Used test: Citroën C5 Aircross vs Honda CR-V vs Mazda CX-5
Buyers of used SUVs are still loyal to diesel, but could petrol versions of the Mazda CX-5, Citroen C5 Aircross and Honda CR-V tempt them away from the black pump?...
Our verdict
Consistency is key here. Even in a relatively expensive trim, with a petrol engine that’s weaker than its rivals’, the Mazda CX-5 is still strong in most areas and excels in some, being very well equipped and good to drive. If you’re reluctantly opting for a large SUV because of a growing family and would like something in which you can have at least some fun, it’s a great shout.
Citroën is known for avant-garde designs, and the Citroen C5 Aircross ticks that box, both inside and out. Broadly speaking, it also succeeds in emulating another classic Citroën trait: if you spend a lot of time on motorways, it’s supremely supple and very quiet. It’ll be relatively cheap to run, too; just don’t expect much in the way of dynamic sparkle.
Practicality is the biggest strength of the Honda CR-V. It’s also perfectly comfortable and decent to drive, but it’s let down by its baffling infotainment system and instrument panel, as well as its steep running costs.
For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter here
1st – Mazda CX-5
For Strong on safety; well equipped; most enjoyable to drive
Against Weakest performance; fidgety ride; smallest boot; lots of wind noise
What Car? says: Four out of five
Find used Mazda CX-5 for sale>>
2nd – Citroën C5 Aircross
For Strong engine; cheapest PCP payments; tranquil motorway ride; quietest at speed; most economical
Against Soggy handling; poor head room with a sunroof fitted; so-so infotainment; reliability
What Car? says: Four out of five
Read the full used Citroën C5 review here
Find used Citroen C5 Aircross for sale >>
3rd – Honda CR-V
For Great visibility; good-sized boot; lots of passenger space; decent performance
Against Terrible infotainment; costliest to buy and run; some illogical controls
What Car? says: Three out of five
Read the full used Honda CR-V review here
Find used Honda CR-V for sale>>
Mazda CX-5 2.0 Skyactiv-G 165 2WD Sport Nav+ auto
Engine size 2.0-litre petrol
List price when new £30,295
Price today £25,000
Power 163bhp
Torque 157lb ft
0-60mph 9.3sec
Top speed 119mph
Fuel economy 36.7mpg (official WLTP average)
CO2 emissions 150g/km
Citroën C5 Aircross Puretech 180 Flair EAT8
Engine size 1.6-litre petrol
List price when new £28,352
Price today £22,000
Power 178bhp
Torque 184lb ft
0-60mph 8.8sec
Top speed 134mph
Fuel economy 39.6mpg (official WLTP average)
CO2 emissions 131g/km
Honda CR-V 1.5 VTEC Turbo AWD SE CVT 5st
Engine size 1.5-litre petrol
List price when new £31,265
Price today £24,500
Power 190bhp
Torque 179lb ft
0-60mph 8.8sec
Top speed 124mph
Fuel economy 36.2mpg (official WLTP average)
CO2 emissions 162g/km
Price today is based on a 2019 model with average mileage and full service history, correct at time of writing
For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter here