2025 Ford Explorer vs 2025 Mazda CX-5

The 2025 Ford Explorer continued its sleek design with a rear-wheel-drive platform, offering balanced proportions and a modern appearance. The refreshed model featured a restyled front end, giving it a wider and more rugged look. New LED taillights and a strip of trim with the SUV’s name added to its appeal. Inside, the Explorer saw significant improvements with competitive materials and design, making it a more attractive option in its segment. Ford streamlined the trim levels to four, ranging from the base Active to the performance-tuned ST, with prices starting at $39,755.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 maintained its reputation as one of the most attractive small SUVs, with graceful curves and a design that stood the test of time. Its interior offered high-quality materials and a layout that balanced traditional and modern elements. While it lacked a large infotainment touchscreen, the physical controls were praised for usability. The CX-5's design was comparable to entry-level luxury SUVs, making it feel more special than some competitors.

The 2025 Ford Explorer offered two EcoBoost engines: a 2.3-liter four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and a 3.0-liter V6 with 400 horsepower. Both engines paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, with optional four-wheel drive. The Explorer's turbo four provided quick acceleration, averaging 23.8 mpg during testing. The ST-Line trim focused on aesthetics, but the optional Street Package added performance features. The Explorer handled well on various terrains, though it wasn't designed for serious off-roading.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 came with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower, while the Turbo model offered 256 horsepower. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The Turbo model accelerated quickly, making it one of the faster options in its class. The CX-5 excelled in handling, offering a sporty driving experience with minimal body roll. Its ride was firm but comfortable, and the cabin remained quiet on longer journeys.

The 2025 Ford Explorer seated six in its standard configuration, with an option for a seven-passenger setup. The ST-Line trim featured comfortable front seats with black artificial leather and cloth inserts. The second-row captain’s chairs were equally comfortable, but the third row was less suitable for adults. Cargo space was competitive, with 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 85.8 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 offered a stylish interior but less practicality compared to some rivals. It provided adequate headroom and legroom, though competitors 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 smaller items was decent, and higher trims included a wireless charging pad.

The 2025 Ford Explorer featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 13.2-inch touchscreen with the Ford Digital Experience. It included Google Built-in, Amazon Alexa, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with a strong Google Maps integration. The Explorer offered B&O sound systems, with the ST-Line having 10 speakers and higher trims boasting 14 speakers.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 had a 10.25-inch infotainment display controlled via a center console dial. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, with wireless capability in higher trims. The system was easy to operate, though the analog gauges felt outdated. The base trim had a four-speaker audio system, while the Signature model featured a 10-speaker Bose system.

The 2025 Ford Explorer came with Ford CoPilot 360+, including adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist. Higher trims added BlueCruise, a hands-free highway driving system. The Explorer earned five-star side-impact and four-star rollover resistance ratings from NHTSA, but IIHS ratings were pending.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 received five stars from NHTSA in most tests and a Top Safety Pick rating from IIHS for the 2024 model. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added advanced features like a surround-view camera and traffic jam assist.