2025 Volvo XC40 Vs. Mazda CX-5 Comparison Guide

If you're shopping for a compact SUV that blends upscale design, modern technology, and everyday practicality, a Volvo XC40 vs. Mazda CX-5 comparison is likely on your radar. Both vehicles bring a lot to the table, but the 2025 Volvo XC40 manages to rise above with its Scandinavian elegance and advanced safety systems, and it caters to drivers who prioritize luxury and innovation. In this guide, the team from Wynne Volvo Cars of Hampton dives into key areas for these rivals.
2025 Volvo XC40 vs. 2025 Mazda CX-5 at a Glance
- The standard B5 powertrain on the Volvo XC40 delivers 247 horsepower, significantly more than the base 187-horsepower engine on the Mazda CX-5.
- The Volvo XC40 features Google built-in services with a 9-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch driver display, while the Mazda CX-5 lacks native Google integration and a less immersive cockpit.
- Drivers will find more standard safety features on the Volvo XC40, along with a longer four-year/50,000-mile warranty1 compared to three-year/36,000-mile coverage1 on the Mazda SUV.
- The Volvo XC40 offers up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity,2 outshining the Mazda CX-5 SUV's 2,000-pound3 limit for greater utility.
- With a shorter and more agile frame, the Volvo XC40 is easier to maneuver and park in tight urban spaces than the longer Mazda CX-5.
Volvo XC40 vs. Mazda CX-5 Specs
The Volvo XC40 impresses with its standard B5 powertrain, boasting a higher output than the standard engine on the Mazda CX-5, with the Volvo XC40 hitting 247 horsepower versus the 187 horsepower on the Mazda model. You can opt for more power on the Mazda CX-5 with the available turbo engine, but that requires purchasing one of the higher trims. Every iteration in our new Volvo XC40 inventory maintains consistent performance, whether you want the entry-level Core or the top-tier Ultra.

Mazda CX-5 vs. Volvo XC40 Towing Capacity
In terms of maxing out your towing abilities, you will want to opt for the Volvo XC40 instead of the Mazda CX-5. The Volvo XC40 achieves a 3,500-pound tow rating when equipped, whereas the Mazda CX-5 comes up short with a maximum 2,000 pounds.3
With 3,500 pounds2 of towing strength at your disposal, you can bring small boats for vacation, camping trailers for weekends at the lake, or certain U-Haul trailers for moving days.
2025 Volvo XC40 Core![]() | vs. | 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S![]() |
---|---|---|
2.0L 4-cyl | Engine | 2.5L 4-cyl |
Yes | Mild Hybrid | No |
247 | Horsepower | 187 |
258 lb-ft | Torque | 186 lb-ft |
AWD | Drivetrain | AWD |
8-speed automatic | Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
3,500 lbs2 | Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs3 |
23 / 30 / 264 | EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | 23 / 29 / 255 |
5 | Seating | 5 |
| Safety Features |
|
| Technology Features |
|
| Comfort & Convenience |
|

Volvo XC40 vs. Mazda CX-5 Interior & Tech
While the Mazda CX-5 features a larger 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, the Volvo XC40 offers more total display area overall. It comes standard with a 9-inch center touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital driver display, providing a more immersive and informative cockpit experience than the Mazda CX-5.
Both the Volvo XC40 and Mazda CX-5 come equipped with Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and Bluetooth® connectivity, offering convenient access to your smartphone features. However, the Volvo XC40 takes it a step further with Google built-in services, seamlessly integrating navigation, voice assistance, along with travel and music apps right at your fingertips.
The Mazda CX-5 does provide solid smartphone integration, but it lacks the advanced, native Google features.
Standard amenities such as wireless charging, a high-performance audio system, a charcoal-tailored steering wheel, and a climate control system equipped with both an air quality sensor and a humidity sensor help the Volvo XC40 continue to stand out.
Volvo XC40 vs. Mazda CX-5 Dimensions & Size
When you think luxury, you think sleek, refined, and classy – and that's exactly what the 2025 Volvo XC40 within our new Volvo inventory showcases in a smaller, more agile frame. The bulkier Mazda CX-5 measures 180.1 inches in length, while the more sophisticated Volvo XC40 comes in at a shorter 174.8 inches.
Additionally, the Volvo XC40 is both lower in height and narrower in width (including mirrors) compared to the Mazda CX-5. For urban drivers who need an SUV that offers space without sacrificing maneuverability, the Volvo XC40 is the smarter, more city-friendly choice.
Both SUVs provide seating for up to five passengers across two comfortable rows. The Mazda CX-5 has slightly more maximum cargo space than the Volvo XC40, but the difference is minimal and not enough to outweigh the advantages of the Volvo model in other key areas.


Mazda CX-5 vs. Volvo XC40 Safety & Ratings
The 2025 Volvo XC40 and the 2025 Mazda CX-5 have earned commendable ratings from leading safety organizations. In evaluations by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the Volvo XC40 has been recognized for its strong performance in crash tests.6 The Mazda CX-5 has also performed well in certain IIHS assessments, although it received a "Poor" rating for specific tests for front crash prevention.7
Both SUVs come equipped with a suite of standard safety features, but a closer look reveals that the Volvo XC40 offers a more comprehensive range. Here are some of the base-level safety systems:
- BLISâ„¢ and Cross Traffic Alert
- Rear Collision Mitigation Support
- Lane Keeping Aid
- Oncoming Lane Mitigation
- Rear Park Assist
- Rear Park Assist Camera
- Rain Sensor
- Road Sign Information
- Slippery Road Alert
- Whiplash Injury Protection
2025 Volvo XC40 vs. 2025 Mazda CX-5 Warranty & Maintenance
In addition to a high caliber of safety, you can feel confident behind the wheel of a Volvo XC40, thanks to the brand's four-year/50,000-mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage1 and the Complimentary Factory Scheduled Maintenance Program that offers coverage for the first three regularly scheduled maintenance services up to 30,000 miles.8
A Mazda CX-5 arrives with a shorter three-year/36,000-mile warranty,1 and the automaker only provides a prepaid maintenance plan to its customers.9

Experience the Luxury of the 2025 Volvo XC40
The 2025 Volvo XC40 is designed for drivers who want a high-class SUV without compromising on performance or efficiency. From its refined interior details to its advanced safety technology and stronger standard horsepower, the Volvo XC40 is the smarter, safer, and more sophisticated choice over the Mazda CX-5.
To secure a Volvo XC40 for lease in Virginia from our dealership, reach out to our team today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which SUV offers better safety technology: the Volvo XC40 or Mazda CX-5?
When it comes to safety, the 2025 Volvo XC40 has a clear edge over the Mazda CX-5. Volvo Cars has long been a leader in automotive safety, and the Volvo XC40 continues that tradition with an impressive suite of standard safety features. Both include the expected Lane Keep Assist and Blind Spot Monitoring System, but the Volvo XC40 brings Slippery Road Alert, Rear Park Assist, and available Pilot Assist.
Which SUV has a more premium interior design: the Volvo XC40 or the Mazda CX-5?
Both SUVs lean more into the luxury side, with the cabins featuring premium materials like genuine wood trim and thoughtful interior design. However, the Volvo XC40 adds extra touches to the cabin, giving it that extra push towards next-level elegance. This includes features like a crystal gear selector knob by Orrefors®, driftwood decor, a tailored steering wheel, and high level interior illumination for truly sophisticated ambiance.
Which SUV offers better warranty coverage: the Volvo XC40 or Mazda CX-5?
The 2025 Volvo XC40 offers better warranty coverage compared to the Mazda CX-5 when evaluating their New Vehicle Limited Warranties. The Volvo XC40 includes a four-year/50,000-mile warranty1 (whichever comes first), while the Mazda CX-5 only provides a three-year/36,000-mile warranty1 (whichever comes first). This added coverage gives Volvo XC40 owners greater long-term peace of mind and confidence in their investment.
1Warranties listed on this web page shall not be solely relied upon. Warranties may be subject to specific terms, restrictions, exclusions, and fees. Additional warranty information may be obtained by visiting the official website of the warranty provider. Contact our dealership for complete details.
2When properly equipped.
3Towing capacities shown are maximums and must be reduced by the weight of any passenger, cargo hitch or optional equipment in the towing vehicle. Please refer to vehicle Owner's Manual for details regarding towing capacities and other valuable information. Towing a trailer may have an effect on vehicle's handling, braking, durability, performance and driving economy. For specific information on recommended or required equipment, see your Mazda Dealer. Hitches are available through manufacturers other than Mazda.
4EPA estimated range is 23 MPG city/30 MPG highway/26 MPG combined. Your actual range will vary for many reasons, including but not limited to, driving conditions, how and where you drive, how you maintain your vehicle, battery-package/condition, and other factors. See https://www.fueleconomy.gov/
5EPA-estimated mileage. Actual results will vary.
6Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/volvo/xc40-4-door-suv/2025
7Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/Mazda/cx-5-4-door-suv/2025
8Volvo Cars recommends that you bring your vehicle in for service at least once a year regardless of mileage. In such cases Volvo will cover the recommended services at 1 per year for the first 3 years.
9Coverage is effective from the agreement application date and expires at selected plan's year limit or when all covered services have been redeemed, whichever occurs first.