The Mazda CX-5 and Toyota RAV4 are two of our top-rated picks in the crowded compact SUV class. Each has a unique set of strengths, so let’s take a closer look at these two SUVs to see which one is right for you.
2022 Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 is a sporty and semi-premium choice in compact SUVs. It benefits from one of the most beautiful interiors in its class, four-wheel drive (AWD) as standard and an enjoyable driving experience, especially with the optional turbo engine. The price starts at $26,250. Praise yours or View offers near you†
Mazda CX-5 Highlights
Luxurious interior: The Mazda CX-5 has a premium interior without a premium price tag. The luxurious interior design is something you would expect in a more expensive car, and the material quality is excellent for this price. It’s especially chic in the Turbo Signature model with features like Caturra Brown Nappa leather seats and real wood trim.
Lower base price: The CX-5 has a starting price of $26,250 and comes standard with AWD, while the most affordable AWD-equipped RAV4 starts at $28,375. If your climate or operations require AWD, the CX-5 can be a strong value proposition.
Fun to drive: The Mazda CX-5 is one of the most entertaining SUVs in its class from behind the wheel. Motoring enthusiasts who need a practical SUV will appreciate the CX-5, especially when upgraded with the available turbocharged 256 hp engine.
2022 Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 is America’s best-selling SUV for a reason. It’s safe, reliable and practical, and the size is just right for many drivers. Some of the best advantages are the spacious interior and the wide variety of models, including two hybrids. The price starts at $26,975. Praise yours or View offers near you†
Toyota RAV4 Highlights
Excellent fuel economy: The Toyota RAV4 benefits from low fuel consumption regardless of your configuration. The Toyota has two hybrid options (a conventional hybrid and the plug-in hybrid RAV4 Prime), while the Mazda does not offer hybrid versions. Even the least efficient variant of the RAV4 is still more efficient than the most efficient CX-5.
Spacious interior: The RAV4 has a significantly larger interior than the CX-5. The Toyota has a few extra inches of rear legroom and significantly more cargo space than the Mazda. The RAV4 has approximately 7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and a significant 10.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo space with the rear seats folded compared to the CX-5.
Rugged TRD Off-Road Model: While the CX-5 comes standard with AWD, it’s not quite an off-roader. The Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road model has some impressive off-road capabilities. In addition to the standard AWD with torque vectoring, the TRD model comes with off-road suspension, all-terrain tires and a rugged exterior.
agreements
Good safety ratings, standard Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, comparable technical driver assistance features
Conclusion
The Toyota RAV4 is more practical and family-friendly thanks to its larger interior and lower fuel consumption. However, the Mazda CX-5 is the more stylish and athletic choice, especially with its available turbocharged engine. Which one is right for you depends on your priorities.
| 2022 Mazda CX-5 | 2022 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Starting price | $26,250 | $26,975 |
| Popular powertrains | ||
| engine | 2.5-litre 4-cylinder | 2.5-litre 4-cylinder |
| horsepower | 187 hp @ 6,000 rpm | 203 hp @ 6,600 rpm |
| Couple | 186 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm | 184 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm |
| Transfer | 6-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Fuel economy | 24 city/30 highway/26 combined mpg | 27 city/35 highway/30 combined mpg |
| Also available | 2.5-litre turbo-4 | Hybrid, plug-in hybrid, AWD |
| Specifications: | ||
| Basic warranty | 3 years/36,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Powertrain warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| NHTSA General Safety Assessment | 5 stars | 5 stars |
| Maximum seating capacity | 5 | 5 |
| wheelbase | 106.2 inches | 105.9 inches |
| Total length | 180.1 inch | 180.9 inches |
| Width | 72.6 inches | 73.0 inches |
| Height | 65.6 inches | 67.0 inches |
| turning diameter: | 36.0 feet | 36.1 feet |
| Headroom, front | 39.7 inches | 39.5 inches |
| Headroom, rear | 39.0 inches | 39.5 inches |
| Legroom, front | 41.0 inches | 41.0 inches |
| Legroom, rear | 39.6 inches | 37.8 inches |
| Shoulder room, front | 57.1 inches | 57.8 inches |
| Shoulder room, rear | 54.8 inches | 56.4 inches |
| Freight volume | 30.8/59.3 cubic feet | 37.6/69.8 cubic feet |
