Honda CR-V vs Mazda CX-5: Which is the Most Worth Buying in Malaysia?

In the SUV market in Malaysia, many buyers compare the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5 when choosing a car. These two cars are quite close in price and positioning. Today, we will do a detailed comparison from multiple aspects to help you save time on research.

Price and Versions

The OTR price of Honda CR-V in Malaysia is RM 178,200 - 195,900, with a total of 4 versions, including 2026 e:HEV 2.0L 2WD RS (RM 195,900), 2026 1.5T 4WD V (RM 181,900), 2026 e:HEV 2.0L 2WD E (RM 178,200), etc.

The OTR price of Mazda CX-5 in Malaysia is RM 135,469 - 166,760, with a total of 3 versions, including 2025 2.0L AT 35th Anniversary (RM 316,154), 2025 2.0L AT (RM 296,154), 2025 2.0L MT (RM 294,154), etc.

From a price perspective, the starting price of Mazda CX-5 is RM 42,731 cheaper than Honda CR-V. Honestly, in this price range, a difference of a few thousand is actually not significant; the key is to look at overall value for money and long-term usage costs.

Performance and Fuel Economy

Honda CR-V is equipped with a 2.0L 4-cyl, 170 hp. Official fuel consumption 8.0 L/100km.

Mazda CX-5 is equipped with a 1.5L Turbo, 140 hp. Official fuel consumption 7.0 L/100km.

In terms of power, the Honda CR-V's 2.0L 4-cyl has 30 more horsepower than the Mazda CX-5's 1.5L Turbo, offering more confidence in mid-range acceleration, especially when overtaking on highways. However, the Mazda CX-5 might have more friendly fuel consumption, and the difference in daily city commuting will not be significant.

Safety Equipment

Honda CR-V's safety rating is 5★ (ASEAN NCAP), active safety systems include Honda SENSING (ACC, CMBS, LKAS, RDM).

Mazda CX-5's safety rating is 5★ (ASEAN NCAP), active safety systems include.

Both cars have the same safety rating; safety equipment is quite comprehensive within this class. New cars' safety is not poor nowadays, so there is no need to worry too much about this.

Space and Comfort

Honda CR-V body length 4500 mm, trunk 450 L.

Mazda CX-5 body length 4500 mm, trunk 450 L.

The dimensions of both cars are almost the same, with little difference in interior space. Cars of this class are completely sufficient for daily use.

Features and Technology

Honda CR-V adopts FWD drive mode.

Mazda CX-5 adopts FWD drive mode.

Both cars have the same drive mode, both are FWD, so there won't be a significant difference in daily driving experience.

Summary

Overall, Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5 are both quite good models in the Malaysian market. Which one to choose depends mainly on your personal needs and budget. It is recommended to do your homework, compare quotes from several car dealers, and then test drive to make a final decision. Buying a car is a major matter, spending some time doing research will never go wrong.