Looking for a family SUV under $45,000? Compare the Mitsubishi Destinator and Mazda CX‑5 to find the perfect spring‑break ride. Read on and decide today!
When the Lunar New Year approaches, many Vietnamese families start looking for a fresh set of wheels to travel during the holiday. The market offers a wave of end‑of‑year incentives and dealer‑run “run‑number” programmes, making it an ideal time to snag a new SUV under the VND 1 billion (about $45,000) price tag.
Design & First Impressions
Both the Mazda CX‑5 and the newly launched Mitsubishi Destinator belong to the popular C‑segment SUV class, yet their styling philosophies could not be more different.
Mazda continues to rely on its KODO‑design language, delivering smooth, flowing lines, subtle chrome accents and an overall sense of refined elegance. This look has resonated well with urban buyers, especially women, who appreciate a sophisticated yet approachable appearance.
In contrast, the Destinator arrives with a bold, boxy silhouette. Squared‑off edges, a massive front bumper, and a wide stance give it a muscular, almost athletic vibe that tends to attract male buyers seeking a more rugged presence on the road.
Size, Space & Practicality
The Destinator measures 4,680 mm × 1,840 mm × 1,780 mm (L × W × H) with a 2,815 mm wheelbase, while the CX‑5 sits at a slightly more compact 4,550 mm × 1,840 mm × 1,680 mm and a 2,700 mm wheelbase. The extra length and longer wheelbase of the Destinator translate into a more spacious cabin, allowing for a 5 + 2 seating arrangement. The third‑row seats are not meant for adult‑long journeys, but they are handy for occasional extra passengers or extra cargo.
Both models offer respectable ground clearance, but the Destinator’s higher ride height gives it an edge on uneven city streets, poorly maintained roads, or shallow water crossings—common scenarios during the rainy Tet period.
Interior & Technology
Inside, the two SUVs converge on functionality. Both provide a well‑placed set of physical buttons, a central touchscreen and easy access to climate controls. Features such as heated/ventilated seats, wireless charging, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto are available on higher trims of each model.
The CX‑5 distinguishes itself with a standard panoramic sunroof on the Premium trim, a touch many buyers consider a “must‑have.” The Destinator omits this feature across its lineup, focusing instead on a more robust infotainment system that includes a smart‑connect button on the rear‑view mirror. This button can contact Mitsubishi’s call‑center in case of emergencies, locate the vehicle in a parking lot, or even pre‑condition the cabin climate remotely.
Powertrain & Driving Experience
The Destinator is powered by a 1.5‑litre Turbocharged MIVEC engine. While the turbo provides lively acceleration, the engine’s character is more “exciting” than “quiet.” On rough roads the vehicle offers multiple drive modes—Normal, Wet, Gravel, Mud and Tarmac—allowing the driver to fine‑tune traction, braking and suspension settings.
However, at steady cruising speeds the turbo engine can be noisier, and road‑noise may be noticeable inside the cabin—something families looking for a serene Tet road‑trip might find less appealing.
Mazda’s CX‑5 relies on a naturally aspirated 2.0‑litre SkyActiv‑G engine in its base configuration, or a more potent 2.5‑litre SkyActiv‑G unit delivering 188 hp and 252 Nm of torque, paired with an i‑Stop smart‑start system. The larger engine provides smoother, quieter performance, especially on city streets, though it lacks the Destinator’s extensive off‑road drive‑mode suite.
Pricing, Incentives & Availability
Both SUVs sit comfortably within the under‑VND 1 billion segment. The CX‑5 is offered in several trims ranging from VND 749 million to VND 959 million. Ongoing dealer promotions often bring the price below the VND 700 million mark for limited units, and because the model is locally assembled, stock levels remain healthy throughout the Tet rush.
The Destinator, on the other hand, is imported and available in two trims priced between VND 780 million and VND 850 million. Recent reports indicate that inventory is already tight, and many buyers may have to wait beyond the Tet holidays to receive their vehicle.
Verdict: Which SUV Fits Your Spring Plans?
If you need a vehicle now, with plentiful stock and a refined, quiet ride, the Mazda CX‑5 is the safer bet. Its elegant design, ample features and consistent pricing make it a reliable family companion for holiday journeys.
If you value a bolder exterior, a slightly roomier cabin with optional third‑row seats, and are willing to wait for delivery, the Mitsubishi Destinator offers a fresh alternative that stands out on the road.
Ultimately, the choice comes down to whether you prioritize immediate availability and a smooth, subdued driving experience (CX‑5) or a more rugged look, extra seating flexibility and the thrill of a turbocharged powerplant (Destinator). Whichever you decide, both models are solid contenders in Vietnam’s competitive C‑segment SUV market.