2025 BMW X3 vs 2025 Mazda CX-5

The 2025 BMW X3 presented a seductive design for an SUV, with its long hood and athletic proportions. The Arctic Race Blue paint and 21-inch wheels added to its allure, while the interior featured quality materials like Veganza artificial leather. However, some plastic elements revealed its price point, particularly in lower cabin areas. Despite this, the X3 was considered a good value, especially with its competitive pricing against rivals like the Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLC.

In contrast, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 maintained its status as one of the most attractive small SUVs, with graceful curves and a design that stood the test of time. Its interior offered a pleasant layout with quality materials, bridging the gap between analog and digital. While it lacked some high-tech features, its usability was praised, with physical controls for essential functions. The CX-5's design was likened to entry-level luxury SUVs, making it feel special compared to competitors.

The 2025 BMW X3 30 xDrive featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in six seconds. Its eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD system contributed to its performance, while a 48-volt mild-hybrid system enhanced responsiveness. The M50 xDrive variant offered a more powerful 3.0-liter engine with 393 hp, reaching 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. Despite a firm ride, the X3 excelled on twisty roads, though fuel economy fell short of expectations.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: a base 2.5-liter engine with 187 hp and a turbocharged version with 256 hp. The turbo model accelerated to 60 mph in about six seconds, providing a confident driving experience. The CX-5's AWD and suspension delivered sporty handling, though the ride was slightly firm. Its quiet cabin and capable performance made it enjoyable, even if it wasn't the fastest in its class.

Inside the BMW X3, the power-adjustable seats and expansive view provided a sports car-like feel. The cabin felt spacious, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen. While front seats were comfortable, rear seats lacked comfort for taller passengers. The cargo area offered 31.5 cubic feet of space, with practical features like a removable cover and additional storage.

The Mazda CX-5's interior scored well for design but lagged in practicality. Rear headroom was adequate, but competitors offered more space. The cargo area held 30.8 cubic feet, expanding to 58.1 cubic feet with seats folded. While not the largest, it was functional, with easy-to-use latches and a power liftgate on higher trims. Storage for smaller items was decent, with cupholders and a center armrest bin.

The BMW X3's iDrive 9 system, with its 12.3-inch display, faced issues during testing, including profile setup problems and screen freezes. Despite these challenges, wireless Apple CarPlay worked flawlessly. The navigation system offered accurate directions, but the overall infotainment experience was frustrating, possibly due to test vehicle issues.

Mazda CX-5's 10.25-inch display, controlled by a center console dial, provided an intuitive experience. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were accessible via touchscreen and dial, with wireless options on higher trims. While analog gauges felt dated, a head-up display on Premium Plus trims improved usability. Audio systems ranged from a basic four-speaker setup to a 10-speaker Bose system on top trims.

The BMW X3 offered a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, including forward collision warning and lane-keeping assist. Optional packages added adaptive cruise control and semi-automated parking. The Traffic Jam Assistant worked well, though it occasionally frustrated other drivers. The X3 earned a four-star NHTSA rating, with some concerns in frontal-impact tests.

The Mazda CX-5 received high safety ratings, with five stars from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick from IIHS. Standard features included forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added adaptive headlights and a surround-view camera. The CX-5's systems operated smoothly, with no false alarms during testing.