Toyota RAV4 Vs. Mazda CX-5 Full Comparison
Mazda CX-5 Versus Toyota RAV4 at a Glance
- With its standard hybrid powertrain, the 2026 Toyota RAV4 delivers more horsepower and higher fuel ratings, while the Mazda CX-5 has a slight edge in torque.
- These compact crossovers have similar dimensions, but the RAV4 offers more cargo volume.
- The RAV4 has improved wireless connectivity, while the CX-5 has larger displays.
- Both models are equipped with an array of driver assistance and safety technology.
Compare the Toyota RAV4 vs. Mazda CX-5 alongside our team here at DARCARS Toyota of Silver Spring. While both compact five-seat SUVs have a lot to offer, the RAV4 stands out with its additional cargo space and capable and efficient hybrid powertrain – you'll only find a gas engine in the CX-5 lineup. Read on to see how the complete showdown shakes out.
Toyota RAV4 vs. Mazda CX-5 Engine & Performance
The first category is the all-important engine and performance specs arena. For 2026, the Toyota RAV4 received a significant redesign, which included dropping its previously standard gas-only engine in favor of an all-hybrid lineup.
This year's standard hybrid setup pairs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors for 226 net horsepower and front-wheel-drive capability. Opting for available all-wheel drive adds a third motor and increases horsepower to 236. Both versions generate 170 pound-feet of torque and use an e-CVT with sequential shift mode.
In comparison, the CX-5 only offers a gas-powered 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. All 2026 CX-5 variants have AWD and a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode.
If you plan to tackle challenging terrain or towing duties, the RAV4 has the advantage. In terms of ride height, the RAV4 starts at 8.1 inches, which increases to 8.5 inches with the rugged Woodland edition. Alternatively, the CX-5 comes with 8 or 8.2 inches, depending on the trim. As for towing, most AWD RAV4 SUVs (excluding LE AWD) can pull 3,500 pounds, while FWD setups still manage 1,750 pounds. The CX-5 falls significantly short with a 1,500-pound maximum tow rating.
Not only does the RAV4 bring stronger overall performance to the table, but it's also the clear winner when it comes to fuel efficiency. For example, FWD models earn an EPA-estimated 47/40/43 MPG (City/Highway/Combined), while select AWD versions top out at 46/39/42 MPG (City/Highway/Combined). For the gas-only CX-5, you can expect a much less efficient EPA-estimated 24/30/26 MPG (City/Highway/Combined) across the board.
| 2026 Toyota RAV4 | 2026 Mazda CX-5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Engine | 2.5L 4-cyl hybrid | 2.5L 4-cyl |
| Horsepower | 226 - 236 | 187 |
| Torque | 170 lb-ft | 186 lb-ft |
| Transmission | e-CVT | 6-speed auto |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD | AWD |
| Max. Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs | 1,500 lbs |
| Max. EPA-Est. MPG (City / Hwy / Comb) | 47 / 40 / 43 (FWD models) | 24 / 30 / 26 |
| Ground Clearance | 8.1 - 8.5 in | 8 - 8.2 in |
If you want even higher fuel numbers, consider the Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid variant, which achieves up to an EPA-estimated 101 MPGe (Combined) and 54 miles of electric-only range.
Toyota RAV4 vs. Mazda CX-5 Interior & Exterior Dimensions
Now that you've seen the dominant Toyota SUV performance, let's compare Mazda CX-5 and RAV4 interior and exterior dimensions. Both models have seating for five and a similar overall size. As you'll see in the chart below, the CX-5 has a slight edge in legroom and headroom across both rows.
However, these extra inches of passenger room are outweighed by the larger cargo space of the RAV4, which is still plenty comfortable for all occupants. With all seats in use, the Toyota SUV gives you an additional 4.1 cubic feet over the CX-5. Lower the back rows in both models, and you'll find a similar difference of an extra 3.9 cubic feet in the RAV4.
| 2026 Toyota RAV4 | 2026 Mazda CX-5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 181 - 182 in | 184.6 in |
| Width | 73 - 74 in | 73.2 in |
| Height | 66.5 in | 66.7 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Legroom (Front / Rear) | 41 / 37.8 in | 41.7 / 39.9 in |
| Headroom (Front / Rear) | 37.9 / 39.5 in | 39.2 - 39.7 / 39.1 - 40.2 in |
| Cargo Space (Behind Rear / Front Row) | 37.8 / 70.4 cu ft | 33.7 / 66.5 cu ft |
Want to see how the RAV4 stacks up against another competing compact crossover? Read our Toyota RAV4 vs. Nissan Rogue comparison guide.
Toyota RAV4 vs. Mazda CX-5 Features & Trims
Finally, let's look at Mazda CX-5 versus Toyota RAV4 appointments. The RAV4 has a six-trim menu with value-packed, adventurous, and sporty interpretations; the five-tier CX-5 emphasizes overall sportiness and premium touches.
Inside the RAV4, you'll find a standard infotainment system with a 10.5-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ capability, and a six-speaker sound system. The penultimate XSE upgrades to a 12.9-inch display, while the range-topping Limited adds a nine-speaker JBL® premium audio system to the mix.
Admittedly, the CX-5 comes standard with a 12.9-inch touchscreen and an eight-speaker audio system, with available 15.6-inch display and 12-speaker Bose® sound system upgrades. However, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration is available – you'll need a wired connection in the entry-level trim. Wireless device charging is available in both SUVs, but the RAV4 gives you up to two pads, while the CX-5 only offers one.
You'll find a capable suite of driver-assistance technologies with either model that's designed to enhance safety and reliability. While feature names may vary for the CX-5, both SUVs include these standard technologies:
- Backup Camera
- Front & Rear Park Assist
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Safe Exit Alert
- Proactive Drive Assist
- Road Sign Assist
- Lane Departure Alert
- Lane Tracing Assist
- Radar Cruise Control
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
Explore our overview of Toyota RAV4 trim levels to select the right configuration for your lifestyle.
Buy a New or Used Toyota RAV4 at DARCARS Toyota of Silver Spring
So, "Is the Mazda CX-5 better than the RAV4?" There's room for nuance, but we believe the RAV4 takes the crown with more horsepower, significantly better fuel efficiency, extra cargo space, and value-packed trims. Plus, it offers drivers Core, Rugged, and Sport styles, while the CX-5 sticks to athletic styling, relying on premium entry-level amenities to compensate.
If you're in our area and declare the RAV4 your personal winner, check out our new Toyota inventory to find your ideal configuration. You can also visit DARCARS Toyota of Silver Spring for a tour and test drive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Mazda CX-5 better than the RAV4?
Whether or not the RAV4 or CX-5 is better for you depends on your personal preferences, but the Toyota model has several key wins, including better fuel economy, horsepower, and cargo volume.
Is a Toyota RAV4 bigger than a Mazda CX-5?
The RAV4 and CX-5 have very similar exterior dimensions, though the Mazda SUV is slightly longer:
- Length (RAV4 vs. CX-5): 181-182 vs. 184.6 inches
- Body Width (RAV4 vs. CX-5): 73-74 vs. 73.2 inches
- Height (RAV4 vs. CX-5): 66.5 vs. 66.7 inches
Does the Toyota RAV4 or Mazda CX-5 have better gas mileage?
The RAV4 has significantly better gas mileage, with up to an EPA-estimated 43 or 42 MPG (Combined) with FWD and AWD, respectively. In contrast, the CX-5 tops out at an estimated 26 MPG (Combined).
Featured Customer Review for Toyota RAV4
Angel Gabriel
05/28/2026
We had an amazing experience at DARCARS Toyota of Silver Spring! Henry was incredibly helpful throughout the entire process of helping us purchase a 2026 Toyota RAV4 SE. From start to finish, everything was smooth, seamless, and stress-free. He was knowledgeable, patient, and made sure my mom and I felt comfortable every step of the way. A special thank you as well to Kwame in finance, who did a fantastic job explaining everything clearly and making the final steps easy and efficient. My mom and I are extremely pleased with her new car purchase and truly appreciate the excellent customer service we received. I highly recommend asking for Henry and Kwame if you visit!