2025 Ford Explorer vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its classic design from 2017, maintaining a modern and appealing look. The new Carbon Turbo trim featured Zircon Sand paint and exclusive Terracotta leather seats, enhancing its stylish appearance. Mazda improved fuel economy for the base engine, added wireless charging, and updated connectivity features. The CX-5 lineup offered a range of trims with prices starting at $29,300, providing an upscale feel at a mainstream price.

In contrast, the 2025 Ford Explorer underwent a front-end redesign, resulting in a wider and more rugged appearance. New LED taillights and wheel designs added to its refreshed look. Interior updates significantly improved the Explorer's ambiance, making it competitive in its segment. Ford reduced the trim levels to four, with prices ranging from $39,755. The ST-Line trim, with its sporty features, was particularly noteworthy during test drives.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo delivered 256 hp with premium gas and 227 hp with regular gas. Its powertrain was more rewarding with gradual acceleration, though fuel efficiency was unimpressive at 24 mpg combined. The CX-5 offered excellent visibility and a smooth ride, thanks to suspension improvements and standard AWD. It handled well on various terrains, with a towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds.

The 2025 Ford Explorer offered two EcoBoost engines: a 300 hp turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder and a 400 hp twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6. All models featured a 10-speed automatic transmission with RWD, and 4WD was optional. The Explorer's turbo four provided quick acceleration, while the V6 offered impressive power and sound. Fuel economy for the four-cylinder averaged 23.8 mpg. The Explorer excelled in handling and comfort, with the ST-Line Street Package enhancing performance.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 featured comfortable heated front seats and a well-designed interior with quality materials. Despite being smaller in its segment, it accommodated four adults comfortably. The rear seat offered good support, and cargo space was 30 cubic feet, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2025 Ford Explorer seated six, with an optional bench seat increasing capacity to seven. The ST-Line trim included heated front seats and a Premium Package with additional features. The second-row captain’s chairs were comfortable, but the third row was less suitable for adults. Cargo space was competitive, with 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 85.8 cubic feet.

Mazda's approach to infotainment in the 2024 CX-5 focused on traditional controls, with a 10.25-inch display offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, though the voice interface could improve. Mazda Connected Services provided remote features and a premium Bose sound system.

The 2025 Ford Explorer introduced the Ford Digital Experience with a 13.2-inch touchscreen and Google Built-in. It offered wireless connectivity, streaming apps, and a 5G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. The system was intuitive, with Google Maps and Assistant enhancing usability. The Explorer featured B&O sound systems, with the Platinum and ST trims offering superior audio quality.

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

The 2025 Ford Explorer included Ford CoPilot 360+ with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist. Higher trims featured BlueCruise for hands-free driving. The Explorer earned five-star side-impact and four-star rollover ratings from NHTSA, with IIHS ratings pending.