2025 Mazda CX-5 (187 hp)If having fun while driving is high on your priority list, no compact crossover does that better than the CX-5. This is hardly surprising, as Mazda nails the driving dynamics in pretty much every category. The base 2.5-liter naturally aspirated hurts the dynamics a bit, as it only delivers 187 hp. That's enough for a zero to 60 sprint of 8.1 seconds, matching its Japanese rivals.Still, the CX-5 starts lower, at $28,770 plus a $1,420 destination charge, while boasting probably the most luxurious interior in its category. The CX-5 truly feels upscale inside, with excellent materials, fit and finish. It's not as practical as the CR-V, though, as its trunk is more limited in volume. On the flip side, the CX-5 can tow up to 2,000 pounds, which is more than most of its rivals.Same as the CX-30, the CX-5 is at its best with the more powerful turbocharged engine. With 256 hp on tap, it's good enough for a zero to 60 time of 6.2 seconds, and combined better with the nimble chassis. It's significantly more expensive and down on fuel economy, though. The base CX-5 is rated at 28 mpg combined, while the Turbo only musters 25 mpg. Opting for AWD will cut those figures further, and Mazda doesn't offer a hybrid version for eco-conscious buyers. If you would prefer the hybrid, then you'll have to wait for the brand-new 2027 CX-5, which will be available with a hybrid powertrain.2025 Ford Escape (180 hp)Unlike most of its rivals, the base Ford Escape utilizes a 1.5-liter EcoBoost three-cylinder turbocharged engine. On paper, it's down on power with 181 hp, but also has a relatively high 199 lb-ft of torque. As a result, it sprints to 60 in 7.7 seconds — not bad for an entry-level compact SUV. It's also competitively priced, starting at $29,150, or $30,645 with destination included.Despite having only three cylinders, the base Escape can also tow up to 2,000 pounds. It even delivers good fuel economy at 30 mpg combined (FWD) and 28 mpg combined (AWD). It comes standard with an eight-speed automatic, just like the more potent 2.0-liter EcoBoost with 250 hp. The larger engine cuts down the zero to 60 time to 5.8 seconds, but it's also thirstier at 26 mpg. AWD is standard on the 2.0 EcoBoost.You might want to take it into consideration, though, because the Escape is geared toward a more engaging driving experience. This means that the suspension is also a bit stiff over bumps — not the thing you'd want to hear in a family-oriented crossover. The base Escape also has some hard, cheap-feeling plastics inside. Still, the dashboard is very useful, as it has physical controls below the 8.0-inch or optional 13.2-inch touchscreen.