2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S vs 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation
On paper, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S wins on $2,110 less. The 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $2,110 price gap, 187 vs 175 hp, 25 vs 25 MPG.
The CX-5 2.5 S leads on $2,110 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 | 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S | 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $29,990 | $32,100 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 1.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 175 hp |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 23 | 24 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 25 | 25 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.3 gal | 15.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,750/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,856 lbs | 3,598 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 110.8" | 107.5" |
| Length | 184.6" | 181.0" |
| Width | 73.2" | 74.5" |
| Height | 66.7" | 65.8" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S and 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S starts at $29,990, $2,110 less than the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation at $32,100. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $37/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 $2,110 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
The 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation is the stronger pick when the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S or 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
Both achieve 25 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S or 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S produces 187 hp, 12 more than the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation at 175 hp. The 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation also leads in torque at 203 lb-ft vs 186 lb-ft. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S bigger than the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S is 3.6″ longer at 184.6″ vs 181.0″. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S has a 3.3″ 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: Mazda trims, Mazda CX-5 trims, GMC trims, GMC Terrain trims
- 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the CX-5 and Terrain Stack Up
Two compact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S ($29,990) and 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation ($32,100) solve similar problems in different ways. The $2,110 gap is about $37/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: CX-5 vs Terrain
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. The 12 hp difference (187 vs 175) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S when you want to keep $2,110 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S covers your needs. Choose the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation when the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute. At $37/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
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 GMC or any dealership.