2025 Dodge Durango 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-for-2024 Carbon Turbo trim, featured Zircon Sand paint and exclusive Terracotta leather seats, complemented by black artificial suede inserts and a black headliner. Mazda's choice of colors and gloss-black exterior detailing enhanced the vehicle's aesthetic appeal. The 2024 model also saw improvements in fuel economy for the base engine, the addition of wireless charging, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in several trims.

In contrast, the 2025 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat Premium, equipped with the Silver Bullet special edition package, showcased a more aggressive visual attitude with its satin black hood, unique wheels, dark badges, and black exhaust tips. Inside, the Durango maintained a subdued yet premium feel with dark red Nappa leather seats and a suede headliner. Despite the upscale materials, some plastic surfaces detracted from the overall luxury experience. The Durango's design aimed to balance performance aesthetics with comfort, though it leaned more towards a bold and expressive look.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo offered a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 256 horsepower on premium gas and 227 horsepower on regular gas. The engine produced 320 lb-ft of torque at 2,500 rpm with premium fuel, providing a smooth and steady power delivery. However, its fuel efficiency was less impressive, with an EPA rating of 24 mpg combined and an observed 22.9 mpg during testing. The CX-5's driving dynamics were enhanced by a re-tuned suspension, a stiffer frame, and standard all-wheel drive, offering a sophisticated and confident driving experience.

The 2025 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat boasted a supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi V8 engine, generating an astounding 710 horsepower and 645 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain enabled the SUV to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 180 mph. Despite its impressive performance, the Durango's fuel economy was poor, with an EPA rating of 12/17/13 mpg in city/highway/combined driving. The Durango's handling was supported by a full-time AWD system, adaptive damping suspension, and Brembo performance brakes, making it feel track-ready despite its size and configuration.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 offered a comfortable interior with standard heated front seats and a six-way power-adjustable driver's seat. Leather upholstery was standard on most trims, with premium Nappa leather available on the top-tier model. The CX-5's interior, though snug, provided good support and comfort for four adults, with thoughtful features like rear air conditioning vents and a center armrest with cupholders. Cargo space was limited, with 30 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2025 Dodge Durango excelled in interior space and functionality, offering heated and ventilated front seats with Nappa leather upholstery. The second-row captain's chairs provided comfort and support, though they sat a bit low in the cabin. The Durango's third-row seat was surprisingly spacious, accommodating adults comfortably. Cargo capacity was generous, with 17.2 cubic feet behind the third row, 43.3 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 85.1 cubic feet. The Durango's interior was equipped with numerous storage options and convenience features, enhancing its practicality.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 featured a non-touchscreen infotainment system, relying on traditional switchgear for various controls. While this approach was at odds with modern touchscreen norms, Mazda offered a setting for touchscreen operation of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 10.25-inch display was navigated using a large knob and surrounding buttons, providing a user-friendly experience. Mazda Connected Services offered remote engine starting, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and more, while a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system enhanced the audio experience.

The 2025 Dodge Durango came equipped with a Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a native navigation system. The system supported dual-phone Bluetooth pairing, Alexa compatibility, and wireless smartphone charging. The SRT Hellcat included SRT Performance Pages for tracking performance metrics. The test vehicle featured a 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, delivering excellent sound quality. The voice recognition system worked well, though it required specific commands for optimal performance.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS), including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. 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, though it did not earn a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS in 2024.

The 2025 Dodge Durango's safety features were less impressive, with a limited list of standard ADAS. Upgrades included adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The Durango received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with a concerning three-star rollover resistance rating for AWD models. The IIHS's small overlap frontal-impact test results were also a cause for concern, highlighting the Durango's dated safety engineering.