2025 Audi Q5 vs 2024 Mazda CX-30

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 was designed to stand out as a crossover, with its distinctive charcoal-colored plastic cladding on the lower body, which some found excessive. Despite this, the CX-30 maintained an appealing aesthetic with its short overhangs, long hood, and sculpted sides. The interior was a highlight, offering a level of style and refinement that rivaled entry-level luxury SUVs. The gauges were clear, the infotainment screen was seamlessly integrated into the dashboard, and the dual-zone climate controls were elegantly designed.

In contrast, the 2025 Audi Q5 embraced a more rugged SUV appearance with a large grille, prominent air intakes, and high-mounted headlights. The design was more evolutionary than revolutionary, maintaining a familiar look despite new styling elements. Inside, the Q5 aimed for distinction with a complex dashboard design and top-notch materials. However, the interior design was somewhat discordant, with mismatched lines and a mix of materials. The SQ5 variant added sporty elements like matte chrome trim and larger wheels, but the seats lacked adequate bolstering for spirited driving.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30, equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivered 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. Despite these impressive figures, the power delivery was smooth rather than immediate, with torque arriving at 2,000 rpm. The six-speed automatic transmission provided flawless shifting, and the standard all-wheel-drive system ensured power was distributed effectively. However, fuel economy was a downside, with an observed 21.3 mpg, and the small fuel tank limited range. The CX-30 excelled in driving dynamics, offering a nimble and connected ride, with excellent visibility and standard safety features enhancing the driving experience.

The 2025 Audi Q5 featured a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive. The base model's 2.0-liter turbo-four produced 268 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, while the SQ5's 3.0-liter V6 offered 362 hp and 406 lb-ft. Despite these numbers, both models experienced turbo lag and rough shifts, detracting from the expected sporty feel. The air suspension provided capable handling, balancing damping and body control, but the steering lacked engagement. The Q5 included Off-Road modes, but it was more suited to dirt roads than challenging trails.

Inside the 2024 Mazda CX-30, quality materials and logical controls were standard. The interior was stylish, with gloss black trim, metallic accents, and exposed stitching. Front seats were comfortable and heated, but rear-seat space was limited. Cargo space was flexible, with 20.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 45.2 cubic feet with them folded, offering practicality for a small SUV.

The 2025 Audi Q5 maintained similar dimensions to its predecessor, with adequate headroom and legroom. The sliding and reclining second-row seat added versatility, and cargo space increased to 27.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 56.9 cubic feet with seats folded. The Q5 offered more cargo space than some rivals, and a power tailgate was standard. Towing capacity was a strong point, with up to 4,400 pounds available.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30's turbocharged models featured a new 10.25-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the screen's distance from the driver was a drawback. Mazda's system relied on a combination of controls, lacking natural voice recognition. All models included a three-year subscription to Mazda Connected Services, with additional features like USB-C ports and a Bose audio system on higher trims.

The 2025 Audi Q5 boasted an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.5-inch central touchscreen, with a 10.9-inch passenger screen on Prestige trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a cooled wireless charging pad. The MMI infotainment system was user-friendly, and a built-in voice assistant handled some functions. The Q5 also featured a head-up display and digital key connectivity, enhancing convenience.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 prioritized safety with new standard features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. It also included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims offered additional features like adaptive headlights and a surround-view camera system. The CX-30 earned top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2025 Audi Q5 came with standard driver-assist features, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning. Premium Plus models added a 360-degree camera system and adaptive cruise assist. Safety ratings were not available at press time, but Audi aimed to match the previous model's five-star NHTSA rating.