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What Cars Are As Good As Mazda CX-5? 20 Similar Rides Worth Checking Out

If you're in the market for a new car and have your heart set on a Mazda CX-5, you're not alone. This popular crossover SUV has been lauded for its impressive fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and sleek design. However, it's always a good idea to explore other options before making a final decision. With that in mind, we've compiled a list of 20 cars that are as good as the Mazda CX-5, if not better.

In this post, we'll take a closer look at these similar rides and compare them to the CX-5 in terms of performance, safety features, and overall value. Whether you're looking for a sporty ride, a family-friendly SUV, or a hybrid vehicle, we've got you covered. So, buckle up and get ready to discover some amazing cars that might just change your mind about the CX-5.

Are you ready to explore some exciting new options? Let's dive in!

How Mazda CX-5 Stacks Up Against the Competitors

Competitors Last Release Fuel Economy
Mazda CX-5 2022 24 city / 30 highway
Acura MDX 2023 19 city / 26 highway
Audi Q3 2023 23 city / 30 highway
Audi Q5 2023 23 city / 29 highway
Chevrolet Equinox 2023 26 city / 31 highway
Ford Escape 2022 44 city / 37 highway
GMC Terrain 2023 24 city / 29 highway
Honda CR-V 2023 28 city / 34 highway
Honda Element 2011 20 city / 25 highway
Honda Passport 2022 20 city / 25 highway
Hyundai Santa Fe 2023 25 city / 28 highway
Hyundai Santa Fe Sport 2018 21 city / 28 highway
Hyundai Tucson 2022 26 city / 33 highway
Jeep Cherokee 2022 22 city / 31 highway
Jeep Grand Cherokee 2022 19 city / 26 highway
Jeep Patriot 2017 23 city / 30 highway
Jeep Wrangler 2022 17 city / 25 highway
Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 2022 21 city / 24 highway
Kia Sorento 2022 24 city / 29 highway
Kia Sportage 2022 23 city / 30 highway
Mazda CX-50

Acura MDX

Latest Release: 2023
MPG: 19 city / 26 highway

The Acura MDX is a solid choice for those in the market for a luxury SUV. The interior is spacious and comfortable, with plenty of high-tech features to keep drivers and passengers entertained.

The handling is impressive for a vehicle of its size, but some may find the fuel economy to be lacking compared to competitors in its class. Overall, the MDX is a reliable and stylish option for those seeking a luxury SUV.

Ground clearance no data
Number of seats 7
Wheelbase 113.8 in
Curb weight 4271 - 4788 lbs
Towing capacity 3000 - 5000 lbs
Front legroom 41.60 in
Rear legroom 38.50 in
Front headroom 39.00 in
Rear headroom 59.00 in
Rear hip room 58.00 in
Which Acura MDX has the highest ground clearance?

Audi Q3

Latest Release: 2023
MPG: 23 city / 30 highway

The Audi Q3 stands out for its sleek design and advanced technology.

Personally, I love the luxurious feel and smooth ride of this car.

Ground clearance no data
Number of seats 5
Wheelbase 105.5 in
GVWR 5115 - 5126 lbs
Payload 1 lbs
Curb weight 3902 - 3913 lbs
Towing capacity 4400 lbs
Front legroom 40.00 in
Rear legroom 36.10 in
Front headroom 40.00 in
Which Audi Q3 has the highest ground clearance?

Audi Q5

Latest Release: 2023
MPG: 23 city / 29 highway

The key decision-making factors for the Audi Q5 are its luxury features and advanced technology.

The car's performance is highlighted by its all-wheel drive system and smooth handling.

Ground clearance no data
Number of seats 5
Wheelbase 111.0 in
GVWR 5490 lbs
Payload 1 lbs
Curb weight 4079 - 4178 lbs
Towing capacity 4000 - 4400 lbs
Front legroom 40.90 in
Rear legroom 38.00 in
Front headroom 38.00 in, 40.00 in
What does the interior of a Audi Q5 look like?

Chevrolet Equinox

Latest Release: 2023
MPG: 26 city / 31 highway

The Chevrolet Equinox has a fuel economy of 26 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway, which is competitive with other compact SUVs in its class.

It also has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, which is higher than some of its competitors.

Ground clearance 6.9 in
Number of seats 5
Wheelbase 107.3 in
GVWR 4464 - 4630 lbs
Curb weight 3274 - 3512 lbs
Towing capacity 1000 lbs
Front legroom 40.90 in
Rear legroom 39.90 in
Front headroom 40.00 in
Rear headroom 54.00 in
Rear hip room 52.00 in
How long is a Chevrolet Equinox wheelbase?

Ford Escape

Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 44 city / 37 highway

The Ford Escape is a compact SUV with ample cargo space and a comfortable ride.

However, its fuel economy and acceleration are not as impressive as some competitors.

Ground clearance 6.8 - 7.3 in
Number of seats 5
Wheelbase 106.7 in
Curb weight 3298 - 3668 lbs
Towing capacity 1500 - 3500 lbs
Front legroom 42.40 in
Rear legroom 38.90 in, 40.70 in
Front headroom 40.00 in
Rear headroom 55.00 in
Rear hip room 53.00 in
What is the GVWR of a Ford Escape?

GMC Terrain

Latest Release: 2023
MPG: 24 city / 29 highway

The GMC Terrain is a strong contender in the compact SUV market, offering a spacious and comfortable interior, a smooth ride, and a variety of advanced safety features.

While it may not have the same level of fuel efficiency as some of its competitors, its overall performance and value make it a top choice for those in the market for a reliable and practical SUV.

Ground clearance 6.9 - 7.9 in
Number of seats 5
Wheelbase 107.3 in
GVWR 4464 - 4630 lbs
Curb weight 3419 - 3695 lbs
Towing capacity 1000 lbs
Front legroom 40.90 in
Rear legroom 39.70 in
Front headroom 40.00 in
Rear headroom 54.00 in
Rear hip room 52.00 in
What is the max weight a GMC Terrain can tow?

Honda CR-V

Latest Release: 2023
MPG: 28 city / 34 highway

The Honda CR-V is a great choice for families, thanks to its spacious interior and comfortable ride. However, it may not be the best option for those looking for a vehicle with more power and agility.

Despite this, the CR-V still offers plenty of features and amenities to make it a solid choice for many drivers. Its reliability and fuel efficiency are also major selling points.

Ground clearance no data
Number of seats 5
Wheelbase 106.3 in
Curb weight 3497 - 3635 lbs
Towing capacity 1000 lbs
Front legroom 41.30 in
Rear legroom 41.00 in
Front headroom 38.00 in
Rear headroom 56.00 in
Rear hip room 53.00 in
What is the payload capacity of a Honda CR-V?

Honda Element

Latest Release: 2011
MSRP: $19,388
MPG: 20 city / 25 highway

The Honda Element offers a unique and versatile design with its spacious interior and easy-to-clean flooring.

It also boasts impressive reliability and fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for any adventure-seeker.

Ground clearance 6.9 in
Number of seats 4
Luggage volume 25.10 cu.ft.
Wheelbase 101.4 in
GVWR 4450 lbs
Payload 675 lbs
Curb weight 3515 - 3641 lbs
Towing capacity 1500 lbs
Front legroom 41.00 in
Rear legroom 39.10 in
Front headroom 43.30 in
Rear headroom 55.00 in
Rear hip room 47.60 in
Which Honda Element has the highest ground clearance?

Honda Passport

Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 20 city / 25 highway

The Honda Passport is a sleek and stylish SUV that offers a spacious interior and impressive off-road capabilities.

This makes it the perfect vehicle for adventurous families on the go.

Ground clearance no data
Number of seats 5
Wheelbase 111.0 in
Curb weight 4057 - 4262 lbs
Towing capacity 3500 - 5000 lbs
Front legroom 40.90 in
Rear legroom 39.60 in
Front headroom 40.00 in
Rear headroom 59.00 in
Rear hip room 57.00 in
What does the interior of a Honda Passport look like?

Hyundai Santa Fe

Latest Release: 2023
MPG: 25 city / 28 highway

The Hyundai Santa Fe is a solid SUV that offers a comfortable ride and plenty of space for the whole family.

Its sleek design and impressive features make it a great choice for anyone in the market for a reliable and stylish vehicle.

Ground clearance 8.2 in
Number of seats 5
Wheelbase 108.9 in
GVWR 5137 - 5357 lbs
Curb weight 3649 - 4076 lbs
Towing capacity 2000 - 3000 lbs
Front legroom 44.10 in
Rear legroom 41.70 in
Front headroom 40.00 in, 41.00 in
Rear headroom 58.00 in
Rear hip room 56.00 in
How long is a Hyundai Santa Fe wheelbase?

Hyundai Santa Fe Sport

Latest Release: 2018
MPG: 21 city / 28 highway

The Hyundai Santa Fe Sport offers a spacious interior, comfortable ride, and solid fuel economy, making it a great choice for families.

Its safety features, including blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, also make it a secure option.

Ground clearance 7.3 in
Number of seats 5
Wheelbase 106.3 in
GVWR 4872 - 5159 lbs
Payload 1050 - 1260 lbs
Curb weight 3624 - 4107 lbs
Towing capacity 1000 lbs
Front legroom 41.30 in
Rear legroom 39.40 in
Front headroom 40.00 in
Rear headroom 57.00 in
Rear hip room 55.00 in

Hyundai Tucson

Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 26 city / 33 highway

The Hyundai Tucson is a stylish and affordable SUV that offers impressive fuel efficiency and a comfortable ride, making it a top choice for those seeking a practical and versatile vehicle.

Its advanced safety features and excellent warranty also set it apart from its competitors.

Ground clearance 7.1 - 8.3 in
Number of seats 5
Wheelbase 108.5 in
GVWR 4629 - 4761 lbs
Curb weight 3329 - 3651 lbs
Towing capacity 2000 lbs
Front legroom 41.40 in
Rear legroom 41.30 in
Front headroom 38.00 in, 40.00 in
Rear headroom 55.00 in
Rear hip room 54.00 in
What is the GVWR of a Hyundai Tucson?

Jeep Cherokee

Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 22 city / 31 highway

The Jeep Cherokee is a great option if you're looking for a vehicle that can handle off-road adventures. It offers impressive capability and a comfortable ride, making it a popular choice among SUV enthusiasts. However, it's worth noting that the Cherokee's fuel economy isn't as good as some of its competitors in the same class.

If you prioritize off-road performance over fuel efficiency, the Jeep Cherokee is definitely worth considering. It's a well-rounded vehicle that can handle a variety of different terrains and weather conditions, making it a versatile choice for drivers who love to explore. Just be prepared to spend a little extra at the gas pump compared to other SUVs.

Overall, the Jeep Cherokee is a solid choice for anyone who wants a capable and comfortable SUV. Whether you're planning a weekend camping trip or just need a reliable vehicle for everyday use, the Cherokee is a great option to consider. With its combination of off-road prowess and on-road comfort, it's a well-rounded vehicle that can meet the needs of a wide range of drivers.

Ground clearance 8.7 in
Number of seats 5
Wheelbase 106.5 - 107.1 in
GVWR 5050 - 5500 lbs
Payload 1 lbs
Curb weight 3590 - 4250 lbs
Towing capacity 2000 lbs
Front legroom 41.10 in
Rear legroom 40.30 in
Front headroom 38.00 in, 39.00 in
Rear headroom 54.00 in
Rear hip room 50.00 in
What is the max weight a Jeep Cherokee can tow?

Jeep Grand Cherokee

Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 19 city / 26 highway

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a true masterpiece of off-road capability and luxury, with a powerful V8 engine delivering 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, and an impressive towing capacity of up to 7,200 pounds.

Its advanced 4WD system and rugged construction make it a top performer in its class.

Ground clearance 8.4 - 11.3 in
Number of seats 5
Wheelbase 116.7 in
GVWR 6050 lbs
Payload 1 lbs
Curb weight 4238 - 4784 lbs
Towing capacity 7200 lbs
Front legroom 41.30 in
Rear legroom 38.20 in
Front headroom 40.00 in
Rear headroom 57.00 in
Rear hip room 56.00 in
What is the payload capacity of a Jeep Grand Cherokee?

Jeep Patriot

Latest Release: 2017
MPG: 23 city / 30 highway

The Jeep Patriot is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and affordable SUV with decent off-road capabilities,

though its fuel economy may leave something to be desired.

Ground clearance 8.1 in
Number of seats 5
Wheelbase 103.7 in
GVWR 4435 - 4575 lbs
Payload 1300 - 1320 lbs
Curb weight 3136 - 3331 lbs
Towing capacity 2000 lbs
Front legroom 40.60 in
Rear legroom 39.40 in
Front headroom 41.00 in
Rear headroom 52.00 in
Rear hip room 51.00 in
Which Jeep Patriot has the highest ground clearance?

Jeep Wrangler

Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 17 city / 25 highway

The Jeep Wrangler is a beast on and off the road with its 4x4 capabilities and rugged design, but its lack of storage space and fuel efficiency may not be ideal for everyday use.

However, its iconic style and ability to handle any terrain make it a popular choice for adventure seekers and off-road enthusiasts.

If you're looking for a vehicle that can handle the toughest trails and take you on unforgettable adventures, the Jeep Wrangler is definitely worth considering.

Horsepower / Torque 285 hp / 260 lb.ft
Axle ratio 3.5 - 4.1
Towing capacity 3500 lbs
Wheelbase 96.8 in
GVWR 5000 - 5350 lbs
Ground clearance 9.7 - 10.8 in
Curb weight 3948 - 4222 lbs
How much HP does Jeep Wrangler make?

Jeep Wrangler Unlimited

Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 21 city / 24 highway

Now the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, let me tell you something, it's a real beauty. With its rugged exterior and off-road capabilities, it's definitely a contender against other SUVs in the market.

But let's not forget about its iconic design and the fact that it's a Jeep, which automatically puts it in a league of its own.

Horsepower / Torque 470 hp / 470 lb.ft
Axle ratio 3.5 - 4.1
Towing capacity 5500 lbs
Wheelbase 118.4 in
GVWR 5300 - 6100 lbs
Payload 1 lbs
Ground clearance 9.7 - 10.8 in
Curb weight 4167 - 5103 lbs

Kia Sorento

Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 24 city / 29 highway

The Kia Sorento offers a spacious and comfortable ride with excellent fuel efficiency and advanced safety features.

This makes it the perfect family SUV.

Ground clearance 6.9 - 8.2 in
Number of seats 6 - 7
Wheelbase 110.8 in
GVWR 5357 - 5468 lbs
Curb weight 3794 - 4120 lbs
Towing capacity 2000 - 3500 lbs
Front legroom 41.40 in
Rear legroom 41.70 in
Front headroom 40.00 in
Rear headroom 56.00 in
Rear hip room 55.00 in
What does the interior of a Kia Sorento look like?

Kia Sportage

Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 23 city / 30 highway

The Kia Sportage is a stylish and affordable compact SUV that offers a comfortable ride, plenty of features, and impressive fuel economy.

It's a great choice for anyone looking for a practical and reliable daily driver.

Ground clearance 6.4 - 6.8 in
Number of seats 5
Wheelbase 105.1 in
GVWR 4597 - 4872 lbs
Curb weight 3305 - 3765 lbs
Towing capacity 2000 lbs
Front legroom 41.50 in
Rear legroom 38.20 in
Front headroom 38.00 in, 39.00 in
Rear headroom 54.00 in
Rear hip room 51.00 in
How long is a Kia Sportage wheelbase?
Nick Marchenko, PhD

Nick Marchenko, PhD

Industrial Engineer & Automotive Content Specialist

Nick writes in-depth guides on car clubs, engine specs, vehicle ownership, and modifications, combining engineering knowledge with automotive passion.

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