38 MPG BATTLE! -- 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid vs. 2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid: Comparison

[@CarConfections]

Are you looking to buy a Mazda CX-50, Honda CR-V or any new vehicle? Go to carconfections.com/new-car-quotes to get the BEST price and access to invoice pricing information!

[@ralph833]

Wife owns the CRV Hybrid. I own the CX50. Hands down, CRV feels as if it’s carved from a single piece of steel. Solid. CX50 is not a slouch, but there is a difference. But driving dynamics goes to Mazda, no question. No loser.

[@FunAtDisney]

Nice to hear that from someone who has hands-on experience with both!

[@j.malone1293]

Good perspective. I have a CRV Touring the last 6 yrs and have loved it. As we rotate our older Venza out soon, I was really looking hard at the CX50 hybrid as I didn't expect to own 2 CRVs at once. The poorer reliability and resale has me scratching my head, tho. I did like the simulated shifts in the CRV, but like the creature comforts that Mazda brings at these high trim levels.

[@Iamallwaysright1]

​@j.malone1293 the reliability score is BS. The drivetrain is Toyota for the hybrid, and they completely ignored thr fact.

[@thelablab]

Same here. Wife has a Hybrid Sport Touring CRV and I have a TPP 50. The build quality of the CRV > 50 in almost every aspect. While I love the looks/drivability of the 50 if I had to choose 1 it would be the 50.

[@Iamallwaysright1]

@thelablab interesting, can you elaborate what makes the crv superior in build quality? The Mazda's materials seem pretty good to me so far, and there is no creaking or any weird noises, so in my books it's good, but maybe I haven't owned the car long enough to understand :o

[@StayGold_MrsE]

I test drove both vehicles and I chose the 25 Honda CRV Hybrid Sport Touring for the exact reasons you seem to have come up with in this video. I figured all those things out on my own and while a part of me was saying I really wanted some luxury because I came from a 17 BMW 530i, I cannot reconcile the rough drive quality in that Mazda over the smooth drive quality in the Honda just for a little luxury. So I gave up the panoramic roof for a really comfortable and smooth, yet dynamic ride quality and I am so happy I did... I love my CRV. Gas mileage is fantastic too.

[@peter9810]

You guys are awesome!!! This is how you do a comparison video for 2 vehicles!!! The split screen really helps you see to compare everything while you're watching! By far the best comparison car review on KZbin!!! Keep up the amazing work guys! I really love and appreciate it!!!!

[@CarConfections]

Thanks so much! We appreciate it!

[@neil514]

Always like your comparisons! The Canadian version of the CX-50 that maps directly to the Premium Plus Hybrid you used (the GT Hybrid) does in fact have a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, and the 360 camera (that is only available in the Turbo models in the US), lane keep assist too... Features that were for some reason not put into the US version (weird eh?).

[@tycanuck]

Yup! The US version is neutered. That's why I trust Canadian car reviewers when making a comparison.

[@dominickwilliams3504]

I cancelled my order for USA version CX50 hybrid because it's been neutered of amenities. Mazda USA management should be fired. Fail!

[@drew8441]

Love the comparison!

[@SpringfieldTony]

ya know how much I love the comparison vids. this one is very good. I dig Mazda all day long, but part of me wants the Honda. thanks for the great upload.

[@terrymorris8617]

Drew and Mason video editing on this is spot on! I hope you hear this, it’s your edit and imagination that makes the video so enjoyable. Many thanks Terry

[@CarConfections]

Thanks, Terry!

[@josephpistorio-sc9rf]

Love these comparison vids. Based on my preferences, I score the Mazda 2 points lower than they did. CRV wins by a mile in my book.

[@baybae92]

I wanted the CR-V Hybrid hella bad, but the IIHS crash test rating for rear passengers was absolutely atrocious. Ended up going with a CX-5 Turbo as I needed a car and the CX-50 Hybrid wasn’t out yet.

[@ayushmalpeddi2793]

I think the mpg between the 2.5l and 2.5T is almost identical

[@arnoldm889]

@@baybae92 Mazdas among the safest brands. But you’ll get constant seatbelt reminders which the iihs likes and rewards unfortunately.

[@ryanfrisby7389]

Excellent comparison!😸

[@arielhanson3912]

Mazda supreme ✌️

[@banzaibid]

I have a 2024 CR-V Sport Touring Hybrid,and I love everything about it. Quality build, quiet, extremely comfortable with a great Bose sound system. Did I mention that it's very, very comfortable?

[@Gopinathk17]

CRV Hybrid nailed few areas like overall build quality, very generous interior space, smooth/quieter ride with excellent sound insulation, back seats are super comfortable, outward visibility is so good etc..but there are many cons as well comparatively.

[@spursdynasty7378]

No spare and a stupid turbo engine in gas model are it’s 2 biggest weaknesses. I’d buy one if it had both !

[@joshuawang5859]

@@spursdynasty7378 And CVT

[@alexameetssiri]

Husband has the all-black CR-V Hybrid Sport Touring, I drive the white CX-50 Hybrid Premium Plus. He works from home, so I have options on what car to take with me to work lol. When it's super cold, I drive the CR-V for the heated steering wheel. I love both cars!

[@FunAtDisney]

Over a year ago as my 202 Pilot EXL lease was ending I test drove both the new Pilot and the Mazda CX-90 PHEV (very nice) - and what this video shows rings true for those as well. I feel as though Mazda is sort of a budget-friendly version of a BMW or Mercedes. More sporty, better handling and a bit more luxury. But the Honda is far more family friendly with a much larger cargo area and interior space. (And that holds true when you compare Honda’s SUVs with the BMW and Mercedes variants too.) Except for the fact that the CR-V does not have ventilated front seats, personally I am going with more usability, comfort and cargo room.

[@TheKingkingg]

Both awesome and happy different

[@tomeisenmenger7048]

While both are AWD, there is a significant difference between the two. The Mazda/Toyota system uses a 3rd electric motor to drive the rear wheels, and that motor can only deliver about 25% of the total torque to the rear. On the other hand, the Honda’s AWD system is mechanical and can deliver up to 50% of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels. In other words, if you live where AWD is a necessity and not a luxury, go with the Honda.

[@davidgonzalez3562]

CRV without doubt.

[@adnotathome]

It’s a great comparison video! The CX-50 uses the same engine and hybrid system as the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. Something to consider.

[@CarConfections]

Thanks!

[@bethebetterguy6214]

The CRV has no real spare tire.

[@ctclardy]

I personally prefer the CR-V hybrid because of its practicality, reliability, and resale value, except for one glaring problem. I absolutely hate black wheels; that is all Honda offers in the CR-V hybrid.

[@CubeAttention]

Racist 😮

[@ctclardy]

@@CubeAttention I'm arguing diversity here.

[@richardmorse5307]

Yes I hate the black wheels as well in the CR V hybrid trims and that is all you can get in Canada. I do feel the Honda CR V is a better choice than the CX-50 hybrid for practical reasons. The Honda has a larger trunk, the second row has more leg and head room. The Honda has a softer ride over the bumps on the road and the seat is not as firm and less uncomfortable on longer drives. This video confirms our decision to go with the CR V hybrid. Thanks for the video!

[@ctclardy]

@@richardmorse5307 You would think that on the higher-trim they would at least offer an alternative. They do have steel wheels on the higher-trim gas model.

[@bryb2644]

@@CubeAttentionsilly rabbit!

[@steverus1336]

Some Honda dealers not only stick to MSRP but add a market adjustment to their price. Not so for Mazda and Mazda will give you some good discounts.

[@farcinue]

I’ve owned four Hondas, but switched to Mazda for my current car. Mazdas are noticeably nicer and sportier, for the same price and reliability. I have the cx50 hybrid on my list for next car. They look sharp, and the option of a Toyota hybrid system is a win for me.

[@davidpinilla5150]

Add a couple points for to Canadian version as it does have heated rear seats, parking sensors, 360 Camera, and heated steering wheel. Cant believe USA Mazda don’t include these I feel like the reliability score is very low but what do I know? Lol

[@SimonLee9772]

Thank you for your comparison review. You didn't show and compare the front passenger seat comfort controls on these two models. WHY not? Do you really like the Mazda/Toyota CVT driving experience? I really dislike how this CVT unwinds like a rubber band with no simulated shifts, and it drones at speed more than the CRV's CVT. You guys have so much driving experience with so many cars. What do you think? I've completely eliminated the RAV4 and the CX-50 because of the transmission. While the CRV's CVT is a pleasure to drive, the US version CRV is missing just too many features... plus, the hybrid model is only available in horrible murdered-out trim. Perhaps we could include the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage in a 4-way comparison. Even the new Hyundai Santa Fe hybrid, while a little bigger, is at the same price point. Sorry, I have a lot of thoughts because I'm currently shopping for a hybrid SUV

[@CarConfections]

Thanks! If you can get past the drone, the eCVT is actually very responsive

[@Chiroman527]

An excellent Car comparative Video, Guys... You touched on the Vital stats in succinct manner. As a 73 YO, retiree, either vehicle would suit my "needs" - a local suburban Troller, for doing local chores, etc., with the occassional longer trips to visit Family. I'm coming out of a lease in Feb 2025 on my 22 Acura MDX Advance which I truly enjoy and LIKE ( I reserve the word Love for People). I can buy the MDX with 21.6K miles on it for $38,400 (including taxes) which is a serious consideration. OR Geet into a lease for another vehicle (both of these are being considered). OR lesae a new 25 MDX A-Spec Advance (lots more Money). If the new 25 RDX A-Spec Advance included Acura's New Touch Screen Info T. system, I would have Gone down That Road (excuse the Pun). The 22 MDX has been Totally Trouble free for over 3 years - and still "winks" at me sitting in my driveway. I am also considering the CX-50 Turbo version and a 25 KIA Sorento 2.5L Turbo (or Hybrid too???)

[@CarConfections]

Thanks!

[@ampo326]

Thats odd, the CRV in asia gets LED turn signals. They look much better than the incandescent bulbs. Those US honda dealerships are cheaping out for sure.

[@mrvang8077]

Yep! Which is why I just never find them appealing. US vehicles are more like a mix bag of chip. That's either a hit or miss the mark by a lot.

[@kennethawesome]

Tough choice, but I would pick the CX-50 hybrid. The interior is more I liking.

[@arnoldm889]

As a mazda owner I think it should be knocked bc of the super aggressive seatbelt reminders. Its fine in usual conditions but if you drop your kids off in the morning you'll have to put the car in park before anyone takes off their seatbelts to get out. A few times I've had to stop the car, turn it off, open the door, then restart the car to get the beeping to stop. Also if someone in the back switches seat or sits in between seats, it'll beep forever or when you put the seatbelt in the empty seat. And finally the app based remote start is terrible, doesn't work at all for me, mazda says they're working on a fix and it won't work until its released. Mazdas are super safe and fun to drive. top safety pick + by iihs. Love the vehicle but it can be annoying.

[@morgantyler6767]

I own a 2024 CRV Hybrid Sport, gas mileage is no where near the EPA rating. During the summer I get 34-35 mpg and winter so far 29.5-30 mpg. Mixed driving, 80% in town and 20% highway. On the highway at 65 it gets 36 mpg.

[@thelablab]

I’m getting mid 40’s minus the winter in North East Ohio where we are in the low 30’s. Almost 2 years 18k miles.

[@fraugger7583]

I love Mazdas, but they have a problem as they trend toward an all SUV stable... that is, if you want a Mazda Mazda, you can't really want an SUV.... that's something hard to overcome. Meanwhile, the CR-V has more or less treaded the same territory for generations. And they didn't want to explain the CR-Vs not-CVT CVT, even though its a work of engineering genius and a big plus in this comparison.

[@jjoutback]

Cx-50 has a 15W wireless charging pad under t h e center console release buttons

[@Tardisius]

I have a 2021 crv...been debating on the Mazda & Honda....The Vision Blocking Info Screen is a Deal Breaker for both...I'm buying a Toyota Crown or Camry...=))

[@elijahsplaytime2540]

I bought the Cx-50

[@davidmenchini9502]

The CX-50 looks great

[@tonyrusso58]

You can get the softer ride quality and the more luxurious interior with the CX-5. But then again, you lose out on the mpg with no hybrid option. Tough choice.

[@DominionAnako-bb7ry]

Beautiful car

[@Thosearemytwocents]

I own a crv - to me its the perfect car - its looks awesome the drive is spectacular not only is the quality inside solid but the design makes sense. Everything is right where it should be really cant go wrong. For me i just couldnt take the cx5/50 because of the design i like the honda too much.

[@deccasupergold]

Destination pricing is increasing every week. It's time it was absorbed by dealers or included in the actual MSRP price.

[@mrvang8077]

Ehhh....hard pass. Not for me. It just doesn't look like a $50 grand vehicle. But more like a 25 grand after taxes and fee. The interior layout I'd give it a solid C plus rating on both of those two model.

[@nevv8581]

Question about the Mazda but could you get the hybrid system serviced at Toyota as well? Is one dealership (Mazda/Toyota) more expensive to service the Mazda?

[@chrisb9478]

Both good, but CRV has NO Spare tire. Bummer

[@tahran5782]

I love the Honda CRV but Honda really do needs to change that small infotainment system and put Google base stand like the new Honda accord plus the new Honda passport Honda has had a opportunity to put a bigger touchscreen in the Honda CRV but they didn't put a bigger touchscreen in the CRV like they did in the Honda accord plus the Honda accord has Google assist built into the screen on like the CRV the smaller 9-in screen you can't get Google base built into the screen like you can in the Honda accord so Honda really do need to step up their game when it comes to technology

[@autonomy_]

Are you allergic to commas

[@arnoldm889]

Noone mentions how toyota warranties hybrid components for 150k, but mazda only goes to 100k.

[@naveenthemachine]

I’ll take the crv in lower trims but the cx50 at the top end w the turbo

[@pasindunimshan3708]

CX50 hands down

[@LEBXLS]

Honda, Toyota , Mazda comme toutes les voitures japonaises sont très fiables, mais je vous conseille vivement d'aller essayer les deux et vous constaterez que la gestion de la transmission à variation continue E-CVT de la Honda est bien fluide et surtout que la grosse différence aussi c'est que il n'y a pas cet effet de tondeuse à gazon qu'on toutes les Toyota ! En effet chez la Honda le fonctionnement resemble à une boite automatique classique.

[@ted101975]

They need to add cooled seats. Toyota has had them for years

[@TheDominic1612]

I choose cx 50

[@jctx62323]

CX-50 all day long!

[@TsaisRealtyGNY]

Cx50 turbo! Honda has higher insurance due to theft!

[@henryrestrepo8214]

Mazda CX-50🤩

[@josephpayton2055]

The CX-50 while nice, the Honda is just a better family vehicle in general. It’s more practical and the resale value on them are great. But the CX-50 stands out as being the more premium option, which is something Mazda does very well. If only they knew how to manage space and luxury at the same time, this would blow Honda sells out the water.

[@DarEyezKnight]

Both is good Japanese Period.

[@oligarchy-usa]

I wouldn't call either of these vehicles "compact", but since we live in a fat/obese nation.... A true compact would be a Mazda3, Civic, Corolla, CX-30, HR-V & Corolla Cross. A true subcompact would be a Mazda CX-3, Yaris Cross, Mazda2, Yaris, & Fit - none of which are sold in the USA.

[@Jcruzer70]

If you want more space get a Honda, if you want better driving dynamics and a more plush interior, get the Mazda.

[@lesliehughes9382]

I have the 2020 CR-V hybrid. I really prefer the push-button shifting instead of having that actual gear shifter. Wonder why they didn't stick with that design? It really opens up the space for me. Thanks for the comparison video!

[@RizHail]

Can you have some sort of child in rear seat getting sick, test or ratings? My child gets sick in rear seat in many cars. I used to also till the age of 28 ☹️.

[@yournightmare9999]

Just buy bicycle if you wanna more mileage

[@Fyahking619]

Mileage may vary on that one. Lol

[@donreinholz8121]

Didn't CRV's have problems with fuel dilution into the crankcase?

[@joecrash1232]

That’s only for Gas version of CR-V, particularly with the 1.5L turbo 4 cylinder engine. That engine is what you are talking about. The CR-V hybrid does not have this engine.

[@joecrash1232]

Also, I want point out that the engine mentioned in the video is at 9:45. This shown you that the CRV hybrid shown in video does not have the 1.5L turbo 4 engine.

[@netdoggydog]

I'd read several owner reviews that commented on how uncomfortably firm those seats in the CX-50 are. I test-drove one for myself and had to agree. Some drivers don't seem to be bothered at all; for others it is literally the single biggest dealbreaker. By comparison the CR-V seats were designed for the "less sporty" of us.

[@MJG70]

forget MPG, Mazda is the most uncomfortable car you can buy! Stiff riding, rock hard seat and small visors.

[@Redhawk24]

RAV4 hybrid gets better mpg. Mine averages 43 mpg.

[@Broxty]

Smaller, cheaply made interior cabin and noisy as all hell.

[@rodneyjoines4557]

The crv is noisy too

[@Redhawk24]

@@Broxtymine isn’t noisy and their sound readings agree

[@Meattemple]

Mazda

[@YaoKunDa]

Just wondering how come you didn't give Honda points for adjustable back-up lines?

[@GreatLook76]

Mitsubishi outlander phev 2025 & Honda Cr-V hybrid please ?????😊

[@biswasshrestha7220]

If you want a family car, go for a CRV, if you want to drive, go for a CX-50.

[@AhuraMzd]

You can get 50k usd with less spec in our country Indonesia , 😁 the crv is better build quality , even the ultra sonic sensors is better in Honda , Mazda so called premium economy build quality is only lip service !

[@ju4121]

F storage 😂😂. Toyota engine and they gave it less points 😮😮

[@kevinW826]

For me it’s easy, the Mazda all the way. The CRV is one of the most stolen vehicles in Canada, whereas the Mazdas are not. And my CX5 is ten years old and still working perfectly. I’m hoping for another ten years out of it before I need another suv.

[@kurtgrundel4045]

I don’t know and find no reference as to how you figure reliability. Mazda as a company beats Honda and Acura on consumer reports. The CX50 hybrid is just that… Mazda body and Toyota powered. We test drove both and it felt like I was plowing along in the Honda, enough to give my wife car sickness. Mazda was flat and stable on my roads.

[@CarConfections]

www.carconfections.com/reliability

[@marcus_313]

Y'all be cheating for toyota and Honda smh

[@kunalaneja2901]

None of them. Hyundai Tucson 2025 Hybrid has way more features and luxury

[@eddiem488]

The Hyundai Tucson is a nice vehicle, and you’re absolutely right about all the features and tech for the price. I just hope they finally fix the issues they seem to keep avoiding. The insane electrical/wiring problems on Hyundai vehicles (including the Tucson) has been an absolute nightmare for a lot of people. Superficially, they’re really nice modern vehicles, but you ask almost any honest mechanic or automotive technician and they’ll tell you that Hyundai often neglects the basics and focuses more on designing great vehicles, rather than prioritizing engineering. Granted, most people have little to no issues, but the ones that have problems end up realizing that none of tech and features make up for the lack of long-term reliability.

[@kunalaneja2901]

@ The 2025 model has not even a single negative review on KZbin which has been reviewed by all the top channels including this one.. Also every car manufacturer will have some units with some issues. So its not all perfect for any car company

[@eddiem488]

@@kunalaneja2901 Very true! We’ll definitely have to see how the CR-V and CX-50 hold up over time. The issues I was mentioning were from 2024 and previous years, but yes, the 2025 Tucson is rated really well so far. Hopefully someone does a longer-term review on these vehicles to get a better idea of any potential issues.

[@kunalaneja2901]

@@eddiem488 yea lets see how it holds up..

[@tycanuck]

No one buys a Hyundai for the reliability. They buy one because they're cheap.

[@rodneyjoines4557]

Both electronics are dated compared to other manufacturers