2025 Jeep Wrangler vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its classic design from the second-generation model introduced in 2017, maintaining a modern and appealing look. The new Carbon Turbo trim featured Zircon Sand paint and exclusive Terracotta leather seats, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. Mazda also introduced improvements such as better 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 two engine options: a 187-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a 256-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter four, both with standard AWD. Prices ranged from $29,300 to $40,600, plus destination charges.

In contrast, the 2025 Jeep Wrangler Sport S, encountered during a rental experience in Hawaii, was less about aesthetics and more about functionality. The black-on-black color scheme was not ideal for the tropical climate, but the Wrangler's design remained true to its rugged roots. The Wrangler offered various trims, including the powerful Rubicon 392 with a 470-hp V8 engine. The Sport S model, priced at $49,175, included options like a black hardtop and a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Despite its high price, the Wrangler's interior was basic, emphasizing function over form, with a focus on off-road capability and American freedom.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo delivered 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium gas, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular gas. The powertrain was more rewarding with a steady acceleration approach, though it wasn't particularly fuel-efficient, achieving 22.9 mpg in testing. The CX-5's tall and narrow feel provided excellent visibility, and its re-tuned suspension and standard AWD offered a smooth and responsive ride. The G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced cornering, and the CX-5 handled well on various terrains, with a towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds.

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler offered a choice between a 3.6-liter V6 engine with a manual transmission and a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an automatic transmission, producing 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The turbocharged engine was more fuel-efficient, with an EPA rating of 21 mpg combined. The Wrangler excelled in off-road conditions, with standard four-wheel drive, high ground clearance, and good approach and departure angles. However, its ride was rough, and the steering felt disconnected, especially at higher speeds. The Wrangler's rollover resistance rating was a concern, but its off-road capabilities remained impressive.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 offered comfortable and supportive heated front seats, with leather upholstery standard on most trims. The interior, though snug, was well-designed and elevated the CX-5 above many mass-market rivals. Rear passengers enjoyed good support and amenities like air conditioning vents and a center armrest. The CX-5 provided 30 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler's high ground clearance and narrow door openings made entry and exit challenging. The Sport S trim featured comfortable cloth upholstery and optional heated front seats. Rear-seat legroom was adequate, but taller passengers needed to be cautious of the front seatback hooks. Storage space was limited, with small bins and cupholders. The Wrangler's cargo area offered 31.7 cubic feet of space, expandable to 72.4 cubic feet, but accessing it required maneuvering the tailgate and rear window.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 featured a non-touchscreen infotainment system with traditional controls, though it allowed touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 10.25-inch display was navigated using a console knob, and Mazda Connected Services offered remote engine starting and other features. A 10-speaker Bose sound system was standard in the Carbon Turbo trim.

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler's Uconnect 5 infotainment system included a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an optional Alpine sound system. The Convenience Group added a 7-inch digital display and remote engine starting. The Wrangler offered Jeep Connect services, including a Wi-Fi hotspot and off-road navigation capabilities.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 came equipped with a comprehensive suite of ADAS, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. 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 Jeep Wrangler added side curtain airbags as standard, with optional ADAS like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Forward collision warning was available on higher trims. The Wrangler received a four-star frontal-impact rating and a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA. The IIHS rated it Good for side-impact protection but Marginal for small overlap frontal-impact tests.