Used Mazda CX-5 vs. Toyota RAV4
When considering five-seat crossovers for sale at Southwest Motors, you should explore the Mazda CX-5 and the Toyota RAV4. Both small SUVs are the right size and price for young parents and downsizing empty-nesters in Pueblo. Here’s a look at the major differences between the CX-5 and RAV4 to help you decide which suits you better.
Stronger performance: Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 and Toyota RAV4 have comparable standard inline-four engine engines with the same displacement and same wheel size. However, even though the Mazda CX-5 has a lower-horsepower engine — 203 hp vs. 187 hp — it is rated to tow about 500 more pounds than the RAV4 can. And, it will handle 50 pounds more in maximum tongue weight. That’s because the CX-5 reaches its peak hp at a lower RPM and yields higher torque output.
As if that wasn’t enough, the CX-5 outdoes the RAV4 even more with its available turbocharged four-cylinder that leaps to 320 lb-ft of torque. You won’t find a comparable turbo engine on any used Toyota RAV4.
Higher fuel economy: Toyota RAV4
The tradeoff for the CX-5’s stronger performance is that it tends to have lower fuel economy. The 2020 Mazda CX-5 averages 25 mpg city and 31 mpg highway versus the 2020 RAV4 getting 2 mpg higher in cities and 4 mpg higher on highways.[1]
The RAV4 has more gears in its transmission — 8-speed versus 6-speed — so it keeps RPMs low and fuel efficiency high. Both SUVs have 15-gallon fuel tanks, so you can expect to travel further on a full tank in the RAV4 due to its superior fuel economy.
The RAV4 goes even further by offering an optional hybrid version and a plug-in hybrid RAV4 Prime model. These electric-enhanced vehicles take you further on a single gallon of gas than any Mazda CX-5 could.
Heightened on-road drivability: Mazda CX-5
Both SUVs come standard with front-wheel drive and offer available all-wheel drive as an alternative on all trim levels — which is a must-have here in Pueblo, Colorado.
Experts in the automotive industry tend to praise the CX-5 for having a nimbler, balanced AWD system; precise body control; and responsive steering. That’s no surprise given Mazda’s reputation as a driver-oriented brand.
Where the RAV4 does have a driving advantage is on unpaved dirt with its TRD variant. This SUV uses the brand’s motorsports heritage to deliver upgrades like a rally-inspired suspension, a wider rear track width, greater ground clearance, and hearty steel wheels (opposed to the CX-5’s aluminum performance wheels).
More cargo space: Toyota RAV4
Which SUV is bigger? That depends on the particular aspect you’re assessing. On the outside, the CX-5 and RAV4 are very similar with the same wheelbase length and similar profiles.
The RAV4 is longer and taller overall, but that extra space is granted to cargo, as the RAV4 has more room behind the rear seats than the CX-5 does. There’s approximately 7 cubic feet of greater space behind the second row of the RAV4 and 10 cubic feet more when the rear seats are folded flat.
Most seating dimensions are comparable between the competing SUVs, though the CX-5 boasts more rear-passenger space thanks to wider seats, which provide more hip room and a tad more legroom.
The bottom line: What does your family need?
A used Mazda CX-5 is a great option for parents who want a lively drive and more room for teenagers and adults in the second-row seats, as this SUV prioritizes performance and passenger space. A used Toyota RAV4 is suited to shoppers with small or no children and carry lots of cargo; it will save you money with better fuel efficiency. Test-drive both SUVs at Southwest Motors and see which one you prefer!
[1] 2020 EPA estimates only. Your mileage may vary.