Toyota RAV4 Vs. Mazda CX-5 Full Comparison
If you're in the market for a compact SUV, knowing the difference between the Toyota RAV4 vs. Mazda CX-5 can be a major help. These two well-known models sport an array of benefits and exciting features, but one has the upper hand in various categories. See how the 2025 Toyota RAV4 and 2025 Mazda CX-5 stack up, then visit DARCARS Toyota of Silver Spring to take the winner – the RAV4 – for a spin.
Mazda CX-5 Versus Toyota RAV4 at a Glance
- The Toyota RAV4 offers higher standard horsepower and better overall fuel efficiency
- These compact SUVs have similar exterior and interior dimensions, but the RAV4 boasts more standard and maximum cargo space
- The 2025 Toyota RAV4 features more impressive standard and available cabin amenities
- Explore how the victorious RAV4 can revolutionize your day-to-day at DARCARS Toyota of Silver Spring
Toyota RAV4 vs. Mazda CX-5 Engine & Performance
To start off this matchup, we compare Mazda CX-5 and RAV4 specs to see how the Toyota SUV showcases its determination to provide affordable yet impressive performance. The 2025 Toyota RAV4 comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. Meanwhile, the Mazda CX-5 boasts just 187 horsepower along with 186 pound-feet of torque via its standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder unit.
Furthermore, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 features i-Activ AWD® as its only drivetrain option, while the RAV4 provides three choices: FWD, AWD, and Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD.
The Toyota RAV4 continues to surpass the competition when it comes to off-road performance. Not only does the RAV4 have a standard ground clearance of 8.4 inches, but specific trims even offer 8.6 inches. The Mazda CX-5 slots in below the RAV4 with a minimum ride height of 7.6 or 7.9 inches, depending on the trim.
If efficiency is key, you will love what the 2025 RAV4 offers. This SUV achieves up to an EPA-estimated 27/35 MPG (City/Highway),1 whereas the Mazda CX-5 earns a lower EPA-estimated 26/30 MPG (City/Highway)2 at its maximum. To boot, there are also Toyota RAV4 hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants available, further enhancing fuel efficiency; the Mazda CX-5 does not offer such options.
| Toyota RAV4 | MAZDA CX-5 | |
| Standard Engine | 2.5L 4-cyl | 2.5L 4-cyl |
| Standard Power Output | 203 hp, 184 lb-ft of torque | 187 hp, 186 lb-ft of torque |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain |
|
i-Activ AWD® |
| Max Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs3 | 2,000 lbs4 |
| Max EPA-Est. MPG (City / Hwy) | 27 / 351 | 26 / 302 |
| Ground Clearance | 8.4 - 8.6 in | 7.6 - 7.9 in |
Toyota RAV4 vs. Mazda CX-5 Interior & Exterior Dimensions
Both compact SUVs offer ample room for your cargo, but the RAV4 comes out ahead. The 2025 Toyota RAV4 creates a maximum of 69.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seat folded, which is ideal for soccer practice equipment, luggage, and small house projects. Meanwhile, the Mazda CX-5 provides only 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seat flat. This difference is also present in the cargo area behind the second row, with the RAV4 boasting 37.5 cubic feet and the Mazda CX-5 offering just 29.1 cubic feet.
In terms of Toyota RAV4 vs. Mazda CX-5 passenger dimensions, these SUVs have similar measurements in the front and second rows, with slight discrepancies. For example, while the 2025 Mazda CX-5 has more rear legroom, the 2025 Toyota RAV4 features more headroom in the rear. Exterior dimensions also rival each other.
| Toyota RAV4 | MAZDA CX-5 | |
| Length | 180.9 in | 180.1 in |
| Width | 73 in | 72.6 in |
| Height | 67 - 67.2 in | 65.4 - 65.6 in |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Legroom (Front / Rear) | 41 / 37.8 in | 41 / 39.6 in |
| Headroom (Front / Rear) | 37.7 / 39.5 in (with moonroof) | 39.3 / 39 in (with moonroof) |
| Cargo Space (Behind Rear / Front Row) | 37.5 / 69.8 cu ft | 29.1 / 59.3 cu ft |
Toyota RAV4 vs. Mazda CX-5 Features & Trims
Taking a look at features, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 has a standard 4.6-inch multi-information display, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, and a four-speaker sound system. The multi-information display increases to a 7-inch variant and the sound system upgrades to a Bose® 10-speaker audio system in higher-end configurations.
Infotainment features in the 2025 Toyota RAV4 comprise a standard 7-inch multi-information display, an 8-inch touchscreen, and a six-speaker sound system. Upgrades are even more enticing, with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a 10.5-inch touchscreen, and a JBL® 11-speaker audio system. Plus, the RAV4 comes standard with wireless smartphone integration via Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay® as well as three USB ports. The Mazda CX-5 struggles to keep up, as it has just two standard USB ports, and you have to move up to a higher trim to access wireless smartphone connectivity.
However, both the Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5 come with excellent driver-assist technology that enhances the safety and reliability of your ride. For example, the RAV4 features a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, and Lane Tracing Assist. Comparatively, the Mazda CX-5 offers Advanced Smart City Brake Support with Pedestrian Detection, Mazda Radar Cruise Control, and Lane Keep Assist.
In terms of choice, the Toyota RAV4 trim levels include four variants. The Mazda CX-5, on the other hand, has eight trims to select from.
Of course, there are also the electrified RAV4 trims to consider. Seven Toyota RAV4 Hybrid trims are offered, and two Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid editions are available.
Buy a New or Used Toyota RAV4 at DARCARS Toyota of Silver Spring
So, "is Mazda CX-5 better than RAV4?" We think so. In the categories of performance, size, and features, we hope we've shown how the Toyota RAV4 wins the battle. To explore the Toyota RAV4 in Silver Spring, MD, further, visit us soon. You can start browsing our new Toyota inventory online and schedule a test drive at your convenience.
Want to see the RAV4 take on more of the competition? Check out our detailed Toyota RAV4 vs. Nissan Rogue comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mazda CX-5 better than RAV4?
You can find refined performance and admirable features with both the Mazda CX-5 and Toyota RAV4. However, we believe the Toyota RAV4 offers more value. From a more efficient powertrain to a more extensive cargo area to more impressive features, the RAV4 arguably takes the cake in this Toyota RAV4 vs. Mazda CX-5 comparison. See it in action today.
Is a Toyota RAV4 bigger than a Mazda CX-5?
Yes, the Toyota RAV4 is bigger than the Mazda CX-5 overall. It is 180.9 inches long, 73 inches wide, and up to 67.2 inches tall. The Mazda CX-5 is 180.1 inches long, 72.6 inches wide, and up to 65.6 inches tall. Additionally, the Toyota RAV4 has more standard and maximum cargo space than the Mazda CX-5.
Does the Toyota RAV4 or Mazda CX-5 have better gas mileage?
The Toyota RAV4 has better gas mileage ratings than the Mazda CX-5. The 2025 RAV4 reaches an EPA-estimated 27/35 MPG (City/Highway).1 Meanwhile, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 renders up to an EPA-estimated 26/30 MPG (City/Highway).2 The Toyota SUV also offers hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants that further distance the RAV4 from the competition.
Featured Customer Review for Toyota RAV4
Naryane Dos Reis
03/21/2024
Good service from Junior Villatoro with my RAV4, thank you!!