2025 Nissan Armada 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 test vehicle, a new Carbon Turbo trim, featured Zircon Sand paint and exclusive Terracotta leather seats, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. Mazda introduced new colors and gloss-black exterior detailing, contributing to the vehicle's sophisticated appearance. The CX-5 lineup offered various trims with improved fuel economy for the base engine, wireless charging, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The interior upgrades over the years resulted in an upscale crossover SUV at a mainstream price, with prices ranging from $29,300 to $40,600, plus destination charges.

The 2025 Nissan Armada showcased a bold design with a high beltline, reminiscent of its luxury counterpart, the Infiniti QX80. The new front fascia and grille, along with C-shaped LED lines, gave it a striking presence. The PRO-4X trim featured rugged elements like skid plates and Lava Red accents, while the Platinum and Platinum Reserve trims offered a more refined look. The Armada's larger size and business-like appearance were complemented by round wheel arches and a fashionable rear lightbar. The interior boasted premium materials, with options for different color combinations and seating configurations, enhancing the overall luxury feel.

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 the powertrain was engaged at a steady rate. Despite its power, the fuel efficiency was unimpressive, with an EPA rating of 24 mpg combined and an observed 22.9 mpg. The CX-5's suspension and handling improvements provided a smooth ride, responsive handling, and excellent outward visibility. It offered a quiet highway experience and lively city handling, with the ability to tackle off-road trails thanks to its 7.9 inches of ground clearance. The towing capacity was limited to 2,000 pounds.

The 2025 Nissan Armada featured a new 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, delivering 425 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. The nine-speed automatic transmission replaced the old seven-speed, and the PRO-4X trim offered exclusive off-road features like an electronic locking rear differential and adaptive electronic air suspension. The Armada's towing capacity reached 8,500 pounds, with standard trailer sway control and other towing aids. On-road, the Armada's electric power steering provided a nice sense of engagement, while the adaptive air suspension enhanced comfort. Off-road, the PRO-4X's suspension and drive modes allowed for impressive capability in challenging conditions.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 offered comfortable and supportive heated front seats, with leather standard on most trims. The interior, though smaller than some competitors, provided a snug yet comfortable space for four adults. The rear seat offered good support and amenities like rear air conditioning vents and a center armrest. The cabin's design and quality elevated it above most mass-market rivals, with good storage space despite somewhat awkward cupholders. The cargo area provided 30 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2025 Nissan Armada introduced a push-button transmission, freeing up center console space for a wireless charging pad. The interior featured Nissan's "Zero Gravity" seats, offering comfort and adjustability. The three-row SUV provided various seating configurations, with captain's chairs available on higher trims. Cargo volume increased across the board, with 20.4 cubic feet behind the third row, 56.3 behind the second, and 97.1 in total. The Armada's headroom and legroom adjustments improved passenger comfort, though it still fell short compared to some American rivals.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 eschewed touchscreens in favor of traditional switchgear, though it allowed touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 10.25-inch display was navigated using a large knob and surrounding buttons, offering a straightforward user experience. Mazda Connected Services provided remote engine starting, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and more. The Carbon Turbo trim featured a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system, enhancing the SUV's premium interior.

The 2025 Nissan Armada came standard with two large screens, offering 12.3-inch displays on lower trims and 14.3-inch on higher trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with six USB-C ports. Google Built-In was available, allowing for native Google Maps integration. A head-up display was optional, and a 12-speaker Klipsch Premium Audio System became standard on higher trims. The Armada's infotainment system provided a comprehensive and user-friendly experience.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 came equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems, 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, though it did not earn the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation for 2024.

The 2025 Nissan Armada featured Nissan's ProPILOT Assist suite, with varying levels of advanced driver-assistance technologies across trims. The most advanced version, ProPILOT Assist 2.1, offered hands-free highway-driving assist technology. Every Armada also came with Nissan Safety Shield 360, providing a range of safety and driver-assistance features. Higher trims included a surround-view camera and Nissan's 3D Around View Monitor, enhancing visibility and safety.