New Kia Sportage vs New Mazda CX-5: verdict
An update gives us cause to take a fresh look at Mazda’s CX-5 – and find out whether it’s a better buy than talented family SUV rivals such as the all-new Kia Sportage...
Our verdict
The Mazda CX-5 still puts up a good fight after all these years, but despite the recent updates, it can’t beat the Kia Sportage. A lacklustre engine remains the CX-5’s biggest weak point, and while it doesn’t perform badly in any other area, it’s a bit less practical inside and also slightly noisier to travel in. Yes, you get a few more toys with the CX-5, but it will cost more to buy on finance for private buyers and more to run as a company car.
Not only will the Sportage work out cheaper for most people, but it has also incrementally moved the game on, proving to be just as polished with this entry-level engine as the more expensive versions in the range. It takes a narrow but well-deserved victory.
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1st - Kia Sportage
For Stronger performance; quieter cruiser; better ride/handling balance; more practical touches inside and in the boot
Against Almost no options are available; small touchscreen icons can be easy to miss while driving
Recommended options Metallic paint (£650)
What Car? rating 4 stars out of 5
Read our full Kia Sportage review >>
Find Kia Sportage deals >>
2nd - Mazda CX-5
For Sharper steering; plusher interior; lots of standard safety features
Against Lacklustre performance; less comfortable ride; pricier to buy on PCP finance
Recommended options Metallic paint (£580)
What Car? rating 4 stars out of 5
Read our full Mazda CX-5 review >>
Find Mazda CX-5 deals >>
Specifications: Kia Sportage 1.6 T-GDi 2WD 3
Engine 4cyl, 1598cc, turbo, petrol
Peak power 148bhp at 5500rpm
Peak torque 184Ib ft at 1500-4500rpm
Gearbox 6-spd manual
0-60mph 8.9sec
30-70mph 8.7sec
Top speed 113mph
30-0mph 8.6m
70-0mph 44.5m
Noise at 30mph 57.7db
Noise at 70mph 64.5db
Kerb weight NA
Tyre size (std) 235/55 R18
Fuel tank 54 litres
CO2 emissions 154g/km
Specifications: Mazda CX-5 Skyactiv-G 2.0 Sport Black Edition
Engine 4cyl, 1998cc, petrol
Peak power 162bhp at 6000rpm
Peak torque 157Ib ft at
Gearbox 6-spd manual
0-60mph 9.6sec
30-70mph 10.0sec
Top speed 125mph
30-0mph 11.2m
70-0mph 51.2m
Noise at 30mph 58.2db
Noise at 70mph 65.3db
Kerb weight 1620kg
Tyre size (std) 255/15 R19
Fuel tank 56 litres
CO2 emissions 153g/km
Test weather conditions Damp, windy
Cars pictured
Kia Sportage 1.6 T-GDi 2WD 3 with Phantom Black metallic paint (£650)
Mazda CX-5 Skyactiv-G 2.0 Sport Black Editon with Zircon Sand metallic paint (£580)
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