2025 Cadillac Escalade vs 2025 Mazda CX-5

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 was often praised for its elegant design, standing out in the small SUV class with its graceful curves. Despite not having a redesign since 2017, its timeless style made it comparable to entry-level luxury SUVs. Inside, the CX-5 offered a blend of traditional and modern elements, with high-quality materials and a user-friendly layout. It favored physical controls over digital, enhancing usability and maintaining a classic feel.

In contrast, the 2025 Cadillac Escalade embodied luxury with its imposing presence and updated design. The new front end aligned it with Cadillac's EVs, featuring vertical headlights and massive 24-inch wheels. Inside, the Escalade boasted a futuristic 55-inch display spanning the dashboard, blending high-tech features with traditional luxury. The interior offered various leather options and curated motifs, making it feel distinct from its GM siblings.

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. Both engines came with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The turbo model accelerated to 60 mph in about 6 seconds, making it one of the quicker options in its class. The CX-5 was known for its sporty handling, though it had a firmer ride quality.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade dropped its diesel option, leaving a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 horsepower and a supercharged version with 682 horsepower for the Escalade-V. All models featured a 10-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive standard and four-wheel drive optional. The Escalade-V had a performance-focused all-wheel drive system. Despite its power, the Escalade's handling was less refined compared to luxury rivals, though it offered impressive ride quality for a body-on-frame vehicle.

The Mazda CX-5's interior was stylish but less spacious than some competitors. It offered 30.8 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 58.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. While practical, it lagged behind rivals like the Honda CR-V in cargo capacity. The CX-5 included useful features like a power liftgate and convenient seatback latches.

The Cadillac Escalade, available in standard and extended lengths, provided ample space. The ESV model offered even more cargo room, with up to 142.8 cubic feet available. It could seat up to eight passengers, with generous legroom and headroom. The Escalade excelled in cargo capacity and towing, with a maximum of 8,100 pounds, though it lacked some towing features found in competitors.

The Mazda CX-5 featured a 10.25-inch infotainment display controlled by a center console dial. It supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless capability in higher trims. While the analog gauges felt dated, a head-up display was standard in upper trims. The audio system ranged from a basic four-speaker setup to a premium 10-speaker Bose system.

The Cadillac Escalade impressed with its 55-inch display, integrating multiple screens for a futuristic feel. It included a 19-speaker AKG audio system, with a 36-speaker upgrade available. The Escalade supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and offered features like an augmented-reality head-up display and night vision. The optional Executive Second Row Package added luxury touches for rear passengers.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 earned high safety ratings, with five stars from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick from IIHS for the 2024 model. It came standard with advanced safety features like forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added features like adaptive headlights and a surround-view camera.

The Cadillac Escalade included standard driver-assist features such as adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. It featured GM's Super Cruise for hands-free driving, though it had some limitations. Current crash-test ratings were unavailable, but the Escalade offered comprehensive safety technology.