2025 Mazda CX-5 vs 2024 Volvo XC90

The 2024 Volvo XC90 was available in B5, B6, and Recharge T8 models, each offering standard all-wheel drive. The B5 featured a turbocharged mild-hybrid engine, while the B6 added a supercharger for enhanced performance. The Recharge T8, a plug-in hybrid, provided the most power and efficiency, with an estimated 32 miles of electric-only range. Trim levels included Core, Plus, and Ultimate, with prices ranging from $56,000 to $79,600, excluding destination charges. The Recharge T8 Ultimate trim, priced at $89,145, included luxurious features like massaging front seats, a premium audio system, and a trailer hitch. The XC90's exterior boasted a subdued, earthy palette with chrome accents, while the interior, though dated, was rich with materials like wool-blend upholstery and natural wood trim.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 stood out in the small SUV class with its graceful curves and timeless design, despite not being redesigned since 2017. Its interior offered a blend of analog and digital elements, with traditional buttons and knobs for ease of use. While it lacked a large touchscreen, the physical controls made it user-friendly. The cabin featured soft-touch materials and high-quality plastics, reminiscent of older Acura or Lexus models. Though not as spacious as some rivals, the CX-5's design and refinement gave it a more luxurious feel than similarly priced competitors.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 combined a supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with an 18.8-kilowatt-hour battery and a 107-kilowatt electric motor, producing 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. It offered 32 miles of electric-only driving and averaged 27 mpg in hybrid mode. The SUV accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in about five seconds. Charging was convenient, with options to use a standard outlet or a 240-volt outlet for faster charging. The XC90 featured multiple driving modes, including Pure, Power, and Hybrid, with an Off-Road mode providing up to 9.9 inches of ground clearance. However, the XC90's handling was more luxury-oriented, with a firm ride and less thrilling dynamics.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine choices: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 187 horsepower and a turbocharged version with 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. Both engines came with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The base engine reached 60 mph in about eight seconds, while the turbo model did so in six seconds. The CX-5 excelled in sporty handling, with minimal body roll and a firm ride that wasn't harsh. Its quiet cabin reduced fatigue on long drives, making it both entertaining and comfortable.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 featured a well-equipped interior with power-adjustable heated seats, leather upholstery, and a four-zone climate control system. The panoramic glass roof added natural light, and higher trims offered additional comforts like ventilated seats and a heated steering wheel. The XC90 seated seven, with a tight third row but adequate cargo space, offering up to 85.7 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5's interior was stylish but less spacious than some competitors. It provided enough headroom and legroom for adults, though rivals like the Honda CR-V offered more space. The CX-5 had 30.8 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 58.1 cubic feet with rear seats folded. Storage for personal items was moderate, with features like a wireless charging pad in midlevel trims.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch touchscreen with Google Built-in, offering navigation, Google Play, and voice recognition. Apple CarPlay and SiriusXM were standard, with premium audio options available. The system was intuitive, though the digital instrumentation panel could be confusing. A head-up display and surround-view camera were optional.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 came with a 10.25-inch infotainment display controlled by a center console dial. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, with wireless options in higher trims. The system was easy to use, though the analog gauges felt dated. A head-up display was standard in higher trims, and audio options ranged from a basic system to a 10-speaker Bose setup.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 was known for safety, earning five stars from NHTSA in most tests and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS in 2023. It included standard safety features but lacked innovative ADAS. Pilot Assist offered adaptive cruise control and lane-centering but had limitations, including a notable error during testing.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 received five stars from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick from IIHS for 2023. It included standard safety features like forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added features like adaptive headlights and a surround-view camera. The systems performed reliably during testing.