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Starting MSRP
Trims
Engine Options
Drivetrain
Maximum Cargo Volume
Maximum Towing Capacity
Compact crossover SUVs are all the rage among American car buyers nowadays, and the 2025 Mazda CX-50 and 2025 Toyota RAV4 are two popular models. But which is better? The Mazda CX-50 or RAV4? That is the question this 2025 Mazda CX-50 vs. Toyota RAV4 comparison review from Mazda of Canton will answer today. So, if you were thinking about purchasing either of those models, let us help. Check out this overview, and consider your options with us.
Straightaway, the 2025 RAV4 is the more affordable option for the cost-conscious North Canton driver. The entry-level RAV4 LE FWD starts at $28,850, while the entry-level Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Select commands a higher $30,300 starting MSRP. However, if you peel back the curtain, you will note that all Mazda CX-50 trims come standard with i-ACTIV AWD®, while the base RAV4 can be optionally outfitted with AWD. To do so, however, costs extra, and the price of the RAV4 LE AWD is nearly identical to that of the entry-level Mazda CX-50.
Speaking of trims, the 2025 MAZDA CX-50 offers seven unique trims. On the other hand, the 2025 Toyota RAV4 limits choice to four trims, which expands to eight once you include the optional AWD. However, slapping AWD capacity onto a pre-existing trim doesn’t exactly make it unique, so in terms of overall variety and value at or near entry level, we think the 2025 Mazda CX-50 comes out on top.
Mazda offers two engine options for the 2025 Mazda CX-50, while Toyota only offers one for the RAV4. So what’s the story when Mazda CX-50 vs. Toyota RAV4 specs are directly compared? Check out the basic engine specs below, and think about how these two compact crossover SUVs would perform on the streets of Akron:
SKYACTIV®-G 2.5 DOHC 16-Valve 4-Cylinder With Cylinder Deactivation
Standard on: 2.5 S Select, 2.5 S Preferred, 2.5 Premium, 2.5 S Premium Plus
SKYACTIV®-G 2.5 Dynamic Pressure Turbo and i-Stop
Standard on: 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition, 2.5 Turbo Premium, 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus
2.5L 4-cylinder Dynamic Force Engine
Standard on: All 2025 Toyota RAV4 (gas) models
Mazda CX-50 or RAV4? Though the upper-level Mazda CX-50 trims with the more powerful SKYACTIV®-G 2.5 engine are more expensive than the top-of-the-line RAV4 Limited AWD, the former can also tow up to 3,500 pounds when fully and correctly equipped. The RAV4, on the other hand, tops out at a towing capacity of 1,500 pounds. This difference in towing capacity more than makes up for the fact that the Mazda CX-50 has less cargo space than the Toyota RAV4, as you can surely store and move more through Alliance with an extra 2,000 pounds of capacity than a mere 13.5 cubic feet of extra storage space! So in the Mazda CX-50 vs. Toyota RAV4 specs comparison, it seems that Mazda has come out on top once again.
So! Mazda CX-50 or RAV4? We think it’s relatively clear that in this compact crossover SUV showdown, the 2025 Mazda CX-50 beats the competition. If you think you need more convincing, check out some additional online resources or visit us in Canton to test-drive a Mazda CX-50. We can also show you our new vehicle specials and generous financing options, so we hope to see you soon.
