2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE vs 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium
On paper, the 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE wins on $4,190 less. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $4,190 price gap, 203 vs 187 hp, 29 vs 28 MPG.
The RAV4 XLE leads on $4,190 less. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 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 Toyota RAV4 XLE | 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $32,710 | $36,900 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 203 hp | 187 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 186 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 27 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 33 | 30 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 28 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.5 gal | 15.3 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,515 lbs | 3,856 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.9" | 110.8" |
| Length | 180.9" | 184.6" |
| Width | 73.0" | 73.2" |
| Height | 67.0" | 66.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 2yr/25k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE and 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium?
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE starts at $32,710, $4,190 less than the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium at $36,900. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $74/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE?
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $4,190 in your pocket and the 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $52/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium is the stronger pick when you prefer the Mazda approach to the compact SUV segment.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE or 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium?
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE rates 29 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE or 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium?
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE produces 203 hp, 16 more than the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium at 187 hp. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 184 lb-ft.
Is the 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE bigger than the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium is 3.7″ longer at 184.6″ vs 180.9″. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium has a 4.9″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Toyota trims, Toyota RAV4 trims, Mazda trims, Mazda CX-5 trims
How the RAV4 and CX-5 Stack Up
Two compact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE ($32,710) and 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium ($36,900) solve similar problems in different ways. The $4,190 gap adds up to $74/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: RAV4 vs CX-5
Both run the same 2.5L I4 engine. The 16 hp difference (203 vs 187) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE saves roughly $52/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $260.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium weighs 341 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE when you want to keep $4,190 in your pocket and the 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium when you prefer the Mazda approach to the compact SUV segment. At $74/month more, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
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 Toyota or Mazda or any dealership.