2025 Mazda CX-5 vs. 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander Comparison

The compact SUV segment is the most diverse and competitive out there, with over a dozen competitors from every major automaker. While all the contenders serve a similar purpose, each brings something special to the table. Take the 2025 Mazda CX-5 and the 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander, for instance. Both are compact SUVs that will dutifully serve individual commuters and small families alike, but each has its own X factor.

Here’s how the 2025 Mazda CX-5 and 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander compare.

2025 Mazda CX-5

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 has all the traits shoppers are looking for in a compact SUV, including practicality, value, and efficiency. Yet, its X factor is that the Mazda is also among the most fun-to-drive vehicles in its class. Even with the base 187-horsepower 4-cylinder engine, the CX-5 is more invigorating than you might expect. If you opt for the turbocharged CX-5 with up to 256 hp, this compact SUV becomes just plain quick. The driver in us also loves that Mazda uses a traditional geared transmission versus a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) like that found in the Mitsubishi.

All CX-5 models come with a long list of standard features, including all-wheel drive (AWD) and driver assist features such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. This year, the base S trim returns, which means an even more approachable starting price.

Mazda CX-5 Highlights

Standard all-wheel drive: Mazda is among the few automakers whose lineup of SUVs comes standard with all-wheel drive. The Outlander offers all-wheel drive, but you have to pay extra for it.

Premium design: The CX-5 is a sharp-looking SUV inside and out. Its exterior is curvy and athletic, and Mazda continues to create some of the most vibrant paint colors available. Inside, Mazda’s fine build quality and premium materials make it feel like a more expensive vehicle.

Turbo engine: If you’re buying a Mazda CX-5 for its athletic nature and really want to make the most of its excellent chassis, consider opting for this upgrade engine. It really dials up the fun factor in this compact SUV, especially on high octane.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the CX-5 models for sale near you.

2025 Mitsubishi Outlander

The 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander holds a special place among compact SUVs: It is now the only model with three rows of seats, and the ability to hold up to seven people is standard in every trim. That special trait also makes the Outlander the least-expensive 3-row SUV on sale today. Beyond that x-factor, the Outlander is more noteworthy for 2025 thanks to an update that brings design tweaks and a standard audio system from a famous brand – more on that below. In addition to the standard gas engine, the Outlander is also available as a plug-in hybrid, the Outlander PHEV.

Mitsubishi Outlander Highlights

Yamaha audio: New for 2025, all Outlander SUVs come with a specially tuned audio system by Yamaha. This marks the first Yamaha system in a car sold in the U.S., and our ears are pleased with it.

Seating for seven: Granted, the third-row seats in the Outlander are tiny, but they are nice to have in a pinch. You can leave them folded most of the time, then put them to use in case the kiddos want to bring a couple of friends along.

Stellar warranty: All Mitsubishi vehicles tout a fantastic warranty that includes five years/60,000 miles for basic coverage and 10 years/100,000 miles for the powertrain. Mazda can’t touch those terms.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Outlander models for sale near you.

Similarities

Both of these compact SUVs begin in the low-$30,000s range, come standard with a naturally aspirated (non-turbo) 4-cylinder engine making similar power, and include a solid roster of safety and tech features.

Pricing

The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2025 MAZDA CX-5 vehicles and New 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.

Specifications

	2025 Mazda CX-5	2025 Mitsubishi Outlander
Popular Powertrains
Engine	2.5-liter 4-cylinder	2.5-liter 4-cylinder
Horsepower	187 hp @ 6,000 rpm	181 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque	186 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm	181 lb-ft @ 3,600 rpm
Transmission	6-speed automatic	CVT
Fuel Economy	26 city/30 highway/28 combined mpg	24 city/31 highway/27 combined mpg
Also Available	2.5-liter turbo	AWD; plug-in hybrid
Specs
Basic Warranty	3 years/360,000 miles	5 years/60,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	5 years/60,000 miles	10 years/100,000 miles
NHTSA Overall Safety Rating	5-Star	Not rated
Max Seating Capacity	5	7
Wheelbase	106.2 inches	106.5 inches
Overall Length	180.1 inches	185.8 inches
Width	72.6 inches	74.7 inches
Height	65.4 inches	68.7 inches
Turning Diameter	36.0 feet	36.1 feet
Headroom, Front	39.7 inches	40.6 inches
Headroom, Rear	39.0 inches	39.1 inches
Headroom, 3rd Row	N/A	34.5 inches
Legroom, Front	41.0 inches	41.7 inches
Legroom, Rear	39.6 inches	39.9 inches
Legroom, 3rd Row	N/A	18.7 inches
Shoulder Room, Front	57.1 inches	57.9 inches
Shoulder Room, Rear	54.8 inches	55.9 inches
Shoulder Room, 3rd Row	N/A	51.2 inches
Cargo Volume seats up/down	29.1/59.3 cubic feet	10.9/30.6/64.3 cubic feet

Conclusion

Here’s the rare contest where two seemingly similar rivals have significant differences. If you want a small SUV with the ability to hold more than five passengers, the Mitsubishi Outlander is the automatic choice. We also like its long warranty and good cargo space. If you only need the more traditional 5-passenger setup of compact SUVs, then the Mazda CX-5 makes a highly compelling choice. It comes with all-wheel drive standard, has a lower starting price, offers more trims and a higher-powered turbo engine, and is simply more enjoyable to drive.