If you’re shopping for a compact crossover SUV, you’ve likely come across options from Mazda and Hyundai. The Hyundai Tucson and Mazda CX-5 are popular options among drivers from Richmond, Midlothian, and central Virginia thanks to their affordable pricing, efficient performance, and comfortable interiors.
Whitten Mazda is comparing the 2026 Mazda CX-5 vs Hyundai Tucson in greater detail to help you find the next compact crossover SUV that’s right for your needs.
The new Mazda CX-5 price starts at $29,990 MSRP. It’s offered in five trim levels.
| Mazda CX-5 Trim Level | Mazda CX-5 Starting Price |
|---|---|
| 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S | $29,990 MSRP |
| 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select | $31,990 MSRP |
| 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Preferred | $34,250 MSRP |
| 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium | $36,900 MSRP |
| 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Plus | $38,990 MSRP |
The Hyundai Tucson starts at $29,450 MSRP. It’s also offered in five trim levels.
| Hyundai Tucson Trim Level | Hyundai Tucson Starting Price |
|---|---|
| Hyundai Tucson SE | $29,450 MSRP |
| Hyundai Tucson SEL | $30,800 MSRP |
| Hyundai Tucson XRT | $33,475 MSRP |
| Hyundai Tucson SEL Premium | $33,800 MSRP |
| Hyundai Tucson Limited | $39,425 MSRP |
Engines: The 2026 Mazda CX-5 has a new engine – a Skyactiv®-G 2.5-liter 4-cylinder that generates 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque.
The Hyundai Tucson has a standard 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine that also delivers 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque.
Drivetrain: The Mazda CX-5, like all Mazda SUVs, is equipped with standard i-Activ AWD® (all-wheel drive), delivering the necessary amount of traction and torque for various road conditions. The Mazda SUV also has the available Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive). With this, you can access the off-road and sport driving modes.
The Tucson has standard front-wheel drive (FWD). AWD is available as an option.
Gas Mileage: When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Mazda CX-5 gets EPA-estimated fuel efficiency of 24 mpg/city and 30 mpg/highway.
With FWD, the Tucson gets an EPA-estimated 25 mpg/city and 33 mpg/highway. With AWD, it gets an EPA-estimated 24 mpg/city and 30 mpg/highway.
Seating: Both SUVs have seating for five across two rows.
Upholstery: The Mazda CX-5 interior has cloth, leatherette-trimmed, or leather-trimmed seats, depending on the trim level. A leather-wrapped gear selector and a leather-wrapped steering wheel are standard.
The Hyundai Tucson has standard cloth seating. Higher trims have H-Tex®-trimmed seats. Only the top trim has leather seats.
Technology: The Mazda SUV comes with the Mazda Connect™ infotainment system. You can access this system via the new 12.9-inch touchscreen or a large 15.6-inch touchscreen if you opt for the highest trim level. Standard features include Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. You also get a 1-year complimentary subscription to Google Built-In. Higher trim levels feature an impressive 12-speaker Bose® sound system.
The Hyundai Tucson has a 12.3-inch touchscreen that allows you to access Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This SUV also has a Bose® sound system, but only with the top trim level.
Specs: The Mazda CX-5 provides 39.7 inches of front headroom and 40.2 inches of rear headroom. This compact crossover SUV is 184.6 inches long and rides on a 110.8-inch wheelbase.
The Hyundai Tucson has 40.1 inches of front headroom and 39.5 inches of rear headroom. It’s 182.7 inches long and rides on a 108.5-inch wheelbase.
The Mazda CX-5 has a slightly higher starting price, but the top trim is more affordable than the Tucson.
The Mazda SUV has standard AWD, while the Hyundai SUV requires an upgrade for AWD. When comparing AWD models, both offer the same fuel efficiency.
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 has a higher-end interior with a larger standard and available touchscreen.
While the Hyundai offers a touch more headroom in the front, it has less headroom in the rear. It’s also shorter with a shorter wheelbase.
Now that we’ve compared the 2026 Mazda CX-5 vs Hyundai Tucson pricing, trim levels, performance, and interior, do you have a better idea of which is the right compact crossover SUV for you?
Have you determined that the 2026 Mazda CX-5 is the right compact crossover SUV for you? Whitten Mazda is a top Mazda dealership in Richmond.
We’re proud to offer a great selection of new Mazda CX-5 SUVs, a stress-free buying experience, and assistance with securing a car loan or lease. You can even get pre-approved!
Contact us to learn more or visit our Richmond car dealership showroom to test drive this Mazda SUV.
