Mazda CX-5 vs. Mitsubishi Destinator: Which SUV Deserves Your $700 Million?

In the sub-700 million VND price range, let’s compare two versions of the Mitsubishi Destinator Premium and Mazda CX-5 Deluxe to highlight their distinct differences.

Pricing and Affordability

The Mazda CX-5 Deluxe has a clear financial accessibility edge. Before the launch of its Mitsubishi counterpart, several authorized dealers nationwide were offering the Mazda CX-5 Deluxe for just 699 million VND. This is a significant discount from its listed price of 749 million VND, with a 30 million VND cash reduction and an additional 20 million VND from the dealer.

At 699 million VND post-discount, this model becomes the most accessible choice in the C-segment SUV category.

The Destinator, on the other hand, is offered at a discounted price of 739 million VND for the Premium version, a 40 million VND difference compared to the CX-5. This price gap is a trade-off for its 7-seater configuration.

While the Mazda CX-5 appeals to budget-conscious buyers, the Destinator caters to those willing to pay more for added versatility.

Design

Design is a key differentiator. The Destinator is a 7-seater SUV (5+2) with significantly larger dimensions: 4,680 x 1,840 x 1,780 mm. Its 2,815 mm wheelbase and 214 mm ground clearance enhance its versatility and off-road capabilities.

In contrast, the CX-5 is a compact 5-seater SUV with dimensions of 4,550 x 1,840 x 1,680 mm and a 2,700 mm wheelbase. It prioritizes a spacious 5-seat cabin and larger cargo area. Its lower ground clearance (200 mm) enhances high-speed stability.

Engine and Driving Experience

The Destinator is powered by a 1.5L Turbo MIVEC engine (161 hp, 250 Nm) paired with a CVT transmission. Its advantage lies in its early torque delivery, ensuring better acceleration and load-carrying capacity. The CVT provides a smooth, comfortable urban driving experience.

The CX-5 Deluxe features a 2.0L naturally aspirated engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission. It delivers a sporty, engaging drive thanks to its 6AT and G-Vectoring Control technology. While its initial torque may be lower than the Destinator’s turbo engine, the CX-5 excels in control and stability.

Features and Technology

Both models offer top-tier safety features. The Destinator includes the Diamond Sense ADAS package as standard, along with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It features a 6-speaker sound system and Mitsubishi Connect smart connectivity.

The CX-5 offers the i-Activsense safety package on higher trims. However, its 8-inch infotainment screen with wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity falls short. Its 6-speaker sound system and entertainment features are less advanced than the Destinator’s.