Mazda CX-5 vs. Honda CR-V vs. Toyota RAV4 Comparison

Americans love SUVs. The compact SUV segment has been one of the fastest-growing segments over the last several years, surpassing sedans thanks to their added versatility. In such a fast-growing market, there’s plenty of stout competition. When exploring your options, you’ll often notice three of the same names consistently rising to the top. The Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and the Mazda CX-5. Each compact SUV is a titan in their own respect, and each is its brand’s best-selling car. Each model probably has more similarities than differences. They are all compact SUVs with four-cylinder engines that start around $30,000. While their similarities may outweigh their differences, they compete for position in the details, with each offering a distinct flavor in the SUV format. Which SUV is better? That will depend on the buyer. We’ll try to help you come to your own conclusions, pointing out highlights and shortcomings between each model. We’ll focus on comparing what each model has going on under the hood, what their cabin is like, and what the price difference is. 

We’ll do our best to present the facts accurately and provide helpful commentary while acknowledging our own bias. We’re a Mazda dealership, and the CX-5 is our bread and butter. Naturally, we think our horse is the best in the race, but the truth is, each of these SUVs is a best-seller for a reason. If you’re not sure which model is the best fit for you, we’d recommend taking each for a test drive to get a first-hand experience. You’re welcome to visit our Mazda dealership at your convenience to explore the CX-5. 

Mazda CX-5 vs CR-V vs RAV4 Powertrains

Let’s start with powertrains. For this breakdown, we will focus solely on gas powertrains. We’ve compiled relevant data for each model in the chart below: 

As expected, the base engines for each model are pretty similar. There are some differences worth highlighting. You’ll notice the CX-5 is the only option listed with two powertrain options. That’s a little unfair to Honda and Toyota, as both the RAV4 and CR-V have hybrid powertrains, while the CX-5 does not. That said, the turbocharged CX-5 is more potent than any of the hybrid offerings from both brands. Also worth noting is that the CX-5 is the only model to come standard with AWD, a premium feature not standard on the CR-V or RAV4. Notably, this decreases the CX-5’s fuel economy. 

Although it’s difficult to discern from the numbers, there is a noticeable difference when driving each model. Critics have lauded the CX-5 as one of the most fun-to-drive SUVs in its price range. While critics note the CR-V and RAV4 are more practical, they don’t have the same edge as the CX-5. We’d recommend testing them yourself to see how they measure up. To learn more about Mazda CX-5 specs and fuel efficiency, visit our Mazda dealership in Oklahoma City.

Honda CR-V vs CX-5 vs RAV4 Cabins

Moving on to interiors, let’s see how much cargo space you can expect to find in each SUV:

Both the CR-V and RAV4 outperform the CX-5 in terms of cargo space, as the CX-5 prioritizes a more agile cabin that focuses on an engaging driving experience. In contrast, the CR-V and RAV4 emphasize practicality, as evident in their large cargo holds. If you prioritize maximizing your space, the CR-V is the way to go, as it’s the best in class. It comes at the cost of being fairly bulky for the compact segment, but there’s no denying the functionality. 

When it comes to cabin aesthetics, personal taste will vary from driver to driver. Critics note that the RAV4 focuses on practicality and spaciousness over added features and high-end materials, while the CR-V offers a comfortable but somewhat bland cabin. That makes sense when comparing brands, as Toyota and Honda aim to make a car that anyone can drive, appealing to the widest possible audience. The CX-5 is noted for providing more style both inside and outside the cabin, with a near-luxury interior that utilizes higher-quality materials while maximizing the use of its smaller cabin space. Again, your mileage may vary, but each cabin prioritizes something different. 

Toyota RAV4 vs CR-V vs CX-5 Pricing and Value

It’s challenging to compare pricing among three different SUVs, as each comes with varying packages and features that the others may not offer. To give you an idea of what to expect from each model, we’ve compared the top, middle, and bottom trim levels from each SUV:

The Mazda is the most affordable and most expensive, which makes sense, as it has two engines to choose from. Both Toyota and Honda’s top models are cheaper because they offer less horsepower. Across the board, the RAV4 and CX-5 are more closely priced, while the Honda tends to be slightly more expensive for comparable trim levels. This makes sense when you consider that the Honda is a larger SUV. The differences between price points and features are negligible, as each model offers options for much of the same technology and packages. For more details about what to expect from the trim levels of each model, please contact the corresponding dealership. 

Winners and Final Analysis

All three SUVs are award winners, so there’s not a loser in the class. While we like the CX-5 for its better cabin and more engaging driving experience, our next selection would be the Honda CR-V. It offers that extra space in a very well-made car. We find the Toyota RAV4 caught in the middle. It attempts to appeal to everyone, but in doing so, it doesn’t do anything that truly stands out. Again, we’re biased towards the Mazda, but to determine which SUV makes the most sense for you, we would recommend taking each for a test drive. If you’d like to explore the CX-5, visit Bob Moore Mazda dealership in Oklahoma City!