CR-V V vs CX-5 II (KF): which is better?
Honda CR-V V (2016–2022) vs Mazda CX-5 II (KF) (2017–present): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Mazda CX-5 II (KF)Specifications
| Honda CR-V V | Mazda CX-5 II (KF) | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2016–2022 | 2017–present |
| Body | crossover SUV | crossover SUV |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 2.4 | 2.5 |
| Power, up to | 186 hp | 194 hp |
| Torque, up to | 244 Nm | 258 Nm |
| Gearbox | CVT | automatic |
| Drive | all-wheel drive | all-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 605 mm | 4 550 mm |
| Width | 1 855 mm | 1 840 mm |
| Height | 1 689 mm | 1 680 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 660 mm | 2 700 mm |
| Ground clearance | — | 193 mm |
| Fuel tank | 57 L | 56 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 28 750 ₸ | ≈ 29 450 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Honda CR-V V
Pros
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Honda K20/K24 engine: VTC actuator rattle on cold start
- Honda CVT: jerks when pulling away as it wears
Engine (Honda K20/K24): VTC actuator rattle on cold start; oil consumption on the K24Z (2008–2012); crankshaft seal leak.
Gearbox (Honda CVT): jerks when pulling away once worn; bearing wear.
Mazda CX-5 II (KF)
Pros
- Mazda Skyactiv-Drive gearbox (6-speed automatic): a reliable transmission
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Currently in production — can be bought new
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Mazda Skyactiv-G engine: carbon buildup on valves in city driving
Engine (Mazda Skyactiv-G): few widespread problems; carbon buildup on valves in city driving.
Gearbox (Mazda Skyactiv-Drive (6-speed automatic)): reliable gearbox.
Which one to choose
- CR-V V — if you care more about: fuel tank, kz tax 2026.
- CX-5 II (KF) — if you care more about: power, torque, wheelbase.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: CR-V V or CX-5 II (KF)?
CR-V V: up to 186 hp, CX-5 II (KF): up to 194 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: CR-V V — about 28 750 ₸, CX-5 II (KF) — about 29 450 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.