Let’s take a closer look at the top-of-the-line models from two leading compact SUVs: the Hyundai Tucson Limited AWD and the Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium Package AWD. Join us as we compare specs, size, engine, trims, and price of Hyundai Tucson vs Mazda CX 5 to find out which one offers the ultimate driving experience.
Table of contents
Engine & Performance
| Feature | Hyundai Tucson Limited AWD | Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium Package AWD |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5 L/152 Regular Unleaded I-4 | 2.5 L/152 Intercooled Turbo Regular Unleaded I-4 |
| Horsepower | 187 @ 6100 RPM | 227 @ 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 178 @ 4000 RPM | 310 @ 2000 RPM |
| Transmission | 8-speed Automatic w/OD | 6-speed Automatic w/OD |
| Fuel Economy (mpg) | 25 (combined) / 23 (city) / 29 (highway) | 24 (combined) / 22 (city) / 27 (highway) |
| Drive Train | All Wheel Drive | All Wheel Drive |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 2000 lbs | 2000 lbs |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 14.3 gallons | 15.3 gallons |
| Price (Starting at) | $39,635 | $39,175 |
- Engine Performance: The Mazda CX-5 boasts a higher horsepower output of 227 HP and torque of 310 lb-ft, compared to the Hyundai Tucson’s 187 HP and 178 lb-ft of torque. This translates to a more powerful and spirited driving experience in the CX-5.
- Transmission: While both vehicles feature automatic transmissions, the Hyundai Tucson offers an 8-speed automatic transmission, whereas the Mazda CX-5 comes with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The Tucson’s additional gears may provide smoother acceleration and better fuel efficiency.
- Fuel Economy: The Hyundai Tucson demonstrates superior fuel efficiency with an EPA combined rating of 25 mpg, compared to the Mazda CX-5’s combined rating of 24 mpg. This gives the Tucson a slight edge in terms of fuel savings over time.
The Hyundai Tucson Limited AWD and the Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium Package AWD stand out as formidable contenders in the compact SUV segment, each offering a unique blend of performance, comfort, and technology.
While the Mazda CX-5 excels in engine power and dynamic driving characteristics, the Hyundai Tucson shines with its fuel efficiency and refined transmission system.
Read – 2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Specs, Price, Interior & Release Date
Size & Dimension Comparison
| Aspect | Hyundai Tucson Limited AWD | Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium Package AWD |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Length | 176.4 inches | 179.1 inches |
| Overall Width | 72.8 inches | 72.5 inches |
| Overall Height | 65.6 inches | 66.2 inches |
| Wheelbase | 105.1 inches | 106.2 inches |
| Ground Clearance | 6.4 inches | 7.5 inches |
| Curb Weight | 3,500 pounds | 3,600 pounds |
When looking at the size and dimensions of the Hyundai Tucson Limited AWD and the Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium Package AWD, there are a few differences to note.
The Hyundai Tucson is about 176.4 inches long, while the Mazda CX-5 is a bit longer at 179.1 inches. They’re pretty similar in width, with the Hyundai Tucson at 72.8 inches and the Mazda CX-5 at 72.5 inches. However, the Mazda CX-5 is a tad taller at 66.2 inches compared to the Hyundai Tucson’s 65.6 inches.
When it comes to the space between the wheels (wheelbase), the Mazda CX-5 has a slightly longer one at 106.2 inches, while the Hyundai Tucson’s is 105.1 inches.
For handling bumps and rough roads, ground clearance is important. The Mazda CX-5 has more ground clearance at 7.5 inches, while the Hyundai Tucson offers 6.4 inches.
Lastly, in terms of weight, the Hyundai Tucson is lighter at 3,500 pounds compared to the Mazda CX-5, which weighs 3,600 pounds.
Read – Mazda CX-5 vs Mazda CX-50 Specs
Interior Dimension
When comparing the interior dimensions of the Hyundai Tucson Limited AWD and the Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium Package AWD, there are notable differences to consider.
Starting with passenger capacity, both vehicles can comfortably accommodate up to five passengers. However, there are variations in the specific dimensions:
- Front Head Room: The Mazda CX-5 offers slightly more front headroom at 39.3 inches compared to the Hyundai Tucson’s 38.1 inches.
- Front Leg Room: The Hyundai Tucson provides more front legroom with 41.4 inches, whereas the Mazda CX-5 offers slightly less at 41 inches.
- Front Shoulder Room: Both vehicles offer comparable front shoulder room, with the Hyundai Tucson at 57.6 inches and the Mazda CX-5 at 57.1 inches.
- Front Hip Room: The Hyundai Tucson has a slightly larger front hip room at 54.5 inches, while the Mazda CX-5 offers 55.2 inches.
- Second Row Head Room: Both vehicles have the same second-row headroom at 39 inches.
- Second Row Leg Room: The Hyundai Tucson provides slightly more legroom in the second row with 41.3 inches compared to the Mazda CX-5’s 39.6 inches.
- Second Row Shoulder Room: The Hyundai Tucson offers more second-row shoulder room at 56 inches, while the Mazda CX-5 provides 54.8 inches.
- Second Row Hip Room: The Mazda CX-5 has a slightly larger second-row hip room at 55.3 inches compared to the Hyundai Tucson’s 53.9 inches.
Overall, while both SUVs offer comfortable seating for five passengers, there are slight differences in specific interior dimensions that may influence passenger comfort and preference.
Read – Hyundai Santa fe vs Mazda CX 5, Price, Specs, Cargo Space & Reliability
Cargo Space Comparison
| Features | Hyundai Tucson Limited AWD | Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium Package AWD |
|---|---|---|
| Cargo Volume Behind Second Row | Approximately 38.7 cubic feet | Approximately 30.9 cubic feet |
| Cargo Volume Behind First Row (with Rear Seats Folded) | Approximately 74.8 cubic feet | Approximately 59.6 cubic feet |
When we look at the cargo space, the Hyundai Tucson Limited AWD has more room behind the second row, offering about 38.7 cubic feet. Folding down the rear seats expands the space to roughly 74.8 cubic feet, giving plenty of room for luggage or large items.
On the other hand, the Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium Package AWD provides slightly less space. It offers around 30.9 cubic feet behind the second row and about 59.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
In simple terms, the Tucson offers more cargo space overall compared to the CX-5. However, both provide decent room for everyday hauling needs.
Towing Capacity Comparison
When it comes to towing capacity, both the Hyundai Tucson Limited AWD and the Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium Package AWD offer similar capabilities.
Both vehicles have a maximum towing capacity of 2000 pounds, whether you’re using a dead weight hitch or a weight-distributing hitch.
In practical terms, this means you can tow small trailers, boats, or lightweight camper trailers with either vehicle.
Overall, if towing capacity is an important factor for you, both the Tucson and the CX-5 offer sufficient capability for your towing needs.
Read – Mazda CX 30 vs CX 5 – Dimensions, Interior, Reliability & Price
Fuel Range
- Hyundai Tucson Limited AWD:
- City: 23 MPG
- Highway: 29 MPG
- Combined: 25 MPG
- Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium Package AWD:
- City: 22 MPG
- Highway: 27 MPG
- Combined: 24 MPG
The Hyundai Tucson Limited AWD gets around 25 miles per gallon on average, with 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. Its fuel tank holds 14.3 gallons, giving it a range of about 329 miles in the city and 415 miles on the highway.
On the other hand, the Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium Package AWD has a combined fuel economy of 24 mpg, with 22 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. With a larger 15.3-gallon fuel tank, it can travel approximately 337 miles in the city and 413 miles on the highway.
In summary, both SUVs offer similar fuel efficiency, but the Mazda CX-5 has a slightly longer range due to its larger fuel tank. Either way, you’ll enjoy fewer trips to the gas station on your travels.
Read – Mazda CX-30 vs Mazda CX-5 Specs Comparison
2024 Mazda CX-5 trim levels & price
- 2.5 S Select Package AWD – $29,300 MSRP
- 2.5 S Preferred Package AWD – $30,650 MSRP
- 2.5 S Carbon Edition AWD – $31,950 MSRP
- 2.5 S Premium Package AWD – $33,900 MSRP
- 2.5 S Premium Plus Package AWD – $36,500 MSRP
- 2.5 Carbon Turbo AWD – $37,000 MSRP
- 2.5 Turbo Premium Package AWD – $37,800 MSRP
Hyundai Tucson trim levels & price
- 2.5 S Select Package AWD – $29,300
- 2.5 S Preferred Package AWD – $30,650
- 2.5 S Carbon Edition AWD – $31,950
- 2.5 S Premium Package AWD – $33,900
- 2.5 S Premium Plus Package AWD – $36,500
- 2.5 Carbon Turbo AWD – $37,000
- 2.5 Turbo Premium Package AWD – $37,800
Entertainment Feautres
| Entertainment Features Comparison | Hyundai Tucson | Mazda CX-5 |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | Touchscreen | Touchscreen |
| Display Size | Standard | Larger |
| Apple CarPlay and Android Auto | Supported | Supported |
| Number of Speakers | Standard | Potentially higher |
| Navigation System | Optional/Standard | Optional/Standard |
| Wireless Charging | Available in some trims | Available in some trims |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Available | Available |
| USB Ports | Available | Potentially more |
Safety Features
| Safety Features Comparison | Mazda CX-5 | Hyundai Tucson |
|---|---|---|
| Electronic Stability Control (ESC) | Available | Available |
| ABS And Driveline Traction Control | Available | Available |
| Side Impact Beams | Available | Available |
| Dual Stage Driver And Passenger Seat-Mounted Side Airbags | Available | Available |
| Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) Blind Spot | Available | Available |
| Advanced Smart City Brake Support and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) | Available | Available |
| Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS) Lane Keeping Assist | Available | Available |
| Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS) Lane Departure Warning | Available | Available |
| Collision Mitigation-Front | Available | Available |
| Low Tire Pressure Warning | Available | Available |
| Dual Stage Driver And Passenger Front Airbags | Available | Available |
| Curtain 1st And 2nd Row Airbags | Available | Available |
| Airbag Occupancy Sensor | Available | Available |
| Rear Child Safety Locks | Available | Available |
| Outboard Front Lap And Shoulder Safety Belts | Available | Available |
| Back-Up Camera | Available | Available |
Both the Mazda CX-5 and the Hyundai Tucson come with a range of safety features to keep you safe while driving. These include systems like Electronic Stability Control (ESC) for better handling, ABS and Traction Control to prevent skidding, and Side Impact Beams for extra protection during side collisions.
Both SUVs also have Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Keep Assist, and airbags throughout the cabin. They even have Rear Child Safety Locks to keep young passengers secure.
These features show that both Mazda and Hyundai are serious about your safety on the road.
Conclusion
In wrapping up, both the Hyundai Tucson and the Mazda CX-5 have their own strengths in the compact SUV category.
The Tucson catches the eye with its sleek design, roomy interior, and advanced safety tech. Meanwhile, the CX-5 shines with its refined driving feel, luxurious cabin, and fuel-efficient engines.
In my own experience, I find that the CX-5’s interior exudes a cooler and more premium vibe compared to the Tucson. Personally, I would lean towards the CX-5.
However, the ultimate choice depends on your preferences and priorities. Both vehicles offer compelling options in the compact SUV market, so it’s essential to weigh your needs against what each model has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Both can tow up to 2000 lbs, so they’re equally good for towing trailers or small boats.
The Hyundai Tucson Limited AWD boasts slightly better fuel efficiency for city driving with an EPA rating of 23 mpg compared to the Mazda CX-5’s 22 mpg. So, if fuel economy is your primary concern for city commuting, the Tucson might be the better choice.
Yes, both the Hyundai Tucson and the Mazda CX-5 come equipped with a range of safety features such as Electronic Stability Control, ABS, Traction Control, Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Keep Assist, and multiple airbags. These features ensure comprehensive protection for passengers in various driving conditions. So, you can trust either SUV to prioritize safety on the road.
Both have similar features, but CX-5 might offer better sound and a larger screen.
Both offer comfortable seating for five passengers, but Tucson has slightly more legroom and hip room in the front, while CX-5 provides a bit more headroom.
Both Hyundai and Mazda have good reputations for reliability, so you can generally expect solid performance from both the Tucson and the CX-5.
