Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Vs. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid: MPG, Specs, Features

Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Vs. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid: MPG, Specs, Features

We’ve compiled an early look at the Mazda CX-50 Hybrid vs. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid to help drivers determine which model will better suit their preferences based on key factors like MPG ratings, driving dynamics, cabin comfort, cargo space, technology, and interior design and amenities.

The Mazda CX-50 Hybrid will undoubtedly be compared and cross-shopped with the RAV4 Hybrid, as this new Mazda hybrid SUV shares the same powertrain as its Toyota competition. While these two hybrid SUVs feature similar dimensions and performance specs, there’s still plenty that separates them, enabling SUV shoppers to find their preferred hybrid model based on the significant differences inside and out.

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs. Mazda CX-50 Hybrid at a Glance

RAV4 Hybrid Highlights:

• EPA-estimated 39 MPG Combined
• Standard cloth seats with available SofTex leatherette seating
• 98.9 cubic feet of passenger volume with 37.8 inches of rear legroom
• More standard and maximum cargo space than CX-50 Hybrid (with all seats upright or bench seating folded)

See our full comparison of the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs. Mazda CX-50 Hybrid below before booking a test drive or two.

RAV4 Hybrid vs. CX-50 Hybrid MPG Ratings

One of the most critical factors for those shopping for a hybrid SUV is fuel economy, since you’ll be paying a premium for a more efficient gas-electric hybrid than had you selected a gas-only model, like the standard CX-50 or RAV4. While both the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and the new CX-50 Hybrid rely on the same 219-horsepower 2.5-liter powertrain built on the Toyota Hybrid System, the RAV4 Hybrid edges out the Mazda model for top fuel economy honors in this comparison.

The RAV4 Hybrid earns up to an EPA-estimated 39 MPG Combined rating, while the CX-50 Hybrid is narrowly behind at an EPA-estimated 38 MPG Combined. The slight difference in gas mileage between these two SUVs comes down to weight and tuning in the Mazda model compared to the RAV4 Hybrid.

Driving Dynamics: Toyota & Mazda SUVs With Toyota Hybrid System

The Mazda CX-50 Hybrid and Toyota RAV4 Hybrid are extensions of the models they’re based on: the CX-50 and RAV4, both powered by a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated gas engine. And their driving dynamics closely follow those of their respective base platforms.

The CX-50 line prioritizes spry handling, sharp throttle response, and driver engagement, while the RAV4 line is designed to cater to a wider customer base, emphasizing efficiency and predictability.

The RAV4 line of two-row SUVs might be better as a hybrid, as it gains both power and efficiency compared to the standard model, and there’s even a plug-in hybrid option called the RAV4 Prime. The CX-50 lineup also offers three engine options, but instead of gas, hybrid, and PHEV powertrains, it boasts a gas 2.5-liter and a 2.5-liter turbo engine plus the new hybrid option.

Test-drive a CX-50 Hybrid and RAV4 Hybrid back to back and expect the Mazda model to have the sharper, sportier throttle response and more engaging handling but with a stiffer ride, especially when mounted with the available larger 19-inch wheels.

These two hybrid SUV models share the same basic Toyota Hybrid System setup, so they both feature a 2.5-liter gas-electric powertrain, electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (eCVT), and Electric AWD (eAWD). While their eCVT and throttle response may be tuned differently, both SUVs offer a Trail mode and Sport mode.

The Mazda CX-50 Hybrid’s available Power mode delivers a thrilling drive, while other modes prioritize maximum fuel efficiency. Regarding the CX-50 Hybrid towing capacity compared to the RAV4 Hybrid, the Toyota model offers slightly more trailering capability with its 1,750-pound max tow rating. The new CX-50 Hybrid can pull up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped.

Dimensions

Mazda says the first-ever CX-50 Hybrid features slightly revised exterior proportions compared to the CX-50 gas model, as it needs to accommodate the larger battery pack that powers this hybrid SUV’s electric motor. It also gets a restyled front bumper (similar to how the two-row Mazda CX-70 features a unique front bumper design to help further separate it from the three-row CX-90 it’s based on). Expect a bit less ground clearance than the gas-powered CX-50 models’ up to 8.6 inches but still more than eight inches of trail-clearing capability in the hybrid model.

Still, the CX-50 Hybrid SUV’s exterior dimensions are essentially the same as the standard model, just like the Toyota RAV4 vs. RAV4 Hybrid dimensions. The RAV4 Hybrid also loses a few inches of ground clearance, at 8.1 inches compared to up to 8.6 inches in gas-only trims like the RAV4 Adventure or TRD Off-Road.

	Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Preferred	Toyota RAV4 Hybrid LE
Length	185.8 in	180.9 in
Wheelbase	110.8 in	105.9 in
Width	75.6 in	73 in
Height	63.5 in	67 in
Wheel Diameter	17 in	17 in

RAV4 Hybrid vs. CX-50 Hybrid: Trim Levels & Pricing

If you’re looking for a wider range of trim levels in your new two-row hybrid SUV, you’ll find it in the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, offering up to seven trims, including:

• RAV4 Hybrid LE
• RAV4 Hybrid XLE
• RAV4 Hybrid XLE Premium
• RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition
• RAV4 Hybrid SE
• RAV4 Hybrid XSE
• RAV4 Hybrid Limited

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid trim levels include just three editions:

• CX-50 Hybrid Preferred
• CX-50 Hybrid Premium
• CX-50 Hybrid Premium Plus

Still, one could argue the CX-50 Hybrid is the more premium and generously equipped lineup, as it skips the entry-level Select trim configuration of the CX-50 gas model. The RAV4 Hybrid gets the lower-grade LE and XLE trims like its non-hybrid counterpart. Unlike with the RAV4 Hybrid, many Mazda CX-50 Hybrid shoppers may find no need to upgrade from the base edition.

The well-appointed CX-50 Hybrid Preferred entry-level edition comes standard with:

• Leatherette seating surfaces
• Heated front seats
• 10.25-inch infotainment display
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Eight-speaker audio system
• Four fast-charging USB-C ports
• Wireless phone charging
• Power rear liftgate
• Distinctive 17-inch Hybrid wheels painted black

The new Toyota RAV4 Hybrid isn’t as well-equipped in its standard configuration. The RAV4 Hybrid LE base model gets:

• Cloth seats
• 8-inch touch screen
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Six-speaker sound system
• Three USB ports

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Preferred price starts at $33,970, just over a $2K premium over the gas model CX-50 Preferred trim. The top-trim CX-50 Hybrid Premium Plus is priced at $40,050, which is highly competitive with the range-topping Toyota RAV4 Hybrid trim, the 2025 RAV4 Hybrid Limited, at $40,030.

Passenger Space & Comfort

Compact two-row SUVs often prioritize cargo space over second-row passenger comfort, but the new Mazda CX-50 Hybrid interior finds a balance by providing generous rear-seat legroom and cargo capacity. The Mazda model’s longer wheelbase and length from front to rear bumper enables a more spacious cabin for up to five occupants, including more total passenger volume than the RAV4 Hybrid.

Backseat passengers in the CX-50 Hybrid will appreciate its additional two inches of second-row legroom, at 39.8 inches compared to just 37.8 inches in the Toyota model. This Mazda hybrid SUV can’t hold as much cargo as its Toyota competitor. Still, it’s the more well-rounded choice for SUV shoppers seeking a fuel-efficient hybrid model that’s equally comfortable, accommodating, and versatile for up to five passengers plus plenty of cargo.

Cargo Space

Placement of the hybrid battery in the new CX-50 Hybrid SUV has been optimized and fitted into the rear section of the floor, thereby maximizing space in the rear cargo hold for your gear, including larger items like bicycles and other outdoor adventure gear. Still, the CX-50 Hybrid and its gas-only counterpart, the CX-50, trail the Toyota RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid twins in cargo capacity.

Whether you place all five seats upright or lower the second-row bench seating, the Toyota model accommodates more cargo, holding over 69 cubic feet, whereas the Mazda hybrid SUV has about 56 cubic feet of cargo volume with rear seating lowered.

	Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Preferred	Toyota RAV4 Hybrid LE
Passenger Volume	100.3 cu ft	98.9 cu ft
Legroom (1st / 2nd Row)	41.7 / 39.8 in	41 / 37.8 in
Cargo Space Behind 2nd Row	56.3 cu ft	69.8 cu ft
Cargo Space Behind 1st Row	31.4 cu ft	37.5 cu ft

Mazda vs. Toyota Technologies Inside: Infotainment & Safety Systems

Mazda and Toyota take vastly different approaches with their in-car infotainment systems. Where Toyota uses a basic touch-screen interface similar to most other automakers, Mazda’s infotainment setup is operated by a center-console-mounted control knob surrounded by buttons.

The MazdaConnect system was designed with driver focus, ergonomics, and safety in mind. Instead of reaching forward and leaning toward the center of the dashboard to tap and swipe at a touch screen, the Mazda infotainment system is designed to keep you in a neutral driving position.

There’s a small learning curve with this type of setup, but once familiar, many drivers prefer it over a more conventional touch-screen layout. Even Apple CarPlay and Android Auto can be operated by scrolling through apps and their functions through the MazdaConnect commander control knob. Both these hybrid SUVs come standard with wireless Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay, but only the CX-50 Hybrid gets convenient Amazon Alexa Built-in integration.

Infotainment functionality aside, the CX-50 Hybrid boasts a bigger center screen as standard. Its 10.25-inch display dwarfs that of the 8-inch screen in the RAV4 Hybrid. A larger 10.5-inch touch screen is offered on the new RAV4 Hybrid but not in more affordable options like the Hybrid LE base trim.

Regarding safety features, the tech-packed CX-50 Hybrid gets the following Mazda i-Activsense driver assistance systems as standard:

• Blind Spot Monitoring
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert
• Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go
• Lane Departure Warning System with Lane-keep Assist
• Rear Seat Alert
• Vehicle Exit Warning
• Rear View Monitor
• Driver Attention Alert
• Emergency Lane Keeping with Road Keep Assist

The RAV4 Hybrid LE gets the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 package with:

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
• Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
• Lane Tracing Assist
• Automatic High Beams
• Road Sign Assist

Interior Design & Amenities

Mazda’s move toward a manufacturer of premium automobiles continues with the gas-electric hybrid variant of the CX-50. The new Mazda CX-50 Hybrid is nearly identically equipped inside to the gas-only CX-50, including a sophisticated cabin design housing standard leatherette seating surfaces, heated front seats, and more passenger volume than the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.

With its standard 10.25-inch digital infotainment display mounted high on the dashboard, a clean and clear digital gauge cluster in front of the steering wheel, supportive seating in two rows, and its attention to noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH), the CX-50 Hybrid model deserves to be called a premium hybrid SUV. A newly available red leather interior joins the Mazda CX-50 line through its inclusion in the new CX-50 Hybrid model.

Select from leatherette or genuine leather inside the Mazda CX-50 Hybrid interior. The new Toyota RAV4 Hybrid can only be had with fabric-trimmed cloth seating or available leatherette seat trim in pricier trim levels.

If you’re seeking a fuel-efficient, adventurous, and premium-appointed alternative to pricier luxury SUVs, the new CX-50 Hybrid is the more appropriate choice here. While the RAV4 Hybrid tops the CX-50 Hybrid in maximum MPG ratings and cargo space, the Mazda model comes out on top in several more areas, including refinement, standard features, driving dynamics, and passenger space.

More Mazda Hybrid SUV Comparisons & Coverage to Come

The Mazda CX-50 Hybrid is an exciting, albeit not entirely all-new model. This highly efficient hybrid option is a welcomed addition to the Mazda SUV lineup, which is being joined by the forthcoming and first-ever Mazda CX-5 Hybrid.

We’ve compared what to expect from the Mazda CX-50 Hybrid vs. CX-5 Hybrid, but we’ll have more to come on these models and more, including how they stack up against similarly efficient hybrid SUV offerings from other carmakers. If you haven’t already, join our newsletter below to get our Mazda news, reviews, opinions, and updates sent via email.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is bigger, the Mazda CX-50 Hybrid or Toyota RAV4 Hybrid?

The Mazda CX-50 Hybrid is bigger than the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid in most dimensions, including length, width, and wheelbase. Inside, the roomy and refined Mazda CX-50 Hybrid premium SUV is also more spacious, with 100.3 cubic feet of passenger volume and 39.8 inches of second-row legroom, which compare favorably to the smaller RAV4 Hybrid’s 98.9 cubic feet of passenger space and 37.8 inches of second-row legroom.

What is the Mazda equivalent or version of the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid?

The Mazda equivalent of the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is the first-ever 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid. The new CX-50 Hybrid is motivated by an advanced gas-electric powertrain based on the Toyota hybrid system that also powers the RAV4 Hybrid. The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and Mazda CX-50 Hybrid feature a 2.5-liter gas engine, three electric motors, a hybrid EV battery, an eCVT, and eAWD. The models are similarly sized, and both generate 219 horsepower.

Which is better, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid or Mazda CX-50 Hybrid?

Better is in the eye of the beholder. Still, if you’re looking for a hybrid SUV with a premium interior, more passenger space, and sharper, more engaging driving dynamics, the new Mazda CX-50 Hybrid is the better option. The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid narrowly tops the CX-50 Hybrid in maximum Combined MPG but is also smaller and less fun to drive than the Mazda hybrid SUV model.