2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium vs 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
Tucson SEL starts at $33,550, $1,650 less. Tucson SEL leads with 28 MPG. Same 187 hp.
| Spec | 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium | 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $35,200 +$1,650 | $33,550 Save $1,650 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 187 hp |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-Spd AT | 8-Spd AT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 25 |
| Hwy MPG | 30 2 less | 32 +2 |
| Combined MPG | 27 1 less | 28 +1 |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 30.8 cu ft | 38.7 cu ft |
| Screen | 10.25" | 10.25" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | Yes | No |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,770 lbs | 3,585 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.2" | 108.3" |
| Length | 179.1" | 182.3" |
| Wheels | 19" Alloy | 17" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | i-Activsense | SmartSense |
CX-5 2.5 S Premium or Tucson SEL?
Both are competitive. Tucson SEL has a lower entry price, Tucson SEL leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium and 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL?
Which gets better gas mileage, the CX-5 2.5 S Premium or Tucson SEL?
Should I buy a 2026 Mazda CX-5 or Hyundai Tucson?
Which is more reliable, the Mazda CX-5 or Hyundai Tucson?
Is the Mazda CX-5 bigger than the Hyundai Tucson?
What is the cost of insurance for the CX-5 2.5 S Premium vs Tucson SEL?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium?
Who Should Choose the CX-5 2.5 S Premium
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium appeals to buyers who prioritize what Mazda does best: practicality and resale value. At $35,200, it positions itself as the more feature-rich option.
Mazda ownership comes with a distinct ownership proposition. Compare more: CX-5 2.5 S vs CX-5 2.5 S Select, CX-5 2.5 S vs CX-5 2.5 S Premium, CX-5 2.5 S vs CX-5 2.5 Turbo.
Who Should Choose the Tucson SEL
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL is the better fit for buyers who want a lower entry price. Superior fuel economy at 28 combined MPG is a genuine running-cost advantage.
Hyundai's approach to this suv emphasizes value, warranty protection, and technology. If that aligns with your priorities, the Tucson SEL deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $1,650 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The CX-5 2.5 S Premium is positioned higher, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.
Feature differences like a moonroof, larger wheels also contribute. Both are competitive within the suv market, and neither represents a poor value at their respective price points.
What Kind of Buyer Notices the Difference
Enthusiast drivers will feel the differences immediately if there's a powertrain gap. The horsepower difference here is modest enough that most commuters won't notice it. Interior differences become apparent on longer trips where seat comfort, noise levels, and tech features matter more.
For buyers who primarily drive in urban and suburban settings under 40 mph, both of these suvs will feel remarkably similar in daily use. The differences surface on road trips, in extreme weather (where heated seats and AWD matter), and during technology-heavy interactions like navigation and phone integration.
When Both Suvs Feel the Same
In a parking lot, at a stoplight, or cruising in light traffic, these two vehicles deliver very similar experiences. Both are modern, safe suvs with contemporary safety suites, decent infotainment, and comfortable cabins. Neither will leave you feeling shortchanged in everyday scenarios.
The choice between Mazda and Hyundai often comes down to brand loyalty, dealer experience, and which vehicle simply feels right during a test drive. We recommend driving both back-to-back on the same day — the subtle differences in steering feel, seat position, and visibility are more informative than any spec sheet.