Mazda CX-5 vs. Toyota RAV4
Compact SUVs are some of the most popular vehicles on the market. They are sporty, stylish, and fun to drive! Two of the top compact SUVs on the market today are the Mazda CX-5 and the Toyota RAV4. Both have a reputation for high quality craftsmanship and reliable performance, in addition to being some of the most stylish SUVs available.
Though the Mazda CX-5 and the Toyota RAV4 have a lot to offer, once you start looking closely at them both, you’ll see some differences emerging, and the Mazda CX-5 will rise to the top. You’ll be able to shop for high quality new and previously owned versions of the CX-5 at Seacoast Mazda, and our knowledgeable associates will help you learn about what makes the SUV the superior choice.
Take a closer look at how the Mazda CX-5 compares with the Toyota RAV4 to better understand why it’s the better choice for almost all drivers:
Power and Performance
The compact SUV isn’t the vehicle of choice for those who want a ton of horsepower or the ability to range over rough terrain. However, people still expect a little more from an SUV than they would get from a sedan. The Mazda CX-5 excels over the Toyota RAV4 here - it usually offers more power and better performance, as well as more options for configuration.
In recent models of the Mazda CX-5 and the Toyota RAV4, you can usually expect to find a couple of engine options in the CX-5 but only one option in the RAV4. Some recent engine options on the Mazda CX-5 include a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine and a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine, while the Toyota RAV4 has offered standard four-cylinders. The CX-5 has also offered a turbodiesel engine.
Mazda CX-5 models of recent years have offered more horsepower and more torque, allowing them to speed up faster and to handle rougher terrain. You’ll also be able to tow more with the Mazda CX-5, which can come in handy when you are moving or handling special jobs.
Exterior Styling
Mazda has been committed to improving its overall design across its lineup for many years now. You can look at the Mazda CX-5 and the Toyota RAV4 parked side-by-side and immediately see that the CX-5 has superior styling. The CX-5 has graceful, sweeping lines that create a sophisticated and luxurious profile. It has subtle touches throughout that add to the overall elegance, such as a geometric grille outlined in chrome and accented with the Mazda logo in the center.
The Toyota RAV4 is stylish in its own way, but it doesn’t have any of the sophistication of the Mazda CX-5. The RAV4 looks more like a vehicle designed for off-roading and other rough work, though it doesn’t back that up with the increased power and performance. It has rougher edges and a more basic design. Based on appearance alone, you might expect it to fall into a lower category than the Mazda CX-5.
Interior Styling and Features
When it comes to the interior of the Mazda CX-5 and the Toyota RAV4, it turns out that the old adage “You can’t judge a book by its cover” proves to be false. Because what you see on the outside of these compact SUVs is exactly what you get on the inside. The Mazda CX-5 looks like a luxury vehicle inside and out. You’ll find high-quality materials in the cabin, along with an elegance of design. Depending on the configuration of the CX-5 you choose, you can get features like leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, chrome accents, heated and ventilated seating, and more.
The interior of the Toyota RAV4 is pleasant enough, but it includes a lot of harsh angles and bulky materials, which undercut the look of the space. The interior is more functional than it is aesthetically pleasing. You’ll be able to upgrade with higher trim levels, but even at the top trim levels, the interior of the RAV4 never looks as good as the interior of the CX-5.
The Toyota RAV4 has more cargo space than the Mazda CX-5, but the CX-5 includes more passenger space, including more leg room.
Interior Technology and Safety Features
Mazda has been at the cutting edge of design for some time now, and that has extended to its technology, as well. The Mazda CX-5 is just as fun to drive as it looks. It is loaded with great convenience features that you don’t find on the Toyota RAV4. For example, the CX-5 comes standard with a larger display screen that is only optional on the RAV4. The CX-5 also offers the HMI Commander System, which puts all infotainment controls at the touch of a knob conveniently located at the end of the console. Other great features include a windshield-projected active driving display, automatic climate control, steering wheel-mounted controls, and more. You’ll get some of these features in the Toyota RAV4, but none of the higher-end options.
The Mazda CX-5 also offers a host of advanced safety features. The CX-5 includes the i-Active driver assistance programs, including blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, and brake support. Again, you may get some of these features on the RAV4, but most usually only at higher trim levels or with add-ons.
Choosing the Perfect Mazda CX-5 for You
At Seacoast Mazda, we offer a wide selection of new and previously owned Mazdas, giving you the opportunity to choose from a variety of configurations, so you can find the perfect vehicle at the perfect price. Visit us today to work with a knowledgeable associate to find the perfect Mazda CX-5 for you. This luxurious looking SUV offers exceptional performance and is packed with great features to make driving fun. We’ll help you find the right combination of features to give you everything you want in your SUV at the budget you have set. Visit us today to explore our selection and to talk with a finance specialist about current offers.