2022 Toyota RAV4 vs Mazda CX-5

For those in the market for a stylish and practical SUV, look no further than the RAV4 and CX-5. Both vehicles have come leaps and bounds ahead of previous models with modern technology like advanced safety systems integrated into their design for 2022 editions. Offering up twelve trims complete with hybrid model options plus eight versions of its counterpart - customers certainly won’t be hurting when it comes to choice! If certain buyers are still feeling overwhelmed by all these fantastic possibilities this overview should provide some direction on which might suit them best.

The Powertrain

Customers of the Toyota RAV4 have an exciting selection - opt for a regular engine or get turbocharged with the hybrid! But that's not all, there is also a plug-in hybrid version called the Prime. Mazda offers their own SUV upgrade too, featuring both standard and piping hot turbo engines to choose from. Making your decision just got harder – but rest assured they are all reliable options sure to satisfy drivers' needs!

The RAV4 offers up plenty of power under the hood with its 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine providing an impressive 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque—more than enough to make even everyday driving a pleasure! Every model comes standard equipped with eight speeds through their electronically controlled automatic transmission which can be shifted into sequential mode for that extra bit of control over your ride.

If a hybrid RAV4 is selected, there would be an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission. Sequential shift mode would be included, too. The hybrid system also uses a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine, but it has the addition of a pair of electric motors. Net horsepower is 219, so the hybrid is actually more capable than its non-hybrid counterpart.

With the hybrid RAV4, you can drive 41 miles in town and 38 on the highway all while saving your wallet and helping to protect our environment. Regular models of this SUV still get respectable mileage, but nothing quite compares with a hybrid - 27 city MPG or 35 highway don't stand a chance!

The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offers all-wheel drive as a standard feature, while other trims have it available as an option. Taking your off-road exploration to the next level, two signature models are equipped with dynamic torque vectoring AWD and TRD suspension for enhanced rugged terrain handling - perfect for those seeking thrills on the trails!

Toyota has given its RAV4s a few driving modes. On a standard model, there are Sport, Eco, and Normal drive modes. All-wheel-drive versions have a Multi-Terrain Select program that has modes for mud and sand, rock and dirt, and snow. A hybrid model would have Sport, Eco, Normal, EV, and Trail modes. The Adventure and TRD Off-Road have an additional program called Downhill Assist Control, which limits their speed on slopes.

Mazda's CX-5 offers two different driving experiences. The standard engine provides a fuel-efficient ride with 24 mpg in the city and 30 on the highway - perfect for your everyday errands or long road trips alike. For those seeking some extra pep, its beefier turbocharged option boasts an impressive 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque while still providing 22mpg/city & 27mph/highway - giving any driver that extra boost to hit the open roads.

The Mazda CX-5 is equipped with a powerful 2.5L motor, propelling the vehicle to speeds of up to 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. Good news - all trims now come standard with all-wheel drive! For those wanting an extra bit more oomph on their offroad adventures there's also Off Road mode available across higher trim levels; plus six speed automatic transmission for responsive handling and precise gear changes every time you get behind the wheel.

The CX-5, even if it has the non-turbo engine, can tow more than most RAV4s can. The Mazda has a maximum towing capacity of 2,000 pounds. A regular RAV4 is rated to tow up to 1,500 pounds, with the hybrids being able to tow up to 1,750 pounds. The TRD Off-Road and Adventure trims are more powerful, capable of towing up to 3,500 pounds.

Drivability

For unparalleled confidence and control, you can't go wrong with an SUV equipped for all-weather conditions. And if conquering high terrain is something that calls your name, the Toyota RAV4 TRD Off Road or Mazda CX-5 Adventure will be sure to help get you where you need to go! Even when not taking on extreme weather adventures these vehicles still provide plenty of fun - especially when coming with a turbocharged engine option such as in the CX-5.

When it comes to driving, size does matter. Whether you choose the RAV4 or CX-5, both vehicles have a compact size with an overall length of 180 inches - perfect for maneuvering through tight parking lots and navigating city streets! Though similar in stature, the RAV4 stands one inch higher than its counterpart due to increased ground clearance giving drivers that extra bit of confidence behind the wheel.

When considering an SUV, interior space is a major factor. Can five people fit comfortably and still have enough room for cargo? Fortunately, both the RAV4 and CX-5 provide generous amounts of passenger and storage capacity - perfect for families on the go!

The RAV4 offers plenty of space to stretch out in the second row, with over three feet of legroom. For all your storage needs, you get a generous 37.6 cubic feet and can easily expand that number up to 70 when folding down the rear seats - perfect for camping trips or shopping sprees!

Passenger space in the CX-5 is comparable. There is a bit more second-row leg room (39.6 inches) in this vehicle. When the back seats are in their upright position, cargo volume is 30.8 cubic feet. After the seatbacks have been lowered, cargo capacity expands to 59.3 cubic feet. This is a good amount of space, even if it's not quite as much as what the RAV4 offers.

Today's drivers demand convenience, and the RAV4 and CX-5 deliver in spades…

The RAV4 and CX-5 provide drivers with plenty of entertainment options — Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth are all standard. But the tech offerings don't end there! You can also find integrated navigation as well as Amazon Alexa capabilities on select RAV4 models while enjoying a luxurious listening experience with JBL sound systems boasting 11 speakers or Bose audio sets including 10 powerful ones in more sophisticated versions of the CX-5. And to round it off you'll get SiriusXM integration beginning in mid-lineup for one car and Pandora's internet radio across both - giving you access to an extensive variety of music wherever your journey takes you.

Keeping devices charged can be a concern on long road trips. Fortunately, automotive manufacturers have been thinking about easy solutions to this issues. All CX-5s have two USB ports in the front row, with almost all trims having an additional pair of USB ports that rear-seat passengers can access. The top two CX-5 trims have wireless charging.

Wireless charging can also be found on many trims of the Toyota RAV4. It's not a standard component, however. At least three USB ports are included with every RAV4 SUV, which means that people won't have to compete over charging access. The three standard ports are located in the front storage tray and front center console. There could be two extra ports in the back of the center console within easy reach of someone riding in the back.

Safety

The latest Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5 models are pioneering the way for drivers to be safer on roads. With cutting edge assistance systems embedded in their designs, these vehicles have gone beyond traditional safety measures by actively sensing potential collisions - so they can intervene before an accident occurs or minimize harm if danger strikes.

Toyota's RAV4 comes equipped with Safety Sense 2.0, the ultimate package of cutting-edge safety features. Drivers get peace of mind knowing they have pre-collision braking and a corresponding alert system to help prevent disaster. Lane departure warning with steering assistance puts them back on track if distraction leads off course – while Road Sign Assist keeps drivers up to date on posted speed limits or upcoming curves in the road ahead! For extra visibility in low light conditions, automatic high beams provide just enough illumination without dazzling other motorists - plus Adaptive Cruise Control helps maintain an ideal distance from traffic that may be slowing down unexpectedly further down the line.

Get the peace of mind you deserve with Toyota trims! Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert to keep an eye on your surroundings are standard from the get go, while higher end models come stocked with front/rear parking assist that stops minor collisions before they even start. For those wanting total visibility, some trim levels boast 360 degree cameras for a full view of what lies ahead.

The CX-5 shines with its standard blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, making it a perfect choice for drivers seeking a safer ride. Upgrade to the top trim of this vehicle however, and you'll be treated to advanced features like road sign assist, rear parking sensors in both front and back as well as 360° camera capabilities plus reverse automatic braking - all designed to keep you safe on your journey.

Which Has the Best Value?

Weighing up your options? Look no further than the Mazda lineup where you can find all of life's automotive needs on one menu. Start off with a modest $26,250 and go as high-tech turbo fancy as you'd like; from Premium Plus to Turbo Signature in just three steps - at an unbeatable range between 34,300-$39,000.

The RAV4 is a versatile SUV that accommodates all types of budgets. With the base-level LE, you can get behind the wheel for around $27K or kick it up a notch with AWD at just slightly more cost. Looking to break into hybrid technology? The Hybrid LE offers plenty of features and fuel efficiency starting from under $30K while those who really want top-of-the line performance should check out Limited and its even higher powered counterpart, the Hybrid Limited – both priced around mid-$35s.

When shopping for a new vehicle, you may expect to pay about the same amount of money for either a CX-5 or RAV4. While these vehicles offer comparable components, there is one deciding factor that some buyers should consider – leather seats! The luxurious Nappa leather included in the CX-5 will give your car an extra touch of sophistication not available from its counterpart with SofTex upholstery instead.

Which is Better?

The RAV4 and the CX-5, both top SUVs in their class, are neck-and-neck for a buyer's number one pick. With no significant price difference to factor in, it really all comes down to personal preferences; do you veer towards the modern style of the sleek CX-5 or favor something that is more reliable and utilitarian like the rugged RAV4? This choice will make all commuters feel ready on any journey.

If you’re the adventurous type and need a car for your wildest endeavors, then look no further than Toyota's RAV4. The Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims provide an extra layer of toughness perfect for any terrain. Plus with more maximum cargo space that its sibling CX-5, it won't let you down when packing all your outdoor gear gets rough! And if taking care of Mother Nature is also important to you - rejoice! There's even a hybrid version available so go forth on those long drives guilt free.

The Mazda CX-5 effortlessly combines power and elegance, making it the perfect vehicle for both performance enthusiasts and style seekers alike. Thanks to its turbocharged engine, this SUV will take you anywhere in a flash while also providing luxurious comfort inside the cabin that belies its price tag - truly an amazing value.