Mazda vs Camry
 

After researching 5 vehicles for over three months, I have narrowed my list to the Mazda CX5T and the Camry XSE V6. I have looked at the Camry, but unfortunately the CX5T still isn't available to test. What is the best points to convince me to purchase the CX5T over the Camry? I really prefer a SUV to replace my 2010 Nissan Frontier, but will settle for a sedan based on reliability and the 'fun factor' in driving. I realize that the CX5 isn't made for serious off-road use, so that isn't a factor.

I find Mazdas to be a nice car from a driver perspective. I've owned a Mazda6 and now drive a 2016 CX-5. I have a friend who owns a Toyota Camry and I have a Tundra pickup, Toyota builds a very dependable car, but I like the personality of Mazda better. The CX-5 is a good driver car, especially for a mini SUV, I owned several Outbacks over the years, the handling of the CX-5 is far better. Also, I've had no issues with my CX-5. Not to offend Toyotas, but I find them pretty bland.

Thank you for your input. I am nervously anticipating the CX5T to arrive at the dealers.

what year is the camry , also i learned this the hard way when i had a accord V6. but you should look into what the maintenance is for the v6. for instance .. when i got my accord v6, i had no idea it would need a timing belt and water pump replacement as Standard maintenance. $$$ among other items that were only for the V6 model.....

The Camry is a 2019 Camry XSE V6. In view of the Camry's outstanding record in the past, I don't anticipate any problems with the car. My wife has a 2017 Camry XSE V6 and she has had absolutely NO problems. A V6 doesn't require any more maintenance than any other vehicle. Properly maintained the Camry or Accord are good cars, but all vehicles must be maintained as required to assure long-lasting enjoyment.

Yes, the Toyota V6 requires a timing chain replacement (at ~120K miles) and they do the water pump at the same time as they have to remove the chain to get to the water pump. That is a $1500 service. Been there and done that.

I had both and the Camry requires more maintenance. The CX-5 is cheaper to own and performs great. The suspension is stiffer, but you ride higher. Who wants a sedan anymore?

I do and am anxiously awaiting the intro (tomorrow!) of the next-gen Mazda 3 hatch so I can decide between it, the Civic hatch and the Hyundai Elantra GT Sport N-line. I've driven a CX-5 for 6 years now and, while I don't regret choosing it over other crossovers, I'm done with the whole SUV thing with it's unaturally high ride height and ground clearance. I actually lowered mine 1.5" to give it a more "planted look" and to make it feel a little more car-like. Don't assume everyone thinks like you do. The sedan/car portion of the American market is still 33%!

I would be interested in what maintenance you are referring to. All vehicles require some type of routine maintenance.

Why not consider the Mazda 6 2.5T as well?

Au contraire, I learned one thing in the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps; don't assume anything. You are being condescending implying that I believe that. Thanks for you for your input.

Just an example. When I purchased my V6 Honda Accord it had additional maintenance that was not required in the 4-cylinder Honda Accord.. the timing belt and water pump was part of the maintenance that was required in the Honda Accord I think at 60000 Miles I can't remember exactly. But that was not required in the 4-cylinder model and not required in any other car that I've owned with such low mileage... that's just one type of example of maintenance that people might not be aware of when purchasing a vehicle

I've owned 3 Toyotas in the past, am on my second Mazda CX5, I consider Mazda to be a poor man's Toyota, will probably go back to a Toyota next time.

I do as well. While I understand the appeal of the SUV, the Minivan and the Station Wagon that were popular in their days as well, I prefer the drive of a car. My preference would be for a coupe over a sedan. I prefer the handling of a small car over the larger options that are popular today.

Again, I understand the appeal, but I will be driving a small car as long as they are available.



As for the original question: If you are considering a Camry, you should also look at the Mazda 6 with the Turbo.

Straight from the 'horse's mouth' (2018 Camry Manual); Powertrain Warranty This warranty covers repairs needed to correct defects in materials or workmanship of any component listed below and in the next column and supplied by Toyota, subject to the exceptions indicated under “What Is Not Covered” on pages 14-15. Coverage is for 60 months or 60,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Engine Cylinder block and head and all internal parts, timing gears and gaskets, timing chain/belt and cover, flywheel, valve covers, oil pan, oil pump, engine mounts, turbocharger housing and all internal parts, supercharger housing and all internal parts, engine control computer, water pump, fuel pump, seals and gaskets.
My current truck is a 2010 Nissan Frontier with 23,000 miles. My previous Toyota Tacoma was a 2002 with 29,000 miles when traded for the Frontier, therefore I an not too concerned with timing chains on the Camry.

With so few miles you should lease instead of purchase.