If you're ready for your next compact SUV, exploring the differences between the Mazda CX-5 vs. Toyota RAV4 with our guide can be a great first step. These two models are extremely popular: the Toyota RAV4 for its hybrid engine, and the Mazda CX-5 for its spacious cabin, enticing lineup of features, and standard AWD. As you'll see when you visit Gunther Mazda, the advantages of the Mazda compact SUV outpace what the Toyota automobile can offer.
Both models have made fairly significant changes for 2026. The Toyota RAV4, for instance, has dropped its non-hybrid engine, meaning the only options available are a partially electric or the plug-in hybrid variant. While great for fuel economy, the Toyota RAV4 has never been more expensive than in 2026. It has a slightly different style, and some customization choices are hidden behind higher-end trims.
The Mazda CX-5 exterior still evokes the Mazda look that makes the lineup feel welcoming, and its new 110.8-inch wheelbase creates a larger, sturdier-looking body. The new Mazda CX-5 colors include Navy Blue Mica, alongside returning fan favorites like Soul Red Crystal.
The highly efficient i-ACTIV AWD® system has also been improved, providing even better control through every turn. The cabin has received a massive upgrade in nearly every category, with much more rear legroom (up to 39.9 inches) and extra cargo space (33.7 cubic feet in the trunk). The standard touchscreen is 12.9 inches large and can be upgraded to 15.6 inches. Connect to your devices with ease thanks to a comprehensive Google Built-In suite. And benefit from an array of sensor technology that earned the 2026 Mazda CX-5 the Top Safety Pick+ Award from the IIHS.1
| Mazda CX-5 | Toyota RAV4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.5L 4-cyl | 2.5L hybrid 4-cyl |
| Horsepower | 187 | 226 - 236 |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft | 170 lb-ft (Motor) |
| Drivetrain | i-ACTIV AWD® | FWD, AWD avail |
| Transmission | 6-speed auto w/ manual shift | ECVT |
| Max EPA-Est. AWD MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | 24 / 30 / 262 | 46 / 39 / 423 |
| Standard Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs4 | 1,750 lbs5 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 110.8 in | 105.9 in |
| Length | 184.6 in | 181 - 182 in |
| Width | 73.2 in | 73 - 74 in |
| Height | 66.7 in | 66.5 in |
| Headroom (Front / Rear) | 39.7 / 40.2 in | 37.9 / 39.5 in |
| Legroom (Front / Rear) | 41.7 / 39.9 in | 41 / 37.8 in |
| Cargo Volume (Trunk / Max) | 33.7 / 66.5 cu ft | 37.8 / 70.4 cu ft |
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| IIHS Safety Award | Top Safety Pick+1 | Not Rated |
As shown in the above chart, the Mazda CX-5 and Toyota RAV4 are both highly efficient. The Mazda CX-5 utilizes a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine to produce 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. Prioritizing efficiency, the Mazda CX-5 reaches an EPA-estimated 24/30/26 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)2 with its standard AWD drivetrain. In addition, the new Mazda CX-5 towing capacity of 1,500 pounds4 is perfect for canoes and some fishing boats.
The Toyota RAV4 now offers a fully hybrid lineup. However, that also makes the RAV4 more expensive, with a significant price bump over the Mazda CX-5. Despite the price disparity, it comes standard with FWD.
The competition gets more intense once one delves into the Mazda CX-5 vs. Toyota RAV4 dimensions. The Mazda CX-5 is the larger of the two models, at 184.6 inches long. Where the Toyota RAV4 gives its rear two passengers only 37.8 inches of legroom, the Mazda CX-5 provides a nearly front-row experience with 39.9 inches of legroom. The Mazda SUV also offers more headroom across both rows: up to 39.7 inches in the front and 40.2 inches in the rear. The Toyota RAV4 tries to compensate with more storage space, but the Mazda CX-5 cargo space stays in close competition: 33.7 cubic feet in the trunk is plenty for luggage, coolers, chairs, and tent kits.
The Mazda CX-5 trims are simple and straightforward. As of this writing, there are currently five options:
These trims add upgrades linearly, such as larger screens and higher-grade materials. These include different interior materials: cloth for the S model, leatherette for the Select and Preferred variants, and leather for Mazda CX-5 Premium and Premium Plus.
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 has six trims:
Unlike the simple Mazda CX-5 levels, the Toyota RAV4 lineup is not a single upgrade path. That's thanks to the Woodland, an off-road-centric RAV4 iteration that replaces some upgrades you receive from previous trims, such as the available digital rearview mirror, with LED fog lights and specially designed roof rails. Again, it's worth noting that the entry-level RAV4 is more expensive than the Mazda CX-5 2.5 S; this disparity continues across both models' lineups.
No matter which trim you choose, the Mazda CX-5 can match or exceed the Toyota RAV4's cabin in technology, comfort, and safety. Take upholstery, for example: The Mazda CX-5 coats the interior of the Premium and Premium Plus variants with genuine leather seating, while the Toyota RAV4 offers only cloth or leatherette seats. Speaking of seats, the Toyota RAV4 only has eight-way power seats, while the Mazda CX-5 has 10-way adjustability, though both models are available with lumbar support.
The high-end feel of the Mazda CX-5 extends to technology, too. The Toyota RAV4 has a 10.5-inch central touchscreen as standard, which upgrades to a 12.9-inch screen on the penultimate XSE variant. The Mazda CX-5 starts with a 12.9-inch screen and can be outfitted with a 15.6-inch display, with an intuitive, easy-to-reach console that uses built-in Google technology to seamlessly connect to your apps and navigation. The Toyota RAV4 has a six-speaker sound system and a nine-speaker option, while the Mazda CX-5 has an eight-speaker baseline and a 12-speaker Bose® premium audio system on higher trims.
Safety is the last point we'll compare, and both models come out very strong. The Toyota RAV4 uses an array of features called Toyota Safety Sense 4.0. It includes standard safety sensors like Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Lane Tracing Assist. However, the Mazda CX-5 has the credentials to back up its standard suite: The IIHS awarded it the Top Safety Pick+ Award for 2026,1 while the Toyota RAV4 is still unrated (and did not win this accolade in 2025). The Mazda CX-5 is proud to protect your family with a variety of dynamic safety options, including:
In addition, for standard safety, the Mazda CX-5 goes the distance: for example, the Mazda SUV has a Windshield-Projected Active Driving Display as soon as the third-level Preferred trim. The Toyota RAV4 only has an optional Head-Up Display on its top trim.
As our Mazda CX-5 vs. Toyota RAV4 comparison has shown, the Mazda SUV has a distinctive edge in both comfort and safety. Visit our dealership to test drive it, and see how those extra elements rise to comfort you.
While the Toyota RAV4 has an edge in cargo space, the Mazda CX-5 stays competitive, promising 66.5 cubic feet of overall storage volume. The Mazda CX-5 is built for passenger comfort, with 39.9 inches of rear-row legroom (vs. 37.8 inches in the RAV4). The Mazda CX-5 lets adults relax in the back while you store luggage and coolers in the back.
The standard ride height of the Toyota RAV4 is 8.1 inches. The Mazda CX-5 has a ride height of 8 or 8.2 inches, depending on your trim level. While the Toyota RAV4 can reach up to 8.5 inches with the specialized Woodland model, the Mazda CX-5 always has AWD, improving control compared to the Toyota SUV's FWD.
While there are plenty of reasons to prefer either model, the Mazda CX-5 does more for your money. With a lower base price, you'll get more compelling features, including a 12.9-inch touchscreen and an eight-speaker audio system, plus safety options that earned the Mazda CX-5 a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS.1 The Toyota RAV4 is simpler with its standard cabin.
Yes, the Mazda CX-5 is bigger than the Toyota RAV4; it measures 184.6 inches in length, compared to a maximum of 182 inches. As a result, the Mazda CX-5 has the advantage in both legroom and headroom: If you want nearly 40 inches of rear-row legroom and over 40 inches of rear-row headroom, the Mazda CX-5 is your choice.
The Mazda model most comparable to a Toyota RAV4 is the Mazda CX-5. This model is similar in size to the RAV4 and offers comfortable seating for five. However, the Mazda CX-5 exceeds the RAV4's second-row capacity and offers a larger touchscreen and available options like leather upholstery, which the RAV4 does not have.
The Mazda CX-5 is a popular pick among families for its versatility. It offers plenty of third-row space, an excellent lineup of features, and fantastic fuel economy without a hybrid engine, plus standard AWD for better control.
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1Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.iihs.org
2EPA-estimated mileage. Actual results will vary.
3Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle’s condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
4Towing capacities shown are maximums and must be reduced by the weight of any passenger, cargo hitch or optional equipment in the towing vehicle. Please refer to vehicle Owner’s Manual for details regarding towing capacities and other valuable information. Towing a trailer may have an effect on vehicle’s handling, braking, durability, performance and driving economy. For specific information on recommended or required equipment, see your Mazda Dealer. Hitches are available through manufacturers other than Mazda.
5Before towing, confirm your vehicle and trailer are compatible, hooked up and loaded properly and that you have any necessary additional equipment. Do not exceed any Weight Ratings and follow all instructions in your Owner’s Manual. The maximum you can tow depends on base curb weight plus the total weight of any cargo, occupants, and added vehicle equipment. “Added vehicle equipment” includes additional standard/optional equipment and accessories added by the manufacturer, dealers, and/or vehicle owners. The only way to be certain of your vehicle’s exact curb weight is to weigh your vehicle without passengers or cargo. (Calculated with the new SAE J2807 method.) Installation of a tow hitch receiver or other accessories located near the rear bumper or side-door kick sensors may require disabling or removing the kick sensor, and the sensor operation setting in your vehicle should be turned off. See Owner’s Manual for limitations.
