2025 Chery Tiggo 7 Pro vs Mazda CX-5 comparison: Spec battle

Almost every car brand has a mid-sized SUV in their showroom fighting for the attention of Aussie families and a slice of the single biggest market segment by sales volume, which makes it the nation’s most popular new vehicle type.

With almost 60 different models currently available, from budget-friendly urban runabouts and uber-luxurious European wagons, to cutting-edge electric vehicles and even a gang of high-performance hot rods that deliver supercar levels of acceleration, it’s difficult to know where to start.

But, if you’re looking for something that has enough space to handle all the family duties without busting the bank account, then the shortlist is a little easier to define.

There are still a handful of value-packed base-grade options for under $40k from known brands like Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Toyota, Kia and Hyundai. And then there’s a raft of new arrivals, like the Chery Tiggo 7 we’re comparing here against the ever-popular Mazda CX-5.

So, let’s find out which option is best: the newcomer or the old favourite?

How much?

Right off the bat, the Chery Tiggo 7 Pro SE makes a massive statement with a starting price of just $29,990 drive-away.

That is exceptional value for money and makes it the most affordable car in its class while also cheaper than many mainstream SUVs that are a size smaller.

The Mazda CX-5 Maxx is normally a fraction more expensive than it is now as the Japanese brand is currently offering the entry-level variant for just $37,990 drive-away.

Both of these variants are entry-level front-wheel drive models, which means you can spend more for higher-grade variants. The Tiggo 7 is also offered in the SE+ model grade for $33,990 drive-away and it offers a couple of extra features.

However, there’s significantly more choice in the CX-5 range, which comprises eight model variants including front- and all-wheel drive layouts stretching from the Maxx we’re featuring here to the flagship Akera Turbo that tops out at $55,000 plus on-roads.

Drivetrains and Efficiency

As mentioned, both of these entry-level versions have a front-drive layout and are therefore better suited to running around the urban jungle than heading off the beaten path.

But that’s about where the similarities end, as the Chery is powered by a smaller-capacity – but turbocharged – 1.6-litre four-cylinder that drives through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

The CX-5, on the other hand, has a 2.0-litre normally aspirated four-cylinder with a conventional six-speed automatic, which might sound a bit ‘old hat’, but it does feature a host of clever fuel-saving technologies such as cylinder deactivation and idle stop/start.

The Tiggo 7 delivers more power and torque – 139kW and 275Nm versus 115kW and 200Nm – and has to push less mass, weighing almost 100kg lighter than the CX-5. But the Mazda is fractionally better in terms of fuel consumption.

Plus, it only requires the more affordable 91 RON standard unleaded, whereas Chery recommends that the Tiggo runs on a minimum of 95 RON premium petrol.

Dimensions

If there was a standard set of rules for mid-sized SUVs, then both the CX-5 and Tiggo 7 would fit into an identical box in terms of overall dimensions.

The Mazda is slightly longer in overall length and has more space between the front and rear axles, but the Chery is fractionally taller and wider.

In reality, there’s nothing to separate these two, except the CX-5 offers more rear cargo room in the boot.

Servicing and Warranty

As with all Chery models, the Tiggo 7 Pro is covered by the company’s seven-year warranty while the Mazda is only covered for five years.

Each of them is backed for unlimited kilometres and come with free roadside assistance for the entire warranty period.

Both models require regular maintenance every 12 months or 15,000km and have capped-price service plans over seven years, during which the Chery will cost almost $1000 less to maintain.

Safety

Here’s where things get interesting, and the Mazda starts to show its age.

The second-generation CX-5 previously scored a maximum five-star ANCAP rating when it was first introduced in 2017, but the independent safety body has removed its score as the test protocols have changed and its date stamp has expired.

The Chery Tiggo 7, on the other hand, has only recently been launched in Australia and has a maximum five-star rating under the latest ANCAP ratings system.

To meet those requirements, it also has a few more features in its comprehensive suite of advanced safety and driver assist systems, as outlined by the table below.

Standard Equipment

Even though both of these variants are at the entry point of their respective model ranges, it’s interesting to see the differences in how each of the brands focus on value in terms of standard specifications.

Technology

Both of them feature the latest in digital conveniences, including twin digital screens – for the instrument cluster and infotainment system – wireless Bluetooth connectivity, smartphone mirroring and voice control activation for certain functions.

But the Tiggo 7 trumps the CX-5 with extras like embedded satellite navigation, larger 12.3-inch screens and an eight-speaker (compared to the Mazda’s six) audio system from Sony.

Comfort and Convenience

It is also loaded with more of the little luxuries, like synthetic leather trim, a power adjustable driver’s seat and dual-zone climate control air-conditioning, where the CX-5 has fabric trim, manual seats and standard air-con.

CarExpert’s Pick

The Mazda CX-5 has long been the benchmark family SUV due to its dynamic driving character, decent value, comfortable cabin and pleasing style.

It is still a great mid-sized SUV, but the crow’s feet are starting to show especially against newer rivals like the Tiggo 7, which offer more modern technology – both under the bonnet and inside – for far less money.

The Chery Tiggo 7 Pro SE is significantly better than its price tag suggests. It is not only exceptional value for money and loaded with more equipment, but it is an impressive machine to drive and feels more than capable of handling all the challenges your family will throw at it.

Interested in buying a Chery Tiggo 7 or Mazda CX-5? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers via the links

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