Honda CR-V vs Mazda CX-5: Which Should You Buy in Bahrain?

A complete comparison of the ⁦Honda CR-V⁩ VS ⁦Mazda CX-5⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across Bahrain.

⁦Honda CR-V⁩ VS ⁦Mazda CX-5⁩: the verdict

The Honda CR-V emerges as the preferred choice for families and value-conscious buyers, thanks to its standard 7-seat configuration and lower starting price. However, the Mazda CX-5 offers a more engaging driving experience with its conventional automatic transmission and provides clear advantages in measurable cargo space and acceleration figures, appealing to those prioritizing dynamic performance and confirmed utility.
Other Years
20262025202420232022
#1#2
Price Comparison
Starting at9,100 – 12,290 BHD10,950 – 13,800 BHD
Engine & Power
Engine1,500 cc · 4 cyl1,900 – 2,488 cc · 4 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)190 hp152 – 187 hp
Torque (Nm)243 Nm200 – 250 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)—9.2 – 9.8 s
Top Speed (Km/h)200 km/h190 – 192 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)6.8 L/100km6.8 – 6.9 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity57 L56 – 58 L
Gears—6
TransmissionCVTAutomatic
Drive TypeAll Wheel Drive / Front Wheel DriveAll Wheel Drive / Front Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Measurements
L×W×H4.7 m × 1.9 m × 1.7 m4.5 / 4.6 m × 1.8 m × 1.7 m
Wheelbase (meters)2.7 m2.7 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,520 – 1,620 kg1,455 – 1,657 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)—875 – 965 L
Overview
Body StyleSUV CrossoverSUV Crossover
Seating Capacity7 seats5 seats
Doors5 doors4 doors
Features
Key features
12V Socket360 Camera360-Degree Camera360-Degree Camera4WD Rotary Mode SwitchABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive BonnetActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive Brake LightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAirbagsAlloy PedalsAluminum WheelsAmbient LightingAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAUXAUX InputBA (Brake Assist)BluetoothBody Colored GrilleBody Colored MirrorsBonnet LightBumper Side StepCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesClimate ControlCollision DetectionCompassCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDifferential LockDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDVDEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Door MirrorsElectric Opening and Closing of Luggage DoorElectric SunroofElectronic HandbrakeFabric SeatsFire ExtinguisherFoldable Rear SeatsFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront BrakesGas Shock AbsorberHDMIHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistImmobilizerISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLane Departure WarningLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED TaillightsLegroomLumbar SupportManual ACManual HeadlampsMap Reading LampsMicrophoneMudguardMulti-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeNavigation SystemNight VisionOBD (On-board Diagnostics)Off-Road DampersOff-Road tyresParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower OutletsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower Windows - Front and RearPuddle LampPush Button StartRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BlindsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Lcd screensRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRemote StartRoof RailsRoof SpoilerRun-Flat TyresSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSilver TrimSpare WheelSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTouchscreenTouchscreen SizeTraction ControlTrip ComputerTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVanity MirrorVehicle Stability Control (VSC)Welcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood TrimXenon Headlamps
ABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Adaptive HeadlightsAirbagsAnti theft alarmAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto HeadlampsAUXBluetoothBody Colored Bumper - Front and RearBody Colored MirrorsCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCruise ControlDaytime Running LightsDigital ClockDoor Handles - Body ColoredDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Electric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofFabric SeatsFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear SeatsHalogen HeadlampsHigh Mount Stop LampImmobilizerISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLeather Gear Shift LeverLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelMap Reading LampsMP3Multi-Information DisplayNumber of SpeakersOverhead Console Sunglass HolderParking SensorsPower SteeringPower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPush Button StartRadioRain Sensing WipersRear CameraRear WiperSeat MemorySpare WheelSteering Tilt AdjustmentTonneau CoverTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterUSB PortVanity MirrorWheel SizeWheels - Alloy

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Families

The Honda CR-V is the undisputed winner for families, offering a standard 7-seat capacity that the Mazda CX-5 simply cannot match with its 5-seat layout.

2

Best for Driving Enthusiasts

For those who prioritize a more engaging drive, the Mazda CX-5 with its 6-speed automatic transmission and quicker acceleration figures offers a more dynamic experience than the CR-V's CVT.

3

Best Value for Money

The Honda CR-V offers better initial value, with a starting price of 9,100 BHD, making it a more accessible option compared to the Mazda CX-5's higher entry point.

4

Best for Cargo Space

The Mazda CX-5 provides a clear advantage in cargo utility, boasting a specified trunk capacity of up to 965 liters, whereas the CR-V's capacity is not provided.

Pros & cons

Honda CR-V

Pros

  • Standard 7-seat configuration
  • More accessible starting price (9,100 BHD)
  • Higher peak horsepower (190 hp)
  • Wider and longer exterior dimensions

Cons

  • Trunk capacity not specified
  • Acceleration figures unavailable
  • CVT transmission may not appeal to all drivers
  • Slightly lower peak torque

Mazda CX-5

Pros

  • Generous, specified trunk capacity (up to 965 L)
  • Quicker acceleration (as low as 9.2 seconds)
  • Conventional 6-speed automatic transmission
  • Higher peak torque (250 Nm)

Cons

  • Only offers 5-seat capacity
  • Higher starting price (10,950 BHD)
  • Lower peak horsepower
  • Slightly narrower and shorter overall

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Honda CR-V or Mazda CX-5 better for families in Bahrain?

The Honda CR-V is the clear winner for families. With its standard 7-seat capacity, it provides ample room for larger families, a feature the 5-seat Mazda CX-5 simply cannot offer. If passenger capacity is a priority, the CR-V is your best choice.

Which SUV offers better performance, the Honda CR-V or Mazda CX-5?

The Mazda CX-5 offers better measurable performance. While the CR-V has a higher peak horsepower of 190 hp, the CX-5 provides concrete acceleration figures as low as 9.2 seconds and a conventional 6-speed automatic transmission, which often translates to a more dynamic driving experience. The CR-V's acceleration is not specified.

Which is more affordable, the Honda CR-V or Mazda CX-5?

The Honda CR-V is more affordable, with a starting price of 9,100 BHD. The Mazda CX-5 has a higher entry point, beginning at 10,950 BHD. For buyers prioritizing initial cost savings, the CR-V presents a more budget-friendly option.

Does the Honda CR-V or Mazda CX-5 have more cargo space?

The Mazda CX-5 offers a clear advantage in cargo space. It boasts a specified trunk capacity ranging from 875 to 965 liters. The Honda CR-V's trunk capacity is not specified in the available data, making the CX-5 the more reliable choice for guaranteed luggage volume.

Which has a better transmission, Honda CR-V or Mazda CX-5?

The preference for transmission depends on driving style. The Honda CR-V features a smooth CVT, ideal for efficiency and seamless power delivery in city driving. The Mazda CX-5 comes with a 6-speed automatic transmission, often favored by drivers seeking a more responsive and engaging feel with distinct gear shifts.