2025 Audi Q5 vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its familiar design from the second-generation model introduced in 2017, with only minor updates. Despite its age, the styling remained modern and appealing, reflecting traditional Mazda aesthetics. The new Carbon Turbo trim, featuring Zircon Sand paint and exclusive Terracotta leather seats, added a fresh touch. Mazda also improved fuel economy for the base engine, removed a previous wheel design, and introduced wireless charging and connectivity options. The CX-5 lineup offered a range of trims with varying features, maintaining a balance of upscale feel and mainstream pricing.

The 2025 Audi Q5 embraced a robust SUV appearance with a large grille, prominent air intakes, and high-mounted headlights. While the exterior design was new, it felt more like an evolution than a complete redesign. The Q5 offered Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige trims, with advanced lighting features and a choice between standard SUV and Sportback body styles. The SQ5 performance variant added sporty elements and larger wheels. Inside, the Q5's design was detailed but somewhat discordant, with high-quality materials and standard leather seating. The SQ5 featured sportier seats and Alcantara trim, though some design choices, like piano-black plastic, were less practical.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo delivered 256 horsepower with premium gas and 227 horsepower with regular gas, offering a rewarding driving experience when driven with a steady foot. However, its fuel efficiency was unimpressive, with a combined rating of 24 mpg. The CX-5's tall and narrow feel provided excellent visibility, and recent suspension and handling improvements made it a sophisticated drive. It offered a quiet ride on highways and lively handling in the city, with off-road capabilities supported by 7.9 inches of ground clearance. The CX-5 could tow up to 2,000 pounds.

The 2025 Audi Q5 featured a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and Quattro AWD. The base model's 2.0-liter turbo-four produced 268 horsepower, while the SQ5's 3.0-liter V6 delivered 362 horsepower. Despite impressive specs, both models experienced turbo lag and rough shifts. The Q5's suspension provided capable handling, with air suspension available on higher trims. While not sporty, the Q5 handled well without excessive body movement. Off-road modes were available, but the Q5 was more suited for dirt roads than technical trails.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 offered comfortable heated front seats with power adjustments for the driver. Leather was standard on most trims, with premium Nappa leather on the top Signature trim. The interior, though snug, was comfortable for four adults, with supportive rear seats and thoughtful design elements. The CX-5 provided 30 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, though less than some competitors.

The 2025 Audi Q5 maintained similar dimensions to the previous model, offering adequate space compared to rivals. It featured a sliding and reclining second-row bench seat and increased cargo space, with 27.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 56.9 cubic feet with seats folded. The Q5 included a power tailgate and heated front seats, with additional features on higher trims. It offered up to 4,400 pounds of towing capacity, surpassing some competitors.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 eschewed touchscreens for traditional controls, though it allowed touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 10.25-inch display was navigated via a console knob, with Mazda Connected Services offering remote features and a premium Bose sound system on select trims.

The 2025 Audi Q5 featured an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.5-inch central touchscreen, with an optional third screen for passengers. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a cooled wireless charging pad. The MMI system, based on Android Automotive OS, was user-friendly, with a built-in voice assistant for some functions. The Q5 also included a head-up display and Dynamic Interaction Light for additional cues.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 came equipped with essential ADAS features, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered additional safety upgrades. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover rating.

The 2025 Audi Q5 included standard driver-assist features like adaptive cruise control, active front assist, and blind spot monitoring. 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.