Toyota’s RAV4 is a bestseller for the automaker, and there’s a very good reason for that. The compact SUV is rugged and sensible, delivering exactly what it promises in terms of driving experience and cargo space, and all of that at a reasonable price. However, Toyota is facing more and more competition each day for the RAV4, and it's not unwise to begin to wonder if you could be getting the absolute best bang for your buck elsewhere. Enter Mazda CX-50.
The Toyota RAV4 has delivered on the promise of a family-sized SUV that doesn’t break the bank since as far back as 1994. Throughout the years, the SUV has faced its fair share of bad models, but the fourth generation has really delivered. Mazda, however, is a fairly new player in the SUV game, only really becoming a competitor in the last decade with the likes of the CX-5. Fast forward to today and models like the CX-50 also provides direct competition to the RAV4, and we would say that it does so fairly effectively. So, is Toyota’s dominance may be in danger?
The RAV4 Has Some Tricks But It's Just Not Enough To Keep Up
Let us start with what’s under the hood of the RAV4. Toyota’s 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is tried and tested, delivering a fair 203 horsepower. It runs with a fairly responsive eight-speed transmission that delivers power at a reasonable rate. The RAV4 can also be purchased with a hybrid powertrain but since Mazda doesn’t offer that option as of yet, the comparison remains between the purely combustion-driven models.
The standard for the RAV4 is front-wheel-drive but getting a trim with the optional all-wheel-drive is definitely recommended. This is, in part, because of Toyota’s system on some of the higher trims which allows the vehicle to achieve higher fuel efficiency by switching to a front-wheel-drive, disconnecting the rear axle on demand. The RAV4 uses its power well and can achieve some quick 0-60 times, with Car and Driver reporting reaching the 60mph mark in eight seconds flat during their tests. The Toyota also has a reasonable towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.
Mazda has equipped its CX-50 with a well-proven engine, similar to the RAV4 a 2.5-liter four-cylinder. However, at the base, this engine produces only 187 horsepower, but there is the option for a turbocharged variant that shoots out a much improved 256 horsepower. The turbocharged option is definitely what we recommend.
All-wheel-drive comes standard on the CX-50, along with a six-speed automatic gearbox which isn’t quite as responsive as the RAV4. The real appeal in the CX-50’s performance, however, is that signature Mazda handling; the compact SUV hugs corners and is so incredibly responsive. The turbocharged model is also impressively quick, tearing through a 0-60mph test in 6.6 seconds, according to Car and Driver. All this power delivers a similar towing capacity to the Toyota at 3,500 pounds.
Both cars have their pros and cons, with the turbocharged variant of the CX-50 being quicker and more powerful than the RAV4 and the RAV4 delivering better fuel ratings with Toyota’s innovative drivetrain. All things considered, despite this, both compact SUVs come fairly close in their fuel ratings, with the RAV4 taking the cake with a 35mpg highway rating and the Mazda only managing 30mpg. Mazda wins points for its superior handling and ride quality.
The Sturdy Persona Of The RAV4 Or The Premium Feel of the CX-50?
The personality of the RAV4 has always been one of a working-class car, getting the job done in a sensible way. This carries through in the design and the feel of the interior. The priority in Toyota’s compact SUV is functionality, with everything designed to just work the way you’d expect it to. The infotainment system works but isn’t anything special in class, coming standard with CarPlay and Android Auto, however.
Most models come with a small digital gauge cluster, with the option for a larger more complete one in more premium models. Being a two-row doesn’t hinder the cargo space as the rear seats fold back nicely, going almost flat and extending the already decent cargo space in the back. All this comes at a cost though. The build quality in the RAV4 feels below average. In the base models, even the steering wheel feels a bit flimsy.
Mazda’s approach is, unsurprisingly, completely different. The CX-50 provides the driver and passengers with a much more upscale experience that's also more fun. The design and build of the interior feel like night and day compared to the RAV4. Mazda has also innovated by putting the controls for their infotainment on the panel next to the driver, in a spot that is natural and safe.
Once again, CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. All models of the CX-50 also come with a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and a partially-digital gauge display along with a classy push-to-start button. Despite this, the CX-50 doesn’t lose out on functionality, with the two-seater having adequate space for rear passengers as well as cargo.
In Terms Of Value For Money, The CX-50 Wins Out
The Toyota RAV4 is a brilliant choice of SUV considering the price, with the base model starting at around $29,000 and the most expensive at around $39,000. Going with the RAV4 you will get a car that’s efficient, can carry your family, provides you with cargo space, and does so in a reasonable, no-nonsense package. However, to compete with the features of the CX-50 you’re paying about the same and missing out on a ton.
The CX-50 also has a starting MSRP of $29,000, however, as we recommend the turbo, you’re looking at something closer to $38,500, with the more premium trims coming in at just over $40,000. The design, power, driving experience, and added features make the CX-50 the better car at this price point. You’re not losing out on functionality, and you’re getting a car that just simply feels better. While the RAV4 puts up a good fight, Mazda has absolutely taken the cake here.