2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S vs 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE
$6,110 less and 2 mpg better vs 90 more hp and 125 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $6,110 price gap, 187 vs 277 hp, 25 vs 23 MPG.
The CX-5 2.5 S leads on $6,110 less, 2 MPG better. The Santa Fe SE leads on 90 more hp, 125 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 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 | 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $29,990 | $36,100 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 277 hp |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft | 311 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed automated manual |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 23 | 20 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 25 | 23 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.3 gal | 17.7 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,856 lbs | 4,486 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 110.8" | 110.8" |
| Length | 184.6" | 190.2" |
| Width | 73.2" | 74.8" |
| Height | 66.7" | 67.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 4/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP+ |
| 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 and 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S starts at $29,990, $6,110 less than the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE at $36,100. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $108/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $6,110 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $146/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE is the stronger pick when the extra 90 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S or 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S rates 25 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S or 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE produces 277 hp, 90 more than the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S at 187 hp. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE also leads in torque at 311 lb-ft vs 186 lb-ft. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S bigger than the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE is 5.6″ longer at 190.2″ vs 184.6″.
How do the warranties compare?
The Mazda CX-5 comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Hyundai Santa Fe 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 Santa Fe trims
- 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The CX-5–Santa Fe Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the CX-5 and Santa Fe compare. The $6,110 gap adds up to $108/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 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE has 90 more hp (277 vs 187). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE adds 125 more lb-ft of torque (311 vs 186), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S saves roughly $146/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $730. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Living With the CX-5 vs the Santa Fe
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE weighs 630 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 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S when you want to keep $6,110 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE when the extra 90 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $108/month more, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE 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 Mazda or Hyundai or any dealership.