The crossover market is the hottest in the country. Every automaker makes one, and many are getting into the game of off-road appearance packages. In some cases, they sprinkle in a bit of off-road capability too. The Honda CR-V Trailsport and Mazda CX-50 Meridian are two competing examples. Neither of these crossovers is meant to conquer Moab, but both promise a little extra confidence once the pavement ends. Mazda CX-50 Meridian 2.5 Turbo $40,400 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G Dynamic Pressure Turbo 4-cylinder engine. It makes 256 hp, with higher octane or 227 hp on regular. It also produces more torque (up to 320 lb-ft) on higher octane as well. But the EPA-estimated 23 MPG city and 29 MPG highway rating remains the same regardless of the octane. It has a six-speed automatic transmission, which provides a nice balance between comfort and sport. Yes, there is a much less expensive version that has the non-turbo engine, but I think that the turbo competes directly in terms of pricing. It's also a lot more fun. As a matter of fact, I would go so far as to say it is one of the most enjoyable drivers in this class. As a commuter, the CX-50 Meridian Turbo is a sharp handler, yet it is comfortable and has a nice ride. All this, despite its off-road-ready tires. Those tires are the real story. They improve grip on dirt and snow and give the Mazda slightly more trail credibility than most compact SUVs. Sporting Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail tires (P225/60R18), they are far more aggressive than others that look capable, but are mainly for the highway. These Wildpeaks have some off-road chops too.The CX-50 also sits slightly higher off the ground, up to about 8.6 inches of clearance, which is acceptable, but falls short of competitors like Subaru. Still, it's more than the Honda. 01-2026-honda-cr-v-trailsport Honda CR-V TrailSport$38,800 The 2026 Honda CR-V TrailSport is an AWD-only hybrid compact SUV featuring a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and two electric motors, producing a combined 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. It focuses on off-road capability with all-terrain tires, rugged tuning, and 8.2 inches of ground clearance. It is EPA-estimated to get 38 MPG city and 33 MPG highway. While there is no spool and belt version of a continuously variable transmission, it's still known as an eCVT. It simulates gear changes, but the power is either all electric in stop-and-go traffic or engine power on the highway via direct drive. It is one of the best hybrid systems out there, and the all-wheel drive system works well on challenging roads. It is not as adept off-road, nor can it keep up with the sporty CX-50 on the road. Don't get me wrong, it's a comfortable ride, but those Continental Cross Contact tires (265 60R 18) are kind of clunky. The CR-V's party trick is its fuel mileage and excellent civility when commuting. What makes them rugged? Tires. There are no real skid-plates, suspension lifts or special off-road gearing. Everything else is based on the same formula: make nifty badges, black out components, make sure you include roof-rails, and produce unique wheels. I simply must call out Honda's unique Ash Green paint, as I think it looks outstanding. Additionally, painting their 18-inch wheels Shark Grey was a nice touch. The CX-50 Meridian has a cool sticker on its hood. I like the optional roof rack, but it's no good for those who don't like wind-noise on the highway, and lower MPGs. With that being said, I think the Mazda has a masculine swagger to it. The beefy fenders and overall stance is hard to deny. Interior and PracticalityThis is where the Honda fights back.The CR-V offers:More rear seat spaceUp to 76.5 cubic feet of cargo spaceA generally roomier cabin overall.The Mazda interior is more driver-focused and upscale, but the cabin and cargo area are smaller. Still, the Mazda CX-50 Meridian Edition features a standard 10.25-inch full-color center display. This screen operates via the Mazda Connect infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration, touch functionality, and a 7-inch TFT LCD digital instrument cluster. The Honda features a standard 9-inch color touchscreen across all trim levels, equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims (EX-L, TrailSport, Sport-L, and Sport Touring) also include a 10.2-inch full digital instrument display. It also has Google built in. The Mazda looks and feels luxurious, and (like the Honda) has unique bits of trim throughout that remind you you're driving an adventure vehicle. The confines are far tighter than the Honda, which simple is larger, more utilitarian and logical. 03-2026-honda-cr-v-trailsport Final ThoughtsWant the most rugged look and the most trail confidence? Go with the Mazda CX-50 Meridian Edition. It’s the more engaging drive of the two, and it looks the part when the pavement ends. The tradeoff is a slightly higher price and a bit less usable interior space.Want the better everyday companion with a hint of adventure? The Honda CR‑V TrailSport takes that win. It’s more efficient, more practical, and simply easier to live with day-to-day. For most buyers, it’s the smarter choice.My money? I really like the Mazda. Even the non-turbo version is a surprisingly fun drive, and the turbo turns it into something genuinely exciting.
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