In the competitive world of compact SUVs, two standout contenders are the Kia Sportage and the Mazda CX-5.
Both vehicles offer appealing features for different types of drivers, catering to various preferences. This detailed guide examines the key aspects of each SUV, including their engines, performance, driving experience, interior space, design, technology, safety features, target audience, and more.
Whether you’re a cost-conscious first-time buyer, a technology-oriented young professional, a driving enthusiast, or a busy family in need of a dependable and stylish SUV, this comparison provides you with the information to help you make an informed decision and select the vehicle that best suits your needs and preferences.
So, prepare yourself and explore the strengths and unique qualities of the Kia Sportage and Mazda CX-5. Let’s help you find the ideal SUV for your journeys ahead!
Table of Contents
Key Similarities
The Kia Sportage 1.6L PTR and the Mazda CX-5 both stand out in the compact SUV category, presenting an attractive option for diverse motorists.
Below is an overview of some prominent attributes they have in common:
Size and Class
Each one fits neatly into the compact SUV class, striking an excellent equilibrium between compactness and agility, which is perfect for maneuvering through congested streets and fitting into snug parking spots.
They also afford ample space for passengers and cargo, making them apt for daily tasks, weekend trips, or those with small families.
Standard Features
Both models are outfitted with amenities that bolster ease and comfort, encompassing:
Infotainment system with touchscreen display (size and features may vary)
Automatic climate control
Bluetooth connectivity
Cruise control
Power windows and locks
Rearview camera
The Engine
The Kia Sportage 1.6L PTR and the Mazda CX-5 each adopt unique strategies towards engine efficiency and power, presenting their own set of benefits:
Kia Sportage 1.6L PTR
Engine: 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder
Horsepower: 148 hp
Torque: 181 lb-ft
Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
Focus: This motor focuses on optimizing fuel consumption through its reduced size and the addition of a turbocharger. Despite what may appear as modest horsepower, the available torque at lower RPMs ensures nimble performance for regular commuting.
Mazda CX-5
Engine: 2.5L naturally aspirated 4-cylinder
Horsepower: 162 hp (187 hp in turbocharged models)
Torque: 184 lb-ft (250 lb-ft in turbocharged models)
Transmission: 6-speed automatic (turbo models get a 6-speed automatic with manual shift mode)
Focus: The CX-5 champions a more conventional approach to power with its bigger engine and, notably in the turbo variant, increased horsepower. This results in a more dynamic drive and could provide a superior towing capability.
What to chose?
Choosing the right engine depends on your priorities:
Fuel efficiency: Should maximizing fuel efficiency be your main priority, the Kia Sportage and its compact, turbocharged engine could be the more suitable option.
Power and performance: If you value a stronger driving experience, especially for highway trips or occasional towing, the Mazda CX-5, especially the turbocharged version, might be a more suitable option.
Performance & Fuel economy
As mentioned in the engine section, the Kia Sportage 1.6L PTR and Mazda CX-5 present different approaches to performance and fuel efficiency:
Kia Sportage 1.6L PTR
EPA-estimated fuel economy: 25 mpg city / 32 mpg highway / 28 mpg combined (figures may vary slightly depending on trim level)
Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 8.2 seconds (estimated)
Focus: It focuses on fuel efficiency with its smaller turbocharged engine. While acceleration is satisfactory, it emphasizes reduced fuel consumption, making it suitable for city driving and cost-conscious purchasers.
Mazda CX-5
EPA-estimated fuel economy: 25 mpg city / 31 mpg highway / 28 mpg combined (22 mpg city / 27 mpg highway / 25 mpg combined for turbo models)
Focus: Provides a mix of fuel economy and performance. The non-turbo version matches the Sportage in fuel efficiency, with slightly improved acceleration. Opting for the turbocharged engine offers substantially greater power and faster acceleration, albeit at the cost of fuel efficiency.
What to chose?
Choosing the right option depends on your priorities:
Fuel efficiency: If fuel costs are a major concern, the Kia Sportage offers a slight edge with its higher EPA ratings.
Performance: If you value a more engaging driving experience and quicker acceleration, the Mazda CX-5, especially the turbocharged version, is the better choice. However, be prepared for slightly lower fuel economy.
Driving Experience: Comfort, Handling, and Feel
While both the Kia Sportage and Mazda CX-5 provide pleasurable driving experiences, they cater to slightly varied preferences:
Kia Sportage
Handling: Offers comfortable and predictable handling, making it well-suited for everyday commuting and navigating urban environments.
Ride Quality: Leans towards a softer and more comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and road imperfections effectively.
Steering: Feels slightly lighter and less communicative compared to the CX-5, translating to a more relaxed driving experience.
Driving Modes: May offer selectable driving modes like Eco, Sport, and Comfort, allowing you to tailor the driving experience to your preferences.
Mazda CX-5:
Handling: Emphasizes sharper and more responsive handling, providing a more engaging driving experience for those who enjoy a sportier feel.
Ride Quality: Delivers a slightly firmer ride compared to the Sportage, offering a more connected and composed feel on twisty roads, but potentially impacting comfort on rougher surfaces.
Steering: Offers more precise and communicative steering, providing better feedback and a more connected feeling to the road.
Driving Modes: May also offer selectable driving modes similar to the Sportage, allowing you to adjust the driving dynamics to your preference.
What to chose?
Comfort and driving experience: If you value a relaxed and comfortable drive for daily commuting, the softer ride and lighter steering of the Kia Sportage may be more appealing to you.
Engaging and sporty feel: For those who seek a more connected and dynamic driving experience with enhanced handling and steering feedback, the Mazda CX-5 could be a more suitable choice.
Space and Practicality: Cargo, Passengers, and Convenience
Although both the Kia Sportage 1.6L PTR and Mazda CX-5 belong to the compact SUV segment, they provide minor distinctions in terms of space and practical features:
Cargo Space
Kia Sportage: Offers 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 60.1 cubic feet with the seats folded.
Mazda CX-5: Provides 30.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 56.9 cubic feet with the seats folded.
The CX-5 has a slight advantage in cargo space when the seats are folded, but the variance may be minimal for typical daily requirements. Nevertheless, individuals who regularly transport large items or embark on extended road journeys with ample luggage may find the CX-5’s additional space beneficial.
Passenger Space
Both SUVs offer seating for five adults, but with slight variations:
Kia Sportage: Provides good headroom and legroom in the front and rear seats, making it comfortable for most adults on shorter trips. However, taller passengers might find rear legroom slightly cramped on longer journeys.
Mazda CX-5: Offers slightly less headroom and legroom compared to the Sportage, especially in the rear seats. While still adequate for most adults, it might feel slightly more cramped for taller individuals or on extended trips.
Interior Features
Both cars provide a variety of convenient features to improve daily usability:
Storage compartments: Both vehicles come equipped with cupholders, door pockets, and glove compartments, with the Sportage possibly providing a few more storage spaces for smaller items.
Cargo tie-downs: Both offer tie-down points to secure cargo in the trunk.
Rear seat features: Both vehicles offer features such as folding seats and adjustable headrests.
What to chose?
Cargo space: If you frequently transport large items or require maximum cargo capacity, the Mazda CX-5 might be a better choice.
Passenger space: If you prioritize spaciousness and comfort for your passengers, especially on longer trips, the Kia Sportage with its slightly more generous legroom could be preferable.
Convenience features: Both vehicles offer similar features, but the Sportage might have an edge with its additional cubby holes.
Interior Style and Exterior Design: Standing Out or Blending In?
The Kia Sportage and Mazda CX-5 showcase unique design philosophies that cater to diverse aesthetic preferences:
Kia Sportage
Exterior
Embraces a daring and contemporary design featuring sharp lines, a broader stance, and a prominent grille.
This design approach may attract individuals who enjoy a sportier and attention-grabbing look.
Interior
Showcases a driver-focused layout emphasizing technology and user-friendliness.
The interior combines various materials, while higher trim levels may include leather seats and contrasting stitching to enhance the premium ambiance.
Mazda CX-5
Exterior
Embraces a sleek and sophisticated design featuring clean lines, a sculpted body, and an emphasis on elegance.
This style may appeal to individuals who appreciate a mature and timeless aesthetic.
Interior
Showcases a minimalist and driver-centric cockpit that incorporates premium materials and emphasizes ergonomics.
The design places importance on sleek lines and user-friendly controls, evoking a feeling of streamlined sophistication.
What to chose?
Bold and modern: If you prefer a car that stands out from the crowd with a sportier and more contemporary look, the Kia Sportage might be a better choice.
Sleek and sophisticated: If you value a timeless design with a focus on elegance and premium materials, the Mazda CX-5 might be more appealing.
Technology Features: Staying Connected and Informed
Both the Kia Sportage and Mazda CX-5 provide a variety of technology features to improve your driving experience; however, they do have notable distinctions:
Kia Sportage
Infotainment system
An optional dual-screen configuration may include a larger touchscreen for infotainment and a digital driver display, while standard systems come with a single touchscreen.
Connectivity
Offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration.
Available features
Features such as navigation, a premium sound system, wireless phone charging, and a panoramic sunroof may be included, depending on the trim level.
Mazda CX-5
Infotainment system
Comes equipped with a singular touchscreen infotainment system alongside a rotary knob controller.
Connectivity
Offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto similar to the Sportage.
Available features
May feature navigation, a Bose® premium sound system, a head-up display, and a panoramic sunroof (options vary based on trim level).
What to chose?
Large screens and digital displays: If you prioritize a modern and tech-forward experience with larger screens and a digital driver display, the Sportage’s optional dual-screen setup might appeal more.
Ease of use and rotary knob control: If you prefer a system with a rotary knob controller alongside a touchscreen for easier control while driving, the CX-5 might be a better choice.
Safety & Security: Peace of Mind on the Road
Both the Kia Sportage and Mazda CX-5 emphasize safety, providing a wide range of features to ensure the protection of you and your passengers:
Standard Safety Features:
Both vehicles typically come standard with features like:
Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
Electronic stability control (ESC)
Traction control system (TCS)
Airbags (including front, side, and curtain airbags)
Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
Rearview camera
Advanced Safety Features
Both provide a selection of advanced safety features, although their availability may vary depending on the selected trim level. Some frequently offered features include:
Blind spot monitoring
Rear cross-traffic alert
Lane departure warning
Lane keeping assist
Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality
Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
Crash Test Ratings:
Both the Kia Sportage and Mazda CX-5 have earned favorable ratings from independent safety organizations such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Brand Image and Reputation: Perception and Expectations
Kia
Image
Kia has experienced a notable rebranding in the last few years, evolving from a budget-oriented brand to one that now emphasizes style, technology, and value.
Renowned for their contemporary designs, attractive warranties, and competitive pricing.
Reputation
In recent years, Kia has established itself as a brand known for enhanced build quality, reliability, and safety.
It is often considered an attractive option for cost-conscious buyers looking for a stylish vehicle with a wealth of features.
Mazda
Image
Mazda is renowned for its driver-centric approach to driving dynamics and dedication to engaging the driver.
The brand is recognized for its elegant design aesthetics, premium materials, and emphasis on superior handling and performance.
Reputation
Mazda is acknowledged for its captivating driving experience, luxurious touch, and emphasis on safety.
It is frequently considered a slightly more upscale choice than some rivals, providing a harmonious blend of performance, comfort, and value.
Target Audience: Who is the Ideal Driver for Each SUV?
Although both the Kia Sportage and Mazda CX-5 attract a wide range of drivers, they each have a slight advantage in appealing to particular demographics:
Kia Sportage:
Young professionals and families: The blend of style, technology, and affordability in the Sportage could draw in young professionals and families searching for a practical and well-equipped SUV at a reasonable price.
First-time car buyers: The attractive pricing and extensive warranty may appeal to first-time car buyers in search of a dependable and value-driven choice.
Tech-savvy individuals: The inclusion of features such as dual screens and wireless phone charging could appeal to tech-savvy individuals who value a contemporary and connected in-car experience.
Mazda CX-5
Driving enthusiasts: The CX-5’s emphasis on precise handling, engaging driving dynamics, and a premium ambiance may captivate driving enthusiasts who value a connected and enjoyable driving experience.
Empty nesters and active couples: The CX-5’s refined design, cozy interior, and safety focus may appeal to empty nesters and active couples in search of a chic, comfortable, and secure SUV for their travels.
Brand loyalists: Those who already admire Mazda’s reputation for excellence in quality, driving dynamics, and luxurious touch are likely to be attracted to the CX-5.
