GMC Terrain vs Mazda CX-5

The compact crossover segment, the industry’s best-selling, offers a practical solution for many families seeking a balance between space, utility, efficiency, and cost. It’s no wonder that almost every brand’s compact crossover is its best-selling model. So, if you opt for one of the best-selling models in this segment, you are in good company. However, as Kelley Blue Book (KBB.com) points out, there are “a few alternatives to the sales leaders that are just as good. Two of which include the 2024 Mazda CX-5 and 2024 GMC Terrain.” This Valley GMC post follows KBB.com’s comparison of these two alternative choices.

The designs of the CX-5 and Terrain have been around for a while, but they still have an attractive, contemporary look. Both models reflect their brand’s specialty, with the CX-5 taking its styling cues from Mazda’s passenger cars, while the Terrain more resembles GMC’s trucks and large SUVs.

Both models are very close in size. The Terrain has a longer wheelbase by about an inch, along with two more inches in length, but most of the interior stats are within an inch of each other. Cargo space is effectively the same with the rear seatbacks up (29.1 vs. 29.6 cubic feet), though the Terrain pulls further ahead when the seatbacks are lowered, with 63.3 cubic feet compared to 59.3 for the Mazda.

The power of each model’s standard engine is also close, though they get there very differently. The CX-5 takes the conventional approach with a relatively large 2.5-liter normally aspirated inline-4 engine producing 187 hp at 6,000 rpm and peak torque of 185 lb-ft at 4,000 rpm. The power is managed by a 6-speed automatic and is sent to all four wheels as AWD is standard. By contrast, the Terrain is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-4 with 175 hp at 5,800 rpm and 203 lb-ft at 3,600 rpm. So, Terrain falls a bit short in peak horsepower but more than makes up for it in peak torque. 

The Terrain features a 9-speed automatic transmission and a choice of FWD or AWD on the bottom two models and standard AWD on the AT4 and Denali models. On paper, the stats suggest greater efficiency for the Terrain. But EPA city/highway /combined estimates of 23/28/25 for FWD models are bested by 26/31/28 for the CX-5. The CX-5 is available with a turbocharged version of the 2.5-liter engine with 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque.

KBB.com pointed to the Terrain’s availability of active noise cancellation as providing a more serene cabin experience than the CX-5. The CX-5 also has no counterpart to the off-road-focused Terrain AT4 model, which has all-terrain tires, an off-road drive mode, and hill descent control. Both models have an overall 5-star rating from the NHTSA. 

KBB.com pointed to no real winner in their comparison, stating: “If you want an SUV that looks tough on the outside while offering comfort and luxury on the inside, the GMC Terrain is your choice. However, if you want something fun to drive on flat surfaces, the Mazda CX-5 may be the best option here.” In either case, if you are looking for a compact crossover, you should shop the GMC Terrain, and the place to do that in the general Auburn, WA area is at Valley GMC.