Honda ZR-V vs Mazda CX-5

What's the difference?

VS
Honda ZR-V
Honda ZR-V

$37,900 - $54,900

2026 price

Mazda CX-5
Mazda CX-5

$37,240 - $56,150

2026 price

Summary

2026 Honda ZR-V
2026 Mazda CX-5
Safety Rating

Engine Type
Inline 4, 2.0L

Inline 4, 2.5L
Fuel Type
Unleaded Petrol/Electric

Unleaded Petrol
Fuel Efficiency
5.0L/100km (combined)

7.4L/100km (combined)
Seating
5

5
Dislikes
  • No spare wheel
  • Roof-mounted rear centre seatbelt
  • Small touchscreen

  • No hybrid option
  • Engine can feel sluggish
  • No rear charging ports
2026 Honda ZR-V Summary

Honda used to be a big deal in Australia back in the 1990s and early 2000s but I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s moved off your radar in recent years.

The Japanese carmaker has seemingly fallen out of favour in the last few years following its move to an agency retail model which negates haggling on price with dealers.

However, Honda is making a resurgence and it’s putting a heavier focus on hybrid power.

The ZR-V small-to-medium SUV has been updated for 2026 and picks up new, more affordable hybrid trims, among other minor tweaks. Read on to see if this car should be on your shortlist.

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2026 Mazda CX-5 Summary

The new-generation Mazda CX-5 is here, promising to be bigger, better and bolder, with fresh styling, sharper handling and more technology. But in a market where hybrid power is becoming increasingly hard to ignore, has Mazda left the CX-5 at a disadvantage? I’ve spent a week with the Evolve grade to find out for you.

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Deep dive comparison

2026 Honda ZR-V 2026 Mazda CX-5

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