2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S vs 2026 Hyundai Venue SE
On paper, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S wins on 66 more hp, 73 more lb-ft torque, 21.0″ longer. The 2026 Hyundai Venue SE has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 187 vs 121 hp, 25 vs 31 MPG.
The CX-5 2.5 S leads on 66 more hp, 73 more lb-ft torque. The Venue SE leads on $8,500 less, 6 MPG better. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S | 2026 Hyundai Venue SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $29,050 | $20,550 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 1.6L I4 |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 121 hp |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft | 113 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 23 | 29 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 33 |
| Combined MPG | 25 | 31 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.3 gal | 11.9 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,400/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,679 lbs | 2,738 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.2" | 99.2" |
| Length | 180.1" | 159.1" |
| Width | 72.6" | 69.7" |
| Height | 66.1" | 61.6" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 4/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 5yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S and 2026 Hyundai Venue SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Venue SE starts at $20,550, $8,500 less than the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S at $29,050. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $150/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S is the stronger pick when the extra 66 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Venue SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Venue SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $8,500 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Venue SE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $325/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S or 2026 Hyundai Venue SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Venue SE rates 31 combined MPG, 6 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S or 2026 Hyundai Venue SE?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S produces 187 hp, 66 more than the 2026 Hyundai Venue SE at 121 hp. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 113 lb-ft. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Hyundai Venue SE uses a 1.6L I4. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S, FWD on the 2026 Hyundai Venue SE.
Is the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S bigger than the 2026 Hyundai Venue SE?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S is 21.0″ longer at 180.1″ vs 159.1″. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S has a 7.0″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S and 2026 Hyundai Venue SE have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S comes with AWD, while the 2026 Hyundai Venue SE uses FWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
The Mazda CX-5 comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Hyundai Venue offers 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Mazda trims, Mazda CX-5 trims, Hyundai trims, Hyundai Venue trims
- 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Hyundai Venue SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The CX-5–Venue Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the CX-5 and Venue compare. The $-8,500 gap adds up to $150/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Hyundai Venue SE uses a 1.6L I4. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S has 66 more hp (187 vs 121). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S adds 73 more lb-ft of torque (186 vs 113), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S comes with AWD; the 2026 Hyundai Venue SE uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Hyundai Venue SE saves roughly $325/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,625.
Living With the CX-5 vs the Venue
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S is 21.0″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S has a 7.0″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S weighs 941 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S when the extra 66 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 Hyundai Venue SE when you want to keep $8,500 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Venue SE covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Mazda or Hyundai or any dealership.