Honda WR-V vs Mazda CX-5: An Experienced Driver Explains the Difference

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

Price and Variants

Honda WR-V OTR price in Malaysia is RM 89,900 - 107,900, with a total of 4 variants, including 2023 1.5L V (RM 99,900), 2023 1.5L E (RM 95,900), 2023 1.5L S (RM 89,900), etc.

Mazda CX-5 OTR price in Malaysia is RM 135,469 - 166,760, with a total of 3 variants, 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.

Looking at the price, Honda WR-V's starting price is indeed RM 45,569 cheaper than Mazda CX-5. If your budget is limited, Honda's entry-level version can already meet daily needs. But also note, the few thousand cheaper might have trade-offs in features, depends on your specific needs.

Power and Fuel Economy

Honda WR-V comes with a 1.5L 4-cyl, horsepower 105 hp. Official fuel consumption 6.0 L/100km.

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

Regarding power, Mazda CX-5's 1.5L Turbo has 35 more horsepower than Honda WR-V's 1.5L 4-cyl. However, for daily city driving, both cars have enough power, you won't feel underpowered.

Safety Features

Honda WR-V safety rating is 5★ (ASEAN NCAP), active safety systems include Honda SENSING.

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

Both cars have the same safety rating, safety features in this class are quite comprehensive. New cars nowadays have good safety, no need to worry too much about this.

Space and Comfort

Honda WR-V body length 4400 mm, trunk 400 L.

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

Regarding space, Mazda CX-5's body is 100 mm longer than Honda WR-V, offering better seating space. However, Honda WR-V is more flexible for parking in the city, each has trade-offs.

Who is this suitable for

Honda WR-V and Mazda CX-5 are both mainstream choices in the Malaysian market, suitable for family use and daily commuting. If you value brand reputation and resale value more, consider prioritizing the one with better reputation; if you care more about cost-performance ratio and features, choose the one with more configurations. Ultimately, it is recommended to test drive both, personal experience is the most important.

Conclusion

Overall, Honda WR-V and Mazda CX-5 are both very 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 dealerships, and then test drive to make a final decision. Buying a car is a big matter, spending some time doing research will never be wrong.