2021 Mazda CX-5 vs 2021 Jeep Cherokee | San Juan Capistrano, CA

Better Engine Options

The 2021 CX-5 comes standard with a 2.5L four-cylinder engine that produces 186 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. Some models, like the Grand Touring Reserve listed above, have a turbo-charged version of the engine that significantly pumps up those numbers. Both engines are standout options in their segment at their respective price points. The Cherokee can’t say the same. The base engine is a 2.4L turbo-four, producing 180 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque. The engine is good but doesn’t quite match the base 2.5L four-cylinder for the 2021 CX-5. The “upgraded” engine for a 2021 Cherokee is a 3.2L V6. Notably, review outlets all over the internet say this engine is outperformed by the base 2.4L turbo-four. Needless to say, if drivability matters to you, then the 2021 CX-5 is the way to go.