2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium vs 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select
49 more hp vs $5,510 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 236 vs 187 hp.
The RAV4 XLE Premium leads on 49 more hp. The CX-5 2.5 S Select leads on $5,510 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 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium | 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $37,500 | $31,990 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 hybrid | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 236 hp | 187 hp |
| Torque | No published data | 186 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | No published data | 23 |
| Highway MPG | No published data | 29 |
| Combined MPG | No published data | 25 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.5 gal | 15.3 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,770 lbs | 3,856 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.9" | 110.8" |
| Length | 181.0" | 184.6" |
| Width | 73.0" | 73.2" |
| Height | 66.7" | 66.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 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 RAV4 XLE Premium and 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select starts at $31,990, $5,510 less than the 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium at $37,500. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $97/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium?
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium is the stronger pick when the extra 49 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Who should choose the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select is the stronger pick when you want to keep $5,510 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select covers your needs.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium or 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select?
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium produces 236 hp, 49 more than the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select at 187 hp. The 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium runs a 2.5L I4 hybrid; the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select uses a 2.5L I4.
Is the 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium bigger than the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select is 3.6″ longer at 184.6″ vs 181.0″. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select has a 4.9″ 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 RAV4 trims, Mazda trims, Mazda CX-5 trims
How the RAV4 and CX-5 Stack Up
Two compact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium ($37,500) and 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select ($31,990) solve similar problems in different ways. The $-5,510 gap adds up to $97/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: RAV4 vs CX-5
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium runs a 2.5L I4 hybrid; the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select uses a 2.5L I4. The 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium has 49 more hp (236 vs 187), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Both use AWD.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium when the extra 49 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select when you want to keep $5,510 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select 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.