Kia Sportage vs Mazda CX 5 Specs, Engine, Interior, Price & Reliability

Today, we’re putting two popular SUVs head-to-head: the 2024 Kia Sportage X-Pro Prestige AWD and the 2024 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium Package AWD. We’ll take a closer look at what each of these vehicles has to offer in terms of engine power, interior comfort, technology features, pricing, and reliability.

Mazda CX 5 Trims/Levels

Kia Sportage Trim Levels

When comparing prices across the 2024 Kia Sportage trims, there’s a wide range of options to fit different budgets. Starting with the LX FWD at $27,190, it offers decent fuel efficiency with 25 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway.

At the higher end, the SX-Prestige AWD trim costs $36,490 but has slightly lower fuel efficiency at 23 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway.

In between, there are various trims with different features and prices, allowing buyers to find the right balance of affordability and specifications.

For example, the EX FWD and EX AWD trims are similar in features but differ in drivetrain options, with the AWD version costing $1,800 more.

Similarly, the SX FWD and SX-Prestige FWD trims share the same drivetrain but have a $2,000 price difference due to additional features in the latter.

Read – Mazda CX 30 vs CX 5 – Dimensions, Interior, Reliability & Price

Kia Sportage vs Mazda CX 5 Specs – Engine & Performance

The Kia Sportage runs on a Regular Unleaded I-4 engine, delivering 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. Its 8-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth driving, suitable for everyday use. While it may not have the highest power, it strikes a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency.

On the other hand, the Mazda CX-5 have an Intercooled Turbo Regular Unleaded I-4 engine, packing more punch with 227 horsepower and an impressive 310 lb-ft of torque. Its 6-speed automatic transmission offers responsive handling and quick acceleration, making it a great choice for those seeking a more spirited driving experience.

In terms of engine performance, the Mazda CX-5 clearly stands out with its turbocharged engine, providing stronger acceleration and power. However, the Kia Sportage offers a reliable and fuel-efficient option for everyday driving.

Read – Mazda CX 9 vs CX 90 Comparison – Dimensions, Specs, Reliability & Price

Interior Dimensions Comparison

In comparing the interior dimensions of the Kia Sportage and the Mazda CX-5, we find some notable differences.

Both vehicles accommodate up to five passengers, but the Mazda CX-5 offers a larger passenger volume at 103.6 cubic feet, whereas the specific volume for the Kia Sportage is not available.

Looking at legroom, the Kia Sportage provides a tad more space for both front and second-row passengers. Front legroom measures 41.4 inches in the Sportage and 41 inches in the CX-5. Meanwhile, second-row legroom in the Sportage is 41.3 inches compared to 39.6 inches in the CX-5.

Overall, while both cars comfortably seat five people, the Kia Sportage offers slightly more legroom, making it a potentially more appealing option for those prioritizing interior space and comfort.

Read – Mazda CX 3 mpg – Specs, Engine, Reliability, Price, Gas Tank & Interior

Fuel Economy: Kia Sportage vs Mazda CX 5

The Kia Sportage has a combined MPG of 26, with 23 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. Meanwhile, the Mazda CX-5 has a combined MPG of 24, with 22 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway.

Overall, the Kia Sportage offers slightly better fuel economy, especially on the highway. However, individual driving habits and conditions can also affect actual fuel efficiency.

Reliability

When it comes to reliability, the warranty coverage can make all the difference in providing assurance to buyers about the durability of their vehicle.

In comparing the Kia Sportage and the Mazda CX-5, it’s clear that Kia offers a more extensive warranty package. The Kia Sportage comes with an impressive 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and an exceptional 10-year/100,000-mile drivetrain warranty.

On the flip side, Mazda’s warranty coverage, while still present, falls short in comparison to Kia. The Mazda CX-5 provides a standard 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile drivetrain warranty.

While these warranties are typical in the industry, they don’t match up to the extended coverage offered by Kia.

This difference in warranty length could sway potential buyers who prioritize long-term reliability and cost-effective ownership.

In summary, the Kia Sportage emerges as the more reliable option thanks to its superior warranty coverage. Kia’s extended warranty periods highlight the brand’s commitment to backing their vehicles and instilling confidence in their durability.

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Cargo Space & Size Comparison

let’s break down the cargo space comparison between the 2024 Mazda CX-5 and the Kia Sportage X-Pro Prestige AWD.

Alright, so when we look at the space behind the second row, the Kia Sportage wins here, offering 39.6 cubic feet compared to the CX-5’s 37.4 inches. This means you’ve got more room to pack stuff in the Sportage without sacrificing passenger space.

Now, in terms of cargo bed height, the Kia Sportage also takes the lead with 33.5 inches compared to the CX-5’s 32.4 inches. So if you’ve got taller items to haul, the Sportage might be the better option for you.

And when we consider the overall cargo space, the Sportage once again comes out on top. It offers a whopping 74.1 cubic feet behind the front row and 39.6 cubic feet behind the second row. In contrast, the CX-5 gives you 59.3 cubic feet behind the front row and 29.1 cubic feet behind the second row.

So, if you need plenty of room to haul stuff around, the Kia Sportage seems like the way to go.

Towing Capacity comparison

So, when you look at towing capabilities between the 2024 Mazda CX-5 and the Kia Sportage, it’s pretty clear that the Mazda has the edge. The CX-5 can haul up to 2000 pounds, which is quite a bit more than the Sportage’s 1653 pounds.

Now, if we get into the nitty-gritty details, both cars have similar specs for things like trailer weight and tongue weight, whether you’re using a dead weight or weight distributing hitch.

But that higher towing capacity of the Mazda means it’s probably better equipped for hauling heavier stuff, like trailers, boats, or small campers.

So, if towing capacity is a big deal for you, the Mazda CX-5 might be the better choice. But, of course, it all depends on what you need to tow and how often you’ll be doing it.

Interior Features Comparison

Common Features:

1. Heated and ventilated front seats
2. Power-adjustable driver seat
3. Dual-zone automatic air conditioning
4. Heated steering wheel
5. Power liftgate
6. Remote keyless entry with push-button start
7. Rear seat versatility
8. Advanced safety features

In terms of features that aren’t common between the Kia Sportage and the Mazda CX-5, each has its own advantages.

The Kia Sportage offers:

• A driver’s seat with more adjustment options, making it easier to find the perfect driving position.
• A versatile rear seat that can be configured in various ways for cargo or passenger needs.
• Interior trim with a sleek Piano Black/Metal-Look design, adding a touch of sophistication to the cabin.

Meanwhile, the Mazda CX-5 includes:

• A 6-way power passenger seat, providing extra comfort for whoever’s riding shotgun.
• A HomeLink Garage Door Transmitter, allowing you to control your garage door without an extra remote.
• A handy Head-Up Display, showing important info right in your line of sight while driving.

Safety & Reliability Comparison: Kia Sportage vs Mazda CX 5

When comparing safety and reliability features between the Mazda CX-5 and the Kia Sportage, both vehicles offer a range of advanced technologies and assurances.

The Mazda CX-5 comes equipped with:

• Traffic Jam Assist (TJA) for enhanced driving assistance in congested traffic conditions.
• Advanced Smart City Brake Support and Smart City Brake Support Rear (SCBS-R) for collision mitigation.
• A comprehensive warranty package covering 3 years/36,000 miles for basic coverage, 5 years/60,000 miles for drivetrain, and unlimited corrosion protection.

On the other hand, the Kia Sportage offers:

• Driver Monitoring Alert for additional driver safety monitoring.
• Parking Collision Avoidance-Assist and Front and Rear Parking Sensors for improved parking safety.
• An extended warranty with coverage for 5 years/60,000 miles for basic, 10 years/100,000 miles for drivetrain, and 5 years/100,000 miles for corrosion protection.

Both vehicles share many standard safety features, including Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ABS, traction control, airbags, and rear child safety locks.

In terms of reliability, the Kia Sportage boasts longer drivetrain and corrosion warranties, providing added peace of mind for owners. However, the Mazda CX-5 offers Traffic Jam Assist and a comprehensive roadside assistance program.

Read – Mazda CX-5 vs CX-50 2024 Dimensions, Price, Cargo Space & Reviews

Entertainment System Comparison

When comparing Kia Sportage vs Mazda CX 5 we can not ignore entertainment features between the Mazda CX-5 and the Kia Sportage:

The Mazda CX-5 offers:

• AM/FM/HD Audio System with a 10.25″ full-color center display featuring touch screen functionality.
• Bose 10-speaker audio sound system with Centerpoint and AudioPilot for immersive audio experience.
• Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio capability for seamless connectivity.
• SiriusXM satellite radio with a 3-month trial subscription.
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wireless integration for smartphone connectivity.
• Turn-By-Turn Navigation Directions for easy navigation assistance.

On the other hand, the Kia Sportage features:

• AM/FM/HD Premium Audio System with a 12.3″ touchscreen with navigation for an enhanced multimedia experience.
• HALOsonic harman/kardon sound system with 8 speakers and 400W output for exceptional audio quality.
• Kia Connect and real-time traffic display for advanced connectivity and navigation assistance.
• Steering wheel-mounted audio controls for convenient operation.
• Bluetooth phone and streaming audio for hands-free communication and entertainment.

Both vehicles come with integrated roof antennas and multiple LCD monitors in the front.

However, the Mazda CX-5 offers Pandora, Radio Broadcast Data System Program Information, SMS Text Msg Audio Delivery & Reply, and Infotainment System Voice Command features, which are not explicitly mentioned for the Kia Sportage.

Conclusion

In my view, the Mazda CX-5 comes across as the stronger contender in this comparison against the Kia Sportage.

It has better engine performance, a more spacious cargo area, and advanced entertainment features. Plus, its safety features add an extra layer of assurance.

Overall, I’d recommend the Mazda CX-5 for those looking for a reliable and well-equipped SUV.

Frequently Asked Questions