2021 Jeep Cherokee vs. 2021 Mazda CX-5
iSeeCars' unbiased and data-driven comparison of the 2021 Jeep Cherokee and 2021 Mazda CX-5 contrasts the two cars across a broad spectrum of vehicle specifications to determine which car is better. In addition to comparing pricing and specs, iSeeCars uses all the ratings, rankings, and insights from its comprehensive analyses of each vehicle model, including calculations of reliability, safety, depreciation, value retention, and the vehicle's projected lifetime recalls (based on analyzing over 25 billion data points). This in-depth evaluation is used to identify which vehicle represents a better overall choice for shoppers who are considering both the 2021 Jeep Cherokee and the 2021 Mazda CX-5.
When we compare the 2021 Jeep Cherokee's and the 2021 Mazda CX-5's specifications and ratings, the 2021 Jeep Cherokee has the advantage in the areas of typical lower range of pricing for used cars, and reliability. The 2021 Mazda CX-5 has the advantage in the areas of fuel efficiency, resale value, interior volume, overall quality score and base engine power. Based on this comparison of the 2021 Jeep Cherokee's and the 2021 Mazda CX-5's specifications and ratings, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 is a better car than the 2021 Jeep Cherokee.
Pricing: A used 2021 Jeep Cherokee ranges from $19,999 to $29,396 while a used 2021 Mazda CX-5 is priced between $20,499 to $28,974.
Resale/Retained Value: Looking at the 5-year depreciation rate for both models, the 2021 Jeep Cherokee loses 43.2 percent of its value and the 2021 Mazda CX-5 loses 36.2 percent of its value. This means the 2021 Mazda CX-5 retains 7 percentage points more of its value and has the advantage of higher resale value versus the 2021 Jeep Cherokee.
Quality Rating: The iSeeCars Overall Quality rating for the Jeep Cherokee is 7.8 out of 10 while the Mazda CX-5's quality rating is 8.2 out of 10. This results in the Jeep Cherokee being ranked 14 out of 19 Best Small SUVs and the Mazda CX-5 being ranked 10 out of 19. Out of 67 Best Crossover SUVs, the Jeep Cherokee is ranked 38 and the Mazda CX-5 is ranked 28.
Reliability Rating: iSeeCars’ Reliability Rating for the Jeep Cherokee is 7.7 out of 10. For the Mazda CX-5 the reliability rating is 7.2 out of 10. This gives the Jeep Cherokee a slight advantage in reliability compared to the Mazda CX-5.
Engine Power and Fuel Efficiency Comparison: For engine performance, the 2021 Jeep Cherokee’s base engine makes 180 horsepower, and the 2021 Mazda CX-5 base engine makes 187 horsepower. The Cherokee is rated to deliver an average of 25 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 493 miles. The CX-5 is rated to deliver an average of 28 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 459 miles.This gives the 2021 Mazda CX-5 the advantage in fuel efficiency and the 2021 Jeep Cherokee the advantage in maximum range. Both models use regular unleaded.
Passenger Space Comparison: While both models are crossover/compact SUVs, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 has the advantage of offering more interior volume, reflected in more front head room, rear head room, and cargo space. The 2021 Jeep Cherokee has the advantage in the areas of front shoulder room, front leg room, rear shoulder room and rear leg room.
Safety Ratings: When comparing crash test ratings from NHTSA, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 has higher safety ratings than the 2021 Jeep Cherokee, with an average rating of 5 out of 5 Stars compared to 4 out of 5 Stars.
New Car Pricing
Asking Price:
-
Starting MSRP:
$27,890
Category Avg Starting MSRP:
(Compact SUVs)
$25,515
Category Starting MSRP Range:
(Compact SUVs)
$23,700 - $27,890
New Car Pricing
Asking Price:
-
Starting MSRP:
$25,370
Category Avg Starting MSRP:
(Compact SUVs)
$25,515
Category Starting MSRP Range:
(Compact SUVs)
$23,700 - $27,890
Used Car Pricing
Avg Used Car Price:
$25,097
Price Range:
$19,999 - $29,396
Category Avg Price:
(Compact SUVs)
$24,444
Category Avg Price Range:
(Compact SUVs)
$20,734 - $27,641
# Used Cars for Sale Nationally:
1,805
Avg Mileage of Used Cars for Sale:
43,287
# Good or Great Deals:
720
Used Car Pricing
Avg Used Car Price:
$24,631
Price Range:
$20,499 - $28,974
Category Avg Price:
(Compact SUVs)
$24,444
Category Avg Price Range:
(Compact SUVs)
$20,734 - $27,641
# Used Cars for Sale Nationally:
1,395
Avg Mileage of Used Cars for Sale:
44,078
# Good or Great Deals:
454
Jeep Cherokee Scores & Rankings
Overall Score:
7.8 / 10
Reliability:
7.7 / 10
Retained Value:
7.8 / 10
Safety:
8.0 / 10
Mazda CX-5 Scores & Rankings
Overall Score:
8.2 / 10
Reliability:
7.2 / 10
Retained Value:
8.3 / 10
Safety:
9.0 / 10
iSeeCars Reliability Insights for 2021 Jeep Cherokee
Remaining Life Expectancy (years):
7.8
Typical Category Remaining Life Expectancy:
(Compact SUVs)
7.9
Category Remaining Life Expectancy Range:
(Compact SUVs)
6.9 - 10.4
Chance of Reaching 200k Miles for a New Car:
21.6%
iSeeCars Reliability Insights for 2021 Mazda CX-5
Remaining Life Expectancy (years):
9.3
Typical Category Remaining Life Expectancy:
(Compact SUVs)
7.9
Category Remaining Life Expectancy Range:
(Compact SUVs)
6.9 - 10.4
Chance of Reaching 200k Miles for a New Car:
23.9%
Expected 30-year Lifetime Recalls
Expected Lifetime Recalls:
3
Typical Category Recalls:
(Compact SUVs)
4.4
Category Range for Recalls:
(Compact SUVs)
1.7 - 13.9
Expected 30-year Lifetime Recalls
Expected Lifetime Recalls:
1.7
Typical Category Recalls:
(Compact SUVs)
4.4
Category Range for Recalls:
(Compact SUVs)
1.7 - 13.9
Jeep Cherokee Rankings
Ranking
1 out of / 19Ranking
1 out of / 19Ranking
1 out of / 1Ranking
3 out of / 19Ranking
5 out of / 67Ranking
5 out of / 19Ranking
10 out of / 19Ranking
11 out of / 18Ranking
12 out of / 13Ranking
14 out of / 67Ranking
14 out of / 19Ranking
14 out of / 19Ranking
15 out of / 30Ranking
16 out of / 19Ranking
16 out of / 19Ranking
17 out of / 19Ranking
19 out of / 19Ranking
19 out of / 19Ranking
23 out of / 67Ranking
24 out of / 67Ranking
30 out of / 67Ranking
38 out of / 67Ranking
40 out of / 67Ranking
41 out of / 67Ranking
44 out of / 59Ranking
51 out of / 67Ranking
53 out of / 67Ranking
53 out of / 67Ranking
55 out of / 67Mazda CX-5 Rankings
Ranking
3 out of / 19Ranking
4 out of / 7Ranking
4 out of / 6Ranking
5 out of / 19Ranking
8 out of / 19Ranking
9 out of / 20Ranking
9 out of / 19Ranking
9 out of / 19Ranking
9 out of / 19Ranking
9 out of / 14Ranking
10 out of / 19Ranking
12 out of / 19Ranking
14 out of / 19Ranking
14 out of / 19Ranking
14 out of / 19Ranking
15 out of / 19Ranking
17 out of / 67Ranking
18 out of / 19Ranking
19 out of / 67Ranking
20 out of / 67Ranking
20 out of / 59Ranking
28 out of / 67Ranking
32 out of / 67Ranking
34 out of / 67Ranking
35 out of / 67Ranking
35 out of / 67Ranking
36 out of / 67Ranking
39 out of / 67Ranking
43 out of / 67Ranking
47 out of / 67Ranking
50 out of / 67Summary Review
The Jeep Cherokee has come a long way since its introduction in 1974. The current generation, introduced in 2014, was given an exterior update in 2019, along with some added engine options. The Cherokee is best known for its fuel economy, off-road capability, and family friendly design. New models cost an average of $32,172 and 3-year-old models average $22,989.
Summary Review
The Mazda CX-5 is a compact crossover with seating for five and a reputation as a favorite for drivers. The current Mazda CX-5 was redesigned for the 2017 model year, with new models costing an average of $32,211 and recent models averaging $23,771.
Pros and Cons
- Suspension capable for both on-road and off-road use
- Excellent infotainment touchscreen and user interface
- Smart interior design and comfort
- Base engines feel underpowered
- Wind and road noise at highway speeds
- Cargo capacity is limited compared to rivals
Pros and Cons
- Dynamic driving experience
- Near-luxury interior design and materials
- Available 250-hp turbo engine on newer models
- No hybrid available
- Fuel economy lags class leaders
- Non-turbo models could use more power
Available Body Styles
SUV
Available Body Styles
SUV
Available Drivetrain Options
Gasoline
Available Drivetrain Options
Gasoline
2021 Jeep Cherokee Trim Levels
80th Anniversary Edition, Altitude, Freedom, High Altitude, Latitude, Latitude Lux, Latitude Plus, Limited, Trailhawk
2021 Mazda CX-5 Trim Levels
Carbon Edition, Carbon Edition Turbo, Grand Touring, Grand Touring Reserve, Signature, Sport, Touring
Warranty Information
Warranty, Bumper-to-Bumper:
3 years / 36000 miles
Warranty, Powertrain:
5 years / 60000 miles
Warranty, Roadside Assistance:
5 years / 60000 miles
Warranty Information
Warranty, Bumper-to-Bumper:
3 years / 36000 miles
Warranty, Powertrain:
5 years / 60000 miles
Warranty, Roadside Assistance:
3 years / 36000 miles
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Safety Rating (last 5 year average):
4 out of 5 Stars
2025 NHTSA Overall Rating:
4 out of 5 Stars
2025 NHTSA Front Crash Overall Rating:
4 out of 5 Stars
2025 NHTSA Side Crash Overall Rating:
5 out of 5 Stars
2025 NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4 out of 5 Stars
IIHS Safety Rating:
Not yet available
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Safety Rating (last 5 year average):
5 out of 5 Stars
2025 NHTSA Overall Rating:
4 out of 5 Stars
2025 NHTSA Front Crash Overall Rating:
5 out of 5 Stars
2025 NHTSA Side Crash Overall Rating:
5 out of 5 Stars
2025 NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4 out of 5 Stars
IIHS Safety Rating:
Not yet available
Base Drivetrain Specs
Horsepower:
180 hp @ 6400 rpm
Torque:
171 foot-lbs @ 4600 rpm
Power-to-Weight Ratio (higher is better):
0.050 hp per pound
Towing capacity:
Not yet available
Base Drivetrain Specs
Horsepower:
187 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
186 foot-lbs @ 4000 rpm
Power-to-Weight Ratio (higher is better):
0.053 hp per pound
Towing capacity:
Not yet available
Engine Specifications
Engine Size:
2.4 liters
Engine Configuration:
Inline
Number of Cylinders:
4
Transmission:
Automatic
Standard/Optional Drivetrain Type:
FWD / 4X4
EPA Fuel Economy
(City/Highway/Combined MPG):
22 / 31 / 25
Range (city/hwy):
350 / 493 miles
Recommended Fuel Type:
Regular Unleaded
Engine Specifications
Engine Size:
2.5 liters
Engine Configuration:
Inline
Number of Cylinders:
4
Transmission:
Automatic
Standard/Optional Drivetrain Type:
FWD / AWD
EPA Fuel Economy
(City/Highway/Combined MPG):
25 / 31 / 28
Range (city/hwy):
370 / 459 miles
Recommended Fuel Type:
Regular Unleaded
Standard/Optional Features
Alloy wheels:
Standard
Android Auto:
Standard
Apple CarPlay:
Standard
Bench Seats:
Standard
Bluetooth:
Standard
Keyless Entry:
Standard
Power outlet:
Standard
Roadside assistance:
Standard
Voice Recognition:
Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Available
Automatic Parking:
Available
Cooled/Ventilated Seats:
Available
Heated Seats
Available
Heated Steering Wheel:
Available
Keyless Ignition:
Available
Leather Upholstery:
Available
Navigation System:
Available
Parking Sensors:
Available
Power Lift Gate:
Available
Satellite radio:
Available
Sunroof/Moonroof:
Available
Trailer Hitch:
Available
Wifi:
Available
Air Suspension:
N/A
Captain's seat:
N/A
Front Bench Seats:
N/A
Internet Radio:
N/A
Massage Seats:
N/A
Paddle Shifters:
N/A
Panoramic Sunroof/Moonroof
N/A
Quad Seats:
N/A
Roof Rack:
N/A
Wireless Smartphone Charging:
N/A
Standard/Optional Features
Alloy wheels:
Standard
Android Auto:
Standard
Apple CarPlay:
Standard
Bench Seats:
Standard
Bluetooth:
Standard
Keyless Entry:
Standard
Power outlet:
Standard
Roadside assistance:
Standard
Voice Recognition:
Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Standard
Automatic Parking:
N/A
Cooled/Ventilated Seats:
Available
Heated Seats
Available
Heated Steering Wheel:
Available
Keyless Ignition:
Standard
Leather Upholstery:
Available
Navigation System:
Available
Parking Sensors:
Available
Power Lift Gate:
Available
Satellite radio:
Available
Sunroof/Moonroof:
Available
Trailer Hitch:
Available
Wifi:
N/A
Air Suspension:
N/A
Captain's seat:
N/A
Front Bench Seats:
N/A
Internet Radio:
Standard
Massage Seats:
N/A
Paddle Shifters:
Available
Panoramic Sunroof/Moonroof
N/A
Quad Seats:
N/A
Roof Rack:
N/A
Wireless Smartphone Charging:
N/A
Safety Features
Backup camera:
Standard
Blind Spot Monitoring:
Standard
Forward Collision Warning:
Standard
Lane Departure Warning:
Standard
Lane Keeping Assist:
Standard
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert:
Standard
360-Degree Camera:
N/A
Driver Attention Monitoring:
N/A
Pedestrian Detection:
N/A
Rear Seat Reminder:
N/A
Safety Features
Backup camera:
Standard
Blind Spot Monitoring:
Standard
Forward Collision Warning:
Standard
Lane Departure Warning:
Standard
Lane Keeping Assist:
Standard
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert:
Standard
360-Degree Camera:
Available
Driver Attention Monitoring:
Available
Pedestrian Detection:
Standard
Rear Seat Reminder:
N/A
Interior Dimensions
Front Head Room:
39.4 inches
Front Leg Room:
41.1 inches
Front Shoulder Room:
57.6 inches
Rear Head Room:
38.5 inches
Rear Leg Room:
40.3 inches
Rear Shoulder Room:
55.1 inches
Cargo Space:
25.8 cubic feet
Cargo Space, 2nd-row seat folded down:
54.7 cubic feet
Overall Interior Volume:
128.0 cubic feet
Interior Dimensions
Front Head Room:
39.7 inches
Front Leg Room:
41 inches
Front Shoulder Room:
57.1 inches
Rear Head Room:
39 inches
Rear Leg Room:
39.6 inches
Rear Shoulder Room:
54.8 inches
Cargo Space:
30.9 cubic feet
Cargo Space, 2nd-row seat folded down:
59.6 cubic feet
Overall Interior Volume:
134.5 cubic feet
Exterior Dimensions
Curb Weight:
3590 lbs
Width:
73.2 inches
Height:
65.7 inches
Length:
183.1 inches
Wheelbase:
106.5 inches
Ground Clearance:
8.8 inches
Exterior Dimensions
Curb Weight:
3552 lbs
Width:
83.3 inches
Height:
66.2 inches
Length:
179.1 inches
Wheelbase:
106.2 inches
Ground Clearance:
7.5 inches
Standard Wheel/Tire Information
Wheel Size:
17.0 x 7.0 inches
Wheel Type:
painted aluminum alloy
Tire Size:
P225/60R17
Standard Wheel/Tire Information
Wheel Size:
17.0 x 7.0 inches
Wheel Type:
aluminum alloy
Tire Size:
P225/65R17
Exterior Colors
Beige
Light Brownstone Pearl Coat
Black
Diamond Black Crystal Pearl Coat
Blue
Slate Blue Pearl Coat
Gray
Sting-Gray Clear Coat
Green
Olive Green Pearl Coat
Orange
Spitfire Orange Clear Coat
Red
Velvet Red Pearl Coat
Silver
Billet Silver Metallic Clear Coat
White
Bright White Clear Coat
Exterior Colors
Beige
Not available
Black
Jet Black Mica
Blue
Eternal Blue Mica
Gray
Not available
Green
Not available
Orange
Not available
Red
Soul Red Crystal Metallic
Silver
Not available
White
Snowflake White Pearl Mica
Interior Colors
Beige
Black/Light Frost Beige
Black
Black
Interior Colors
Beige
Not available
Black
Black