2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium vs 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL
2 mpg better vs $4,835 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 187 vs 187 hp, 28 vs 26 MPG.
The CX-5 2.5 S Premium leads on 2 MPG better. The Tucson SEL leads on $4,835 less. The spec table compares 4 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 4 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 | 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium | 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,900 | $32,065 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 187 hp |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 24 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 30 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 26 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.3 gal | 14.3 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,700/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,856 lbs | 3,640 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 110.8" | 108.5" |
| Length | 184.6" | 182.7" |
| Width | 73.2" | 73.4" |
| Height | 66.7" | 66.3" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 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 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium and 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL?
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL starts at $32,065, $4,835 less than the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium at $36,900. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $85/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
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 lower running costs matter to you, roughly $115/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL?
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL is the stronger pick when you want to keep $4,835 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium or 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium rates 28 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium or 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL?
Both produce 187 hp. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft.
Is the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium bigger than the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium is 1.9″ longer at 184.6″ vs 182.7″. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium has a 2.3″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Mazda CX-5 comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Hyundai Tucson 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 Tucson trims
How the CX-5 and Tucson Stack Up
Two compact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium ($36,900) and 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL ($32,065) solve similar problems in different ways. The $-4,835 gap adds up to $85/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: CX-5 vs Tucson
Both run the same 2.5L I4 engine. Both produce 187 hp. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium saves roughly $115/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $575.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $115/year less on fuel. Choose the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL when you want to keep $4,835 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL 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.