2025 BMW X3 vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its familiar design from the second-generation model introduced in 2017, maintaining a modern and appealing look. The test vehicle, a new Carbon Turbo trim, featured Zircon Sand paint and exclusive Terracotta leather seats, complemented by gloss-black exterior detailing. Mazda also introduced improvements such as enhanced fuel economy for the base engine, wireless charging, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in several trims. The CX-5 lineup offered a range of trims with prices starting at $29,300, plus a destination charge, and the Turbo models ranged from $37,000 to $40,600. The interior upgrades over the years resulted in an upscale crossover SUV at a mainstream price.

The redesigned 2025 BMW X3 presented a seductive appearance with its athletic proportions, long hood, and expressive 21-inch wheels. The test model showcased Arctic Race Blue paint, Calm Beige upholstery, and Veganza artificial leather, which mimicked real leather. The cabin featured quality materials, though some plastic elements revealed the X3's price point. The X3 was available in 30 xDrive and M50 xDrive models, with base prices ranging from $51,125 to $65,875, including destination. The test vehicle, equipped with various option packages, had an MSRP of $60,875. Despite some interior material shortcomings, the X3 was considered a good value compared to its rivals.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo delivered 256 hp with premium gas and 227 hp with regular gas, with torque figures of 320 lb-ft and 310 lb-ft, respectively. The powertrain was more rewarding with a gradual acceleration approach, and the CX-5's fuel economy was rated at 24 mpg combined, though observed at 22.9 mpg. The CX-5 offered excellent outward visibility and a sophisticated driving experience, thanks to suspension retuning, a stiffer frame, and standard all-wheel drive. It handled well on various terrains, with a ground clearance of 7.9 inches and a towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds.

The 2025 BMW X3 30 xDrive featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, achieving a zero-to-60 mph time of six seconds. The engine's power curve and the eight-speed automatic transmission contributed to its performance. The X3 also included a 48-volt mild-hybrid system for improved responsiveness. The M50 xDrive variant offered a more powerful engine with 393 hp and 428 lb-ft of torque, reaching 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The test vehicle's M Sport package and performance tires provided a dynamic driving experience, though the ride quality was firm. The X3's fuel economy was observed at 24.2 mpg, slightly below the EPA rating of 29 mpg combined.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 featured comfortable heated front seats with power adjustment for the driver and manual height adjustment for passengers. Leather upholstery was standard on most trims, with premium Nappa leather on the top-tier model. The CX-5's interior was snug but comfortable for four adults, with supportive rear seats and thoughtful design elements. The cargo area offered 30 cubic feet of space, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2025 BMW X3 provided a spacious interior with a power-adjustable driver's seat offering a sports car-like view. The dashboard featured a BMW Curved Display with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen. The front seats were comfortable, with power adjustment and heating, while the rear seats were less comfortable for taller passengers. The cargo area measured 31.5 cubic feet, with additional storage under the load floor and a 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat for versatility.

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 using a center console knob, with quick access buttons for essential functions. Mazda Connected Services offered remote engine starting, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and more. The Carbon Turbo trim included a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system, enhancing the SUV's premium feel.

The 2025 BMW X3 featured the BMW Curved Display with iDrive 9 software, offering a Quick Select user experience. However, creating profiles and accessing BMW Digital Services proved challenging during testing. The system occasionally froze, and the default Guest profile lacked access to certain features. Despite these issues, the navigation system and wireless Apple CarPlay worked well. The test vehicle's infotainment experience was marred by technical difficulties, though these may have been specific to the test vehicle.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 came equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS), including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered additional safety features like adaptive headlights and a driver monitoring system. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating.

The 2025 BMW X3's driver assistance features were more rewarding than its infotainment system. The standard Active Driving Assistant suite included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The Premium Package added adaptive cruise control and Parking Assistant Plus, while the Driving Assistant Professional Package offered hands-free Traffic Jam Assistant and other advanced features. The X3 earned a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four-star ratings for frontal-impact crash tests.