The Toyota RAV4 continues to lead the sales charts for the compact crossover SUV segment. However, it faces challengers, including the first-ever Mazda CX-50. Find out how the two crossover SUVs compare in this 2023 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2023 Mazda CX-50 analysis. With its advantages, the RAV4 defeats the CX-50 in four crucial areas. 

2023 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2023 Mazda CX-50

In this 2023 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2023 Mazda CX-50 crossover SUV comparison, we analyzed multiple factors. This includes performance, gas mileage, towing, off-road capabilities, passenger and cargo space, warranty coverage, and price.

RAV4 vs. CX-50: Performance

On the performance front, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 tops the 2023 Mazda CX-50 for both base-engine horsepower and maximum horsepower output. Engines offered for the RAV4 include a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (203 horsepower), a hybrid (219 horsepower), and a plug-in hybrid with the RAV4 Prime (308 horsepower). In comparison, the CX-50 offers a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (187 horsepower) and a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (256 horsepower). 

RAV4 vs. CX-50: Gas mileage

The 2023 RAV4 is more efficient than the 2023 CX-50. The fully gas-powered RAV4 has an estimated fuel economy of up to 30 combined mpg, while the RAV4 Hybrid has a gas mileage of up to 40 combined mpg. Also, the RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid has a fuel efficiency of 94 combined MPGe when in electric-only mode and 38 combined mpg in hybrid mode. In comparison, the CX-50 gets an estimated fuel economy of up to 27 combined mpg.

RAV4 vs. CX-50: Towing

For towing, the RAV4 and CX-50 are evenly matched. Both crossover SUVs have a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.

RAV4 vs. CX-50: Off-road capabilities

The RAV4 and CX-50 are solid choices for off-road driving. They both offer a traction-enhancing all-wheel drive system and have ground clearance of up to 8.6 inches. Also, both the RAV4 and CX-50 offer off-road models. This includes the Meridian Edition Off-Road Package for the CX-50 — and the TRD Off-Road, Woodland Edition, and Adventure trims for the RAV4. 

RAV4 vs. CX-50: Passenger and cargo space

Which crossover SUV is bigger: the 2023 RAV4 or the 2023 CX-50? The CX-50 has slightly more passenger space, with a total passenger volume of 100.3 cu-ft, compared to 98.9 cu-ft for the RAV4. However, the RAV4 provides more storage space, with a maximum cargo capacity of 69.8 cu-ft, compared to 56.3 cu-ft for the CX-50.

RAV4 vs. CX-50: Warranty coverage

For warranty coverage, both the RAV4 and CX-50 are backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. However, unlike the CX-50, the RAV4 offers a complimentary maintenance plan, with two years or 25,000 miles of coverage. 

RAV4 vs. CX-50: Price

Which crossover SUV costs more: the 2023 RAV4 or the 2023 CX-50? The starting price of the 2023 RAV4 ranges from $27,575 MSRP for the LE trim up to $45,460 MSRP for the RAV4 Prime XSE trim. In comparison, the starting price of the 2023 CX-50 ranges from $27,550 MSRP for the 2.5 S trim up to $42,300 MSRP for the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus Package trim.

2023 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2023 Mazda CX-50: Which crossover SUV is better?

In this 2023 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2023 Mazda CX-50 crossover SUV comparison, the 2023 RAV4 has advantages in four crucial areas. This includes advantages for performance, gas mileage, cargo space, and a complimentary maintenance plan. Conversely, the 2023 CX-50 has the advantage for passenger space.