[2026 Latest Edition] Mazda CX-5 vs. Toyota RAV4: A Thorough Comparison! Which Should You Choose? Complete Explanation of Price, Performance, and Fuel Economy

A thorough comparison of the 2026 Mazda CX-5 vs. Toyota RAV4. If you’re looking for value for money, choose the CX-5 (starting at ¥3.1 million, with one of the largest interior spaces). If you’re looking for fuel economy, choose the RAV4 HEV (26.0 km/L). If you’re looking for performance, choose the RAV4 PHEV (324 hp, 5.8 seconds). Also, consider the 2,815 mm wheelbase vs. 749 liters of luggage, Google vs. Arene. We’ll cover recommendations for each use and provide a complete guide to purchasing.

1. Latest trends of the 2026 CX-5 and RAV4 models

Mazda CX-5 (scheduled for release in May 2026)

Mazda’s flagship mid-class SUV, the CX-5, will have its world premiere on July 10, 2025 , and is scheduled to go on sale in Japan in May 2026. This full model change will be a major evolution of this popular model , which has sold over 4.5 million units globally .

Main features:

Reference: Complete guide to the new Mazda CX-5 full model change

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A complete guide to the new Mazda CX-5 | 2026 release information マツダのベストセラーSUV「CX-5」が、2025年10月のジャパンモビリティショー(JMS)2025で日本初公開されました。2017年の2代目登場から約8年ぶりとなる今回のフルモデル…

Toyota RAV4 (released in December 2025)

The Toyota RAV4 will begin selling its sixth-generation fully redesigned model on December 17, 2025. With this improvement, gasoline vehicles will be discontinued , and the lineup will consist only of HEVs (hybrids) and PHEVs (plug-in hybrids).

Main features:

Reference: Toyota’s new RAV4 full model change detailed explanation

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Toyota RAV4 Full Model Change: What are the attractive features of the interior and exterior that we saw in person? A thorough explanation of the advantages トヨタが2025年のジャパンモビリティショーで披露した新型RAV4は、前世代から約6年ぶりのフルモデルチェンジを果たしました。6代目となる新型RAV4は、3つのグレード構成…

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2. Thorough comparison of exteriors

Design Concept

Mazda CX-5:

• Further evolution of **KODO – Soul of Motion**
• **Refined toughness** is the keyword.
• A mature frame, elegant form, and a well-made texture
• A powerful presence thanks to the hexagonal grille and sharp LED headlights
• “MAZDA” logo on rear (changed from previous emblem)
• Dual exhaust and wide taillights create a sophisticated rear view

Toyota RAV4:

• A more stylish and urban design
• Dynamic feel thanks to wide and low stance
• Different personalities for each grade (CORE, ADVENTURE, GR SPORT)
• GR SPORT emphasizes its sportiness with exclusive aero parts
• A fusion of functional beauty and SUV-like strength

Body size comparison chart

item	Mazda CX-5	Toyota RAV4 HEV	Toyota RAV4 PHEV GR SPORT
full length	4,690mm	4,600mm	4,645mm
Overall width	1,860mm	1,855mm	1,880mm
Overall height	1,695mm	1,680mm	1,685mm
Wheelbase	2,815mm	2,690mm	2,690mm
minimum ground clearance	Approximately 200mm	Approximately 195mm	Approximately 190mm
Minimum turning radius	Approximately 5.5m	5.5 to 5.7 m	5.7m

Consideration:

3. Differences in interior and equipment

Cockpit Design

Mazda CX-5:

• 15.6-inch or 12.9-inch large display
• Built-in Google (supports Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play)
• 10.25-inch digital meter (3 display modes)
• 7-color ambient light system (extending to the door panels)
• Panoramic sunroof
• The steering wheel features the new “Mazda” logo.
• Hard button switches provide intuitive operation
• BOSE® Premium Sound System

Toyota RAV4:

• 10.5-inch or 12.9-inch display
• 12.3-inch digital meter
• Equipped with the software platform **”Arene”**
• Supports OTA (Over-The-Air) updates
• **EPB (Electric Parking Brake)** Standard equipment
• Multiple USB Type-C ports (supports up to 45W charging)
• HDMI port (GR SPORT)

Comparison of indoor space

Mazda CX-5:

• Wheelbase of 2,815mm increases distance between front and rear seats by 64mm
• Rear seat knee space**+29mm**
• Head clearance**+45mm**
• Enlarged rear doors significantly improve ease of entry and exit
• Space large enough for four adults over 170cm to sit comfortably
• Rear seats: Folding type (4:2:4 split), with one-touch folding lever

Toyota RAV4:

• Spacious rear seats thanks to a 2,690mm wheelbase
• Flat luggage floor
• High degree of freedom in rear seat arrangement
• A comfortable interior space is ensured in all grades

Luggage space comparison

item	Mazda CX-5	Toyota RAV4
Luggage capacity	583L	749L
Depth Expansion	+50mm	standard
Height expansion	+30mm	standard
When the rear seats are stowed	Approximately 2,019L	Approximately 1,600L (estimated)
Opening width	large opening	large opening

Consideration:

• The RAV4’s luggage capacity of 749L is overwhelming, 166L more than the CX-5.
• The CX-5 has been significantly improved by **+61L** from the previous model.
• If you often have to carry a lot of luggage, the RAV4 is the better choice.
• The CX-5 boasts an impressive 2,019 liters of space with the rear seats folded down.

4. Powertrain and driving performance comparison

Mazda CX-5

e-SKYACTIV G 2.5 (released in 2026):

• Engine: Inline 4-cylinder 2.5L gasoline
• Mild hybrid: 24V M hybrid system
• Maximum output: 190ps (141kW)
• Maximum torque: 238Nm (approx. 24.3kgm)
• Transmission: 6-speed automatic
• Drive system: FF/4WD
• WLTC fuel economy: Approx. 15.0km/L (estimated)

SKYACTIV-Z Strong Hybrid (scheduled for 2027):

• Engine: Inline 4-cylinder 2.5L gasoline
• Strong Hybrid: A new generation system based on Toyota THS
• Total system output: 270ps
• Maximum system torque: 50.0kgfm (approx. 490Nm)
• WLTC fuel economy: 22.0km/L (target value)

Toyota RAV4

HEV (Hybrid):

• Engine: 2.5L inline 4-cylinder DOHC (178ps / 221Nm)
• Motor (front): 120ps / 202Nm
• Motor (rear, E-Four): 54ps / 121Nm
• Total system output: FF 229ps / E-Four 239ps
• 0-100km/h acceleration: 8.1 seconds
• WLTC fuel economy: 22.5-26.0km/L

PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid):

• Engine: 2.5L inline 4-cylinder DOHC (177ps / 219Nm)
• Motor (front): 182ps / 270Nm
• Motor (rear): 54ps / 121Nm
• Total system output: 324ps
• Battery capacity: 22.7 kWh
• EV range: 150km (JC08 mode) / 85km (WLTC mode)
• 0-100km/h acceleration: 5.8 seconds
• WLTC fuel economy: 23.5km/L
• Supports fast charging (DC charging), V2H

Driving performance evaluation

Mazda CX-5:

• Mild hybrid for smooth acceleration and good response
• Extended wheelbase for excellent straight-line stability
• Handling that pursues the Mazda-like feeling of oneness between horse and rider
• The strong hybrid model to be added in 2027 will have a significantly improved power performance of 270ps.
• Improved quietness thanks to new-generation platform

Toyota RAV4:

• The PHEV’s 324ps and 5.8-second acceleration performance are the best in its class
• HEVs offer an excellent balance of fuel economy and power performance
• Excellent traction performance thanks to the E-Four system
• GR SPORT pursues sporty driving
• Highly efficient driving with 6th generation hybrid

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5. Fuel efficiency showdown

WLTC fuel economy comparison table

Model	Drive system	WLTC fuel economy
CX-5 e-SKYACTIV G 2.5	FF/4WD	Approximately 15.0km/L (estimated)
CX-5 SKYACTIV-Z HV (2027)	FF/4WD	22.0km/L (target)
RAV4 HEV	FF	26.0km/L
RAV4 HEV	E-Four	22.5km/L
RAV4 PHEV	E-Four	23.5km/L

Actual fuel consumption forecast (combined general road and highway)

Model	Actual fuel consumption prediction
CX-5 e-SKYACTIV G 2.5	12-14km/L
CX-5 SKYACTIV-Z HV (2027)	18-20km/L
RAV4 HEV (E-Four)	18-21km/L
RAV4 PHEV (excluding EV driving)	19-22km/L

Comparison of annual fuel costs (assuming 10,000km driven per year and gasoline at 170 yen/L)

Model	Actual fuel consumption	Annual fuel costs
CX-5 e-SKYACTIV G 2.5	13km/L	Approximately 130,770 yen
CX-5 SKYACTIV-Z HV (2027)	19km/L	Approximately 89,470 yen
RAV4 HEV (E-Four)	20km/L	Approximately 85,000 yen
RAV4 PHEV (EV 70% used)	Equivalent to 65km/L	Approximately 26,150 yen

Consideration:

• The RAV4 HEV FF boasts top fuel economy of 26.0km/L and excellent running costs.
• The RAV4 PHEV is extremely low-cost if you use EV driving (assuming home charging)
• The 2026 model of the CX-5 will be a mild hybrid with an estimated fuel economy of 15.0km/L.
• The 2027 CX-5 Strong Hybrid will achieve 22.0km/L , aiming for fuel economy equivalent to the RAV4 HEV E-Four.
• Mild hybrids offer significantly improved fuel economy compared to conventional gasoline vehicles.

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6. Safety equipment comparison

Mazda CX-5

i-ACTIVSENSE (standard on all cars):

• Automatic braking with improved accuracy in nighttime pedestrian recognition
• Adaptive LED headlights (precise control with split LEDs)
• Adaptive cruise control (full speed tracking, from stop to restart)
• Lane Keep Assist
• Automatic braking system when reversing
• Blind Spot Monitor
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert

Driver Emergency Response System (DEA):

• Detects sudden changes in the driver’s physical condition or drowsiness
• An alarm will sound and the vehicle will automatically stop if there is no response.
• After ensuring safety, turn on the hazard lights and sound the horn.

Other safety equipment:

• 3D View Monitor
• 360-degree camera
• Driver Monitoring System

Toyota RAV4

Latest Toyota Safety Sense (standard on all models):

• Pre-crash safety (for pedestrians, bicycles, and motorcycles )
• Roadside evacuation function (PDA: Automatic emergency stop system)
• Sudden acceleration suppression function
• Lane Tracing Assist
• Radar cruise control (full speed tracking)
• Automatic high beam

Parking Assistance:

• **3D PVM (Panoramic View Monitor)** compatible
• Advanced Park (with remote function)
• 360-degree camera

Other safety equipment:

• Blind Spot Monitor
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert

Safety performance evaluation

Mazda CX-5:

• i-ACTIVSENSE comprehensive driving assistance
• Driver Emergency Response (DEA) is an industry-leading safety feature
• Adaptive LED headlights for improved nighttime visibility
• Embodying Mazda’s “human-centered safety philosophy”

Toyota RAV4:

• **Roadside Avoidance Function (PDA)** is the most advanced in the industry
• Wide range of target recognition capabilities, even detecting motorcycles
• Enhanced parking assistance with 3D PVM and Advanced Park
• Sudden acceleration suppression function prevents false starts

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7. Price and grade structure

Mazda CX-5 Price List (Estimated)

grade	Powertrain	Drive	Price (tax included, estimated)
Base grade	e-SKYACTIV G 2.5	FF	Approximately 3,100,000 yen
Intermediate Grade	e-SKYACTIV G 2.5	FF	Approximately 3,500,000 yen
Higher grade	e-SKYACTIV G 2.5	FF	Approximately 4,200,000 yen
Base grade	e-SKYACTIV G 2.5	4WD	Approximately 3,350,000 yen
Intermediate Grade	e-SKYACTIV G 2.5	4WD	Approximately 3,750,000 yen
Higher grade	e-SKYACTIV G 2.5	4WD	Approximately 4,500,000 yen
Strong Hybrid (2027)	SKYACTIV-Z HV	FF	Approximately 3,800,000 yen
Strong Hybrid (2027)	SKYACTIV-Z HV	4WD	Approximately 4,300,000 yen
Strong HV Top (2027)	SKYACTIV-Z HV	4WD	Approximately 4,800,000 yen

Grade structure features:

• Homura grade : 15.6-inch display, 19-inch wheels, sporty specifications
• Centre-Line grade : 12.9-inch display, 19-inch wheels, leather/fabric seats

Toyota RAV4 Price List (Estimated)

grade	Powertrain	Drive	Price (tax included, estimated)
CORE HEV	HEV	FF	Approximately 4,000,000 yen
CORE HEV	HEV	E-Four	Approximately 4,200,000 yen
ADVENTURE HEV	HEV	E-Four	Approximately 4,500,000 yen
CORE PHEV	PHEV	E-Four	Approximately 5,500,000 yen
ADVENTURE PHEV	PHEV	E-Four	Approximately 6,000,000 yen
GR SPORT PHEV	PHEV	E-Four	Approximately 6,500,000 yen

Five-year total cost comparison (10,000km driven per year)

item	CX-5 e-SKYACTIV G 2.5 4WD	RAV4 HEV E-Four	RAV4 PHEV GR SPORT
Vehicle price	3,750,000 yen	4,200,000 yen	6,500,000 yen
5-year fuel costs	653,850 yen	425,000 yen	130,750 yen
Automobile tax (5 years)	197,500 yen	197,500 yen	197,500 yen
Vehicle inspection and maintenance fees (5 years)	Approximately 200,000 yen	Approximately 200,000 yen	Approximately 200,000 yen
total	Approximately 4,801,350 yen	Approximately 5,022,500 yen	Approximately 7,028,250 yen

Consideration:

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8. Body size and practicality comparison

Handling and parking performance

Mazda CX-5:

• Minimum turning radius: approx. 5.5m
• Overall width: 1,860mm (slightly large, but suitable for Japanese road conditions)
• Overall length: 4,690mm (a striking size)
• Overall height: 1,695mm (meets the 2.0m limit for multi-story parking garages)
• Wheelbase: 2,815mm (longest in its class, contributing to straight-line stability)

Toyota RAV4:

• Minimum turning radius: 5.5-5.7m
• Overall width: 1,855-1,880mm (PHEV is slightly larger)
• Total length: 4,600-4,645mm
• Overall height: 1,680-1,685mm (compatible with multi-story parking garages)
• Wheelbase: 2,690mm

evaluation:

• Handling is at the same level for both cars
• The CX-5’s 2,815mm wheelbase contributes to straight-line stability and interior space.
• The RAV4 PHEV is the widest at 1,880mm.
• There are no problems with using the multi-story parking lot for either car.

Interior space and comfort

Mazda CX-5:

• Largest interior space in its class thanks to a 2,815mm wheelbase
• Distance between front and rear seats increased by 64mm, knee space in rear seats increased by 29mm
• Can comfortably seat four adults over 170cm tall
• Head clearance +45mm
• Luggage: 583L (2,019L with rear seats folded)

Toyota RAV4:

• Spacious rear seats thanks to a 2,690mm wheelbase
• Flat luggage floor
• Luggage: 749L (166L more than the CX-5)
• High degree of freedom in rear seat arrangement

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9. Which one should you choose? Recommendations by purpose

Who is the Mazda CX-5 recommended for?

Who is the Toyota RAV4 recommended for?

Lifestyle matrix

needs	CX-5	RAV4
Cost performance	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐
The size of the interior space	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fuel efficiency and economy	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Power performance	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐(PHEV)
Loading capacity	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Digital Technology	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Advanced safety technology	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
EV driving	–	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐(PHEV)

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10. Summary

comprehensive evaluation

Market position

The mid-size SUV market in 2026 will be at a turning point, with accelerated electrification and increased interior space progressing simultaneously. The CX-5 and RAV4 each take different approaches to address this period of change.

• CX-5 : A spacious interior thanks to a 2,815mm wheelbase , the latest digital experiences using Google Built-in , and full-scale electrification planned for 2027 with a strong hybrid.
• RAV4 : Full-scale electrification with PHEV and next-generation SUV experience with the Arene platform

Final checkpoints when purchasing

lastly

The Mazda CX-5 and Toyota RAV4 are both top models representing the mid-class SUV market in 2026. The CX -5’s 2,815mm wheelbase provides ample interior space, Google built-in , and the addition of a strong hybrid in 2027 are major attractions. Meanwhile, the RAV4’s PHEV technology and “Arene” platform make it a favorite in the era of electrification.

The final choice will depend on your lifestyle and values . Using the comparison information presented in this article as a reference, we encourage you to visit a dealer, check out the actual vehicle, and take a test drive to find the best car for you.

This concludes our thorough comparison of the Mazda CX-5 vs. Toyota RAV4 2026 model. The CX-5 boasts the longest interior space in its class with a 2,815mm wheelbase , while the RAV4 leads the electrification movement with 324hp in its PHEV and a 150km EV range . Both are attractive models that lead the mid-size SUV market. Be sure to check out the actual vehicles and find the one that’s perfect for you!

Related URLs:

• Mazda official website
• Toyota RAV4 official website
• Complete guide to the new Mazda CX-5
• Toyota RAV4 Full Model Change: A Detailed Explanation of Its Evolved Appeal

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