If fuel cost matters most
Mazda CX-5 with up to 38 MPG combined.
Side-by-side verified model comparison
Mazda CX-5 vs Ford Explorer
Mazda CX-5 and Ford Explorer answer the same shopping question from different directions. The CX-5 is more efficient on verified EPA data, while the Explorer reaches the higher power peak. Use the table below to decide whether your priority is fuel cost, safety, size or outright output.
At a glance
| Metric | Mazda CX-5 | Ford Explorer |
|---|---|---|
| Production coverage | 2012 - present | 1990 - present |
| Verified generations | 2 | 2 |
| Peak power | 194 hp | 400 hp |
| Best EPA combined | 38 MPG | 25 MPG |
| Latest NHTSA overall | 5★ | NR |
| Open recalls (2017/2020) | 1 | 33 |
| Latest dimensions | 4550 × 1840 × 1675 mm | 5049 × 2004 × 1775 mm |
| Average curb weight | 1622 kg (3576 lbs) | 2117 kg (4667 lbs) |
| Fuel types | Petrol, Diesel | Petrol, Hybrid |
If power matters most
Ford Explorer with a verified peak of 400 hp.
If safety is the filter
The available data is incomplete, so use the side-by-side table rather than a one-line verdict.
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Head-to-Head: Base Model Specifications
A detailed side-by-side comparison of the entry-level powertrain for the newest verified generation of each model. This shows exactly what you get before adding options or stepping up to premium trims.
| Specification | Mazda CX-5CX-5 II 2.0 SKYACTIV-G | Ford ExplorerExplorer VI (U625) 2.3L EcoBoost AWD |
|---|---|---|
| Engine & Performance | ||
| Engine Type | Petrol | Petrol |
| Cylinders / Configuration | I4 | I4 |
| Displacement | 2.0L (1998 cc) | 2.3L (2261 cc) |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | Turbocharged |
| Horsepower | 165 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 420 Nm |
| 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) | 9.1 s | 6.0 s |
| Top Speed | 193 km/h | 200 km/h |
| Transmission & Drivetrain | ||
| Transmission | Automatic | 10-Speed Automatic |
| Gears | 6 | — |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy & Range | ||
| City MPG (EPA) | 28.0 MPG | 20.0 MPG |
| Highway MPG (EPA) | 37.0 MPG | 27.0 MPG |
| Combined MPG (EPA) | 32.0 MPG | 23.0 MPG |
| Electric Range | — | — |
| Battery Capacity | — | — |
| CO₂ Emissions | 148 g/km | — |
| Dimensions & Utility | ||
| Length | 4550 mm | 5049 mm |
| Width | 1840 mm | 2004 mm |
| Height | 1675 mm | 1775 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm | 3025 mm |
| Curb Weight | 1505 kg | 1970 kg |
| Doors / Seats | 4 / 5 | 5 / 7 |
What search winners do that generic comparisons don’t
The top-ranking comparison pages win because they answer an explicit buying job: which one is more efficient, which one is safer, which one is larger, which one has the broader powertrain range. Pages that only dump two brochures side by side rarely hold clicks.
This comparison uses the newest verified generation of each model as the headline lens, then routes you into the exact generation sheets for the trim-level details. That is more durable than comparing incentives or dealer inventory, and more trustworthy than hiding missing data behind a made-up score.
Questions buyers ask
Which is more fuel-efficient, the CX-5 or the Explorer?
Mazda CX-5 wins on verified EPA combined economy at up to 38 MPG, versus 25 MPG for the Ford Explorer.
Which has more horsepower, the CX-5 or the Explorer?
Ford Explorer reaches the higher verified peak at 400 hp, compared with 194 hp for the Mazda CX-5.
Which is safer: CX-5 or Explorer?
Mazda CX-5 has a latest recorded NHTSA overall rating of 5★; Ford Explorer has not rated. Cross-check the frontal, side and rollover rows rather than using one headline number alone.
Is this a trim-by-trim comparison?
This page compares the newest verified generation of each model family. For year-specific engines, dimensions and trim tables, open the linked generation pages for each side.