2025 Hyundai Palisade vs 2025 Mazda CX-5

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade showcased a bold and unmistakable design that set it apart from other SUVs. Its angular and technical look, introduced in the 2023 refresh, replaced the previous chubby-cheeked face, offering a more upscale appearance. Inside, even the base SE trim provided a modern and upscale feel, with premium materials like leather and artificial suede in higher trims. Thoughtful details such as USB ports in seatbacks and smartphone storage pockets added to its appeal, although some control markings were hard to read in daylight.

In contrast, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 was celebrated for its graceful curves and timeless design, maintaining its appeal since the 2017 model year. Its interior featured high-quality materials and a blend of analog and digital elements, favoring usability over flashy tech. While it lacked a large infotainment touchscreen, the physical controls were appreciated for their ease of use. The CX-5's design was likened to entry-level luxury SUVs, offering a refined experience without the need for gimmicks.

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade was powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine, delivering 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission, with optional all-wheel drive. The Palisade's towing capacity reached 5,000 pounds, and it averaged 22 mpg in combined driving. Despite its age, the Palisade offered a smooth and refined driving experience, with a firm ride at lower speeds and a softer feel on highways. The V6 engine was praised for its power and smooth operation, although it fell short of EPA fuel efficiency estimates during testing.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 187 horsepower and a turbocharged version with 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 choices in its class. The CX-5 excelled in handling, providing a sporty and confident drive, though its firmer ride quality was noticeable on rough surfaces. The cabin remained quiet, enhancing comfort on longer journeys.

The Hyundai Palisade featured three rows of seats, accommodating adults comfortably. The Calligraphy trim offered luxurious touches like Nappa leather and massaging front seats. Second-row captain’s chairs provided heating and ventilation, while the third row, also heated, offered reasonable space for adults. The Palisade boasted generous storage solutions and a Smart Liftgate for easy access. Cargo space was ample, with 18 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 86.4 cubic feet with seats folded.

The Mazda CX-5, while refined, offered less interior space compared to some rivals. It provided adequate headroom and legroom, but competitors like the Honda CR-V offered more. Cargo capacity was 30.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 58.1 cubic feet with seats folded. The CX-5 included practical features like a power liftgate and convenient seatback latches for folding seats. Storage for smaller items was moderate, with cupholders and door pockets.

The Hyundai Palisade's technology, though slightly dated, was functional and comprehensive. It featured a 12.3-inch digital driver display and infotainment system, requiring a cable for smartphone connectivity. The system included Bluetooth support, wireless charging, and a Harman Kardon audio system. Voice recognition and navigation were effective, and the Palisade offered a digital rearview mirror and head-up display.

The Mazda CX-5 came with a 10.25-inch infotainment display controlled by a center console dial. The system was intuitive, with logical menus and easy operation. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, with wireless options in higher trims. The CX-5 included a head-up display in Premium Plus trims and a Bose audio system in the Signature model. Remote vehicle monitoring and a Wi-Fi hotspot were also available.

The Hyundai Palisade was equipped with Hyundai SmartSense, offering features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and Highway Driving Assist. Higher trims added advanced features like a surround-view camera and Remote Smart Parking Assist. The Palisade received a Top Safety Pick from IIHS through 2024 but missed the accolade in 2025 due to a Poor rating in a new test. NHTSA awarded it five stars for frontal impact and four stars for rollover resistance.

The Mazda CX-5 earned five stars from NHTSA in most evaluations and a Top Safety Pick from IIHS for the 2024 model. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera, and traffic jam assist. The CX-5's systems operated smoothly without false alarms during testing.