New Crossovers Compared: Mazda CX-5 Vs. Hyundai Tucson

Start Your Search for Your Family's Next Crossover SUV

If you're one of the many motorists shopping for a powerful and versatile crossover SUV, you'll want to consider our Mazda CX-5 vs. Hyundai Tucson comparison. After all, these two small models offer what most drivers and families seek: technology, comfort, and power. But which sport-ute comes out on top?

That's a question to be answered with a detailed review of these two SUVs. Afterward, we hope that you'll stop by Gunther Motor Company for a test drive of the Mazda CX-5, the model we deem the winner.

Explore 2026 Mazda CX-5 vs. Hyundai Tucson Features

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 and 2026 Hyundai Tucson share plenty of similarities. However, stepping into the new Mazda CX-5 presents a uniquely premium experience.

Every edition of the 2026 CX-5 comes with an upscale interior design and soft materials, giving it an air of luxury that the 2026 Tucson has a hard time replicating. For example, while leather upholstery is limited to the top-most Hyundai Tucson trim - the Limited - the Mazda model has two trims with leather seating in its lineup. Plus, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear selector are standard in the Mazda CX-5; these are offered only in higher trims of the Tucson.

Both models offer available heated front and rear seats, ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. However, the driver's seat in the Mazda CX-5 has up to 10-way power adjustability, whereas the Hyundai Tucson's has up to eight-way power adjustability. Not to mention, the Mazda comes standard with dual-zone climate control. The Hyundai can't say the same.

The range-topping Hyundai Tucson SEL Premium and Limited are the only trims to contain a Bose premium sound system. Similarly, the two highest trim levels of the Mazda CX-5 offer this enhanced audio experience. One Hyundai trim allows drivers to relax into ventilated front seats. By contrast, you can find this cooling feature in two of the Mazda tiers, complete with a three-level function. This pattern continues with several other popular features.

However, we shall spotlight one notable difference between the cabins of the 2026 Hyundai Tucson and the 2026 Mazda CX-5: the infotainment system. In our selection of new Mazda vehicles, you'll find a large, 12.9- or 15.6-inch infotainment display in the latest Mazda CX-5, while the Hyundai Tucson has a 12.3-inch touchscreen display across the board. To boot, the Mazda SUV boasts a 10.25-inch meter display in every trim, while the Tucson has a standard 4.2-inch cluster; it upgrades to a 12.3-inch system in higher variants.

Dive Into Mazda CX-5 vs. Hyundai Tucson Specs

A major similarity in our Mazda CX-5 vs. Hyundai Tucson comparison is that both SUVs come standard with a 187-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. However, the Mazda has more torque. Additionally, they deliver power to the pavement differently. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 remains strong throughout the lineup with standard AWD. Meanwhile, the Hyundai SUV relies on standard FWD, casting AWD as an upgraded feature that will cost you extra.

Usually, the benefit of FWD is that it helps vehicles be more fuel-efficient. While FWD does give the Hyundai Tucson a slight edge, you might be surprised to note that the Mazda model keeps up in city driving even with the heftier AWD system. At the same time, you'll have the reassurance of extra traction when you're dealing with rain- or ice-slick roads.

When you add AWD to the Hyundai Tucson, its fuel efficiency drops to 24/30 MPG,⁴ the same as the Mazda CX-5. Though it's important to note that the Mazda has a larger fuel tank than the Hyundai.

Compare Mazda CX-5 and Hyundai Tucson Safety

In addition to being carefully constructed, the Mazda CX-5 offers an array of advanced driver-assist and safety technologies, including the following standard features:

• Driver Attention Alert
• Blind-Spot Monitoring
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
• Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop and Go and Speed Limit Assist
• Smart Braking Support
• Lane-Keep Assist
• Smart Braking Support
• Emergency Lane Keeping with Blind Spot Assist, Road Keep Assist, and Head-On Traffic Avoidance Assist

The Hyundai Tucson offers several similar standard safety features, including Driver Attention Warning, Blind Spot Collision Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go, and Lane Keeping Assist. However, amenities like Head-On Traffic Avoidance Assist and Road Keep Assist aren't available. Therefore, it will be up to you to decide which maker's driver-support systems are up to your standards.

It should also be noted that both the 2026 Hyundai Tucson and 2026 Mazda CX-5 have received five stars in crashworthiness by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).⁵

Start Driving Today With the Help of Gunther Motor Company

Whether you prefer the Mazda CX-5 or Hyundai Tucson is a question only you can answer. However, if you - like us - find yourself fond of the Mazda model, we can help you take the next step toward bringing it home with our competitive and transparent financing opportunities. Our car experts can also help you compare this SUV to other popular options, such as in our Mazda CX-5 vs. Ford Edge guide.

FAQ About Mazda CX-5 vs. Hyundai Tucson SUVs

What is the difference between the Mazda CX-5 and the Hyundai Tucson?

There are many differences between the Mazda CX-5 and the Hyundai Tucson. One example is that the 2026 Tucson features standard FWD, with AWD available as an upgrade. Every 2026 CX-5 has standard AWD. The Mazda also offers a more premium feel, with additional luxurious amenities and a larger touchscreen. Our specialists can help you choose among its trims.

Which is better: the Mazda CX-5 or the Hyundai Tucson?

The Mazda CX-5 for sale is often seen to be better than the Hyundai Tucson. For example, it boasts standard AWD in every trim, competitive fuel efficiency, and a higher degree of luxury, even though both models are similarly priced. If you have specific questions about the Mazda CX-5 versus Hyundai Tucson, please bring them to our knowledgeable sales team.

Which vehicle has more power: the Hyundai Tucson or Mazda CX-5?

The Mazda CX-5 has more power output than the Hyundai Tucson. While both vehicles feature a standard engine with 187 horsepower, the Mazda offers higher torque: 186 pound-feet vs. 178 pound-feet. Though the Hyundai has a higher maximum towing capacity, the Mazda comes standard with AWD. You have to pay extra to acquire AWD in the Tucson.

Does the Mazda CX-5 have better reliability than the Hyundai Tucson?

The Mazda CX-5 has similar reliability to the Hyundai Tucson. Both compact SUVs are dependable and built to go the distance. Whether they reach 200,000 miles or even beyond will come down to circumstances on the road and how well they are maintained. Luckily, at Gunther Motor Company, we have auto professionals who can care for vehicles of all makes.