Compact SUVs are among today’s most popular vehicles, and it’s easy to see why. They offer room for five passengers, enhanced ride height that makes it easier to get in and out of and see above traffic, and oodles of practicality, all in a vehicle that’s small enough to slide through traffic and park in a garage. Among the raft of compact SUVs available, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 and 2025 Chevrolet Equinox are two alluring choices.

Here’s how Mazda’s and Chevy’s popular compact SUVs compare.

2025 Mazda CX-5

The Mazda CX-5 has long been known as the athlete among the compact SUV class, and this popular model continues to flaunt its varsity jacket. Even with its base 187-horsepower 4-cylinder engine, the CX-5 is plenty of fun. Opt for the turbocharged version of that engine with up to 256 hp, and that CX-5 becomes downright quick. And the verve goes beyond potent acceleration. The 2025 Mazda CX-5’s driving manners benefit from precise steering, sporty but not jarring suspension, and a certain finesse that is hard to find outside luxury cars. And, of course, it’s all wrapped in a versatile SUV body. With the reintroduction of the S trim, the 2025 Mazda CX-5’s starting price is also attractive: $29,990, including destination fee.

Mazda CX-5 Highlights

Standard AWD: Mazda is among the few automakers that sell every SUV with standard all-wheel drive (AWD). This is a significant benefit in enhancing traction on slick roads and enabling better grip in all driving conditions. In the Equinox, you have to pay $2,000 extra to get all-wheel drive.

Premium interior: For the past several years, Mazda’s interiors have felt a cut above others, and that’s definitely the case in the CX-5. The cabin benefits from excellent build quality and materials that look and feel like they could be in a luxury car.

Turbo engine: Where the Equinox only offers one gasoline powertrain, the Mazda can be had with a potent turbocharged engine that gives the CX-5 significantly more pep to its step. If you’re one to take the long and twisty road home, we recommend the turbo CX-5.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Mazda CX-5 models for sale near you.

2025 Chevrolet Equinox

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox is all-new, and its redesign gives this popular compact SUV a bolder, more rugged design compared to the previous generation. The all-new Chevy Equinox also gets a tech-focused cabin with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. Pricing starts at $29,995, including destination fee.

Chevrolet Equinox Highlights

Dual digital displays: We won’t be surprised if you let out an audible “wow” when stepping into the 2025 Equinox. We did after being welcomed by both an 11-inch digital driver display and an 11.3-inch touchscreen. They are standard and inject the Equinox with a big dose of tech.

Heated front seats and steering wheel: These are two welcome features that you’ll appreciate every cold morning. Even better – and unlike with rivals — these come standard in the 2025 Equinox.

All-wheel drive: Choosing this option not only gives you more all-weather assurance, but it also endows the Equinox with more torque and an 8-speed automatic transmission versus the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) in front-wheel-drive models.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Chevy Equinox models for sale near you.

Similarities

Both of these compact SUVs offer seating for five, stylish looks, and the latest tech and active safety features.

Conclusion

With its revamp for 2025, the Chevrolet Equinox easily eclipses its former self. It has more rugged looks and a far fancier infotainment system than the Mazda.

For its part, the Mazda CX-5 is more powerful, more fun to drive, offers a potent turbo engine, and comes standard with all-wheel drive.

Specifications