2026 Toyota Highlander XLE vs 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium
78 more hp and 124 more lb-ft torque vs $8,670 less and 4 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 265 vs 187 hp, 24 vs 28 MPG.
The Highlander XLE leads on 78 more hp, 124 more lb-ft torque. The CX-5 2.5 S Premium leads on $8,670 less, 4 MPG better. 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 Toyota Highlander XLE | 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $45,570 | $36,900 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.4L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 265 hp | 187 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | 186 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 21 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 28 | 30 |
| Combined MPG | 24 | 28 |
| Fuel Tank | 17.9 gal | 15.3 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,800/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,376 lbs | 3,856 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 112.2" | 110.8" |
| Length | 194.9" | 184.6" |
| Width | 76.0" | 73.2" |
| Height | 68.1" | 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 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE and 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium starts at $36,900, $8,670 less than the 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE at $45,570. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $152/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE?
The 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE is the stronger pick when the extra 78 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
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 want to keep $8,670 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $250/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE or 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium rates 28 combined MPG, 4 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE or 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium?
The 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE produces 265 hp, 78 more than the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium at 187 hp. The 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE also leads in torque at 310 lb-ft vs 186 lb-ft. The 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE runs a 2.4L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium uses a 2.5L I4.
Is the 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE bigger than the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium?
The 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE is 10.3″ longer at 194.9″ vs 184.6″. The 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE has a 1.4″ 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 Highlander trims, Mazda trims, Mazda CX-5 trims
Highlander vs CX-5: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE and 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium sit in the midsize SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $-8,670 gap adds up to $152/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE runs a 2.4L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium uses a 2.5L I4. The 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE has 78 more hp (265 vs 187). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE adds 124 more lb-ft of torque (310 vs 186), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Highlander vs CX-5
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium saves roughly $250/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,250.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE is 10.3″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE weighs 520 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE when the extra 78 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium when you want to keep $8,670 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium 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 Toyota or Mazda or any dealership.