2024 Ford Bronco vs 2025 Mazda CX-5

The 2024 Ford Bronco embraced a retro design reminiscent of the 1960s, particularly successful in its two-door variant. The Sasquatch Package enhanced its rugged appearance with a suspension lift and 35-inch mud-terrain tires, giving it a wide, purposeful stance. Inside, the Bronco featured an 8-inch digital display and a 12-inch touchscreen, with a dashboard design echoing the original Bronco. Despite its off-road prowess, the interior was more refined than its Jeep Wrangler rival, offering a nearly vertical windshield and effective square side mirrors.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 stood out in the small SUV class with its graceful curves and timeless design, maintaining its appeal since 2017. Its interior boasted high-quality materials and a blend of analog and digital elements, favoring usability over flashy tech. The CX-5's cabin was quieter and more refined, with soft-touch materials and a layout comparable to luxury brands like Acura or Lexus. While it lacked some modern digital features, its design and functionality were well-regarded.

The 2024 Ford Bronco offered a standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine with 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a seven-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic transmission. The optional 2.7-liter V6 delivered 330 hp and 415 lb-ft, while the Raptor model boasted a 3.0-liter V6 with 418 hp and 440 lb-ft. The Bronco's off-road capabilities were enhanced by technologies like Trail Control and Trail Turn Assist. However, its fuel efficiency was a concern, averaging 16.9 mpg during testing.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 featured a base 2.5-liter engine with 187 hp and 186 lb-ft, while the Turbo model increased output to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The Turbo model accelerated quickly, making it one of the faster options in its class. The CX-5's sporty handling and firm ride quality provided confidence on winding roads, though it was slightly less comfortable on rough surfaces.

The 2024 Ford Bronco's interior was spacious, accommodating four adults comfortably in both two-door and four-door models. The four-door variant offered more room than a Jeep Wrangler, with no rollbar obstructing rear passengers. Cargo space varied, with the two-door providing 22.4 cubic feet and the four-door offering up to 83 cubic feet with seats folded. The Bronco's marine-grade vinyl upholstery was durable but less breathable, and its removable roof and doors allowed for a customizable open-air experience.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5's interior design was refined but less spacious than some competitors. It offered 30.8 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 58.1 cubic feet with rear seats folded. While headroom was adequate, rear legroom was less generous compared to rivals like the Honda CR-V. The CX-5 featured practical storage solutions, including cupholders and a deep center armrest bin, with a power liftgate standard on most trims.

The 2024 Ford Bronco came with a 12-inch touchscreen Sync 4 infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay and inconsistent voice recognition were noted. The Bronco Trail App provided access to trail maps, enhancing its off-road appeal.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 featured a 10.25-inch infotainment display controlled via a center console dial. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, with wireless capability in higher trims. While the analog gauges felt dated, a head-up display was standard in midrange trims, projecting essential information onto the windshield.

The 2024 Ford Bronco included standard safety features like forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking. The Mid Package added Ford Co-Pilot360 technologies, enhancing safety with lane-keep assist and blind-spot monitoring. The Bronco received favorable IIHS ratings, except for its headlight performance, and a four-star frontal-impact rating from NHTSA.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 earned five stars in NHTSA crash tests, except for rollover protection. It came standard with advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. Higher trims added adaptive headlights and a surround-view camera. The CX-5's safety systems operated smoothly, with no false alarms during testing.