2021 Mazda CX-5 or Toyota RAV4?

The small SUV market is crowded with options. As this segment has grown almost every manufacturer has jumped on board offering their version of a small-sized SUV. Two stalwarts in the class are the 2021 Mazda CX-5 and the 2021 Toyota RAV4. Both vehicles come from well-regarded brands and offer a litany of options and configurations. But which one of these Japanese SUVs comes out on top? And which one is worth the ticket price?

Capabilities

When shopping for an SUV you want something that is powerful and capable. The engine should be strong and mated to a transmission that applies that power appropriately whether you’re trying to scale a rough terrain or pass someone on the highway.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 comes in a variety of configurations and offers a standard 2.5 liter 4 cylinder engine capable of cranking out 203hp. The engine is attached to an 8-speed automatic transmission that offers a variety of quick-shifting capabilities. Paired together this engine is strong enough for off-road fun and quick enough to get up to speed on the highway. For stronger off-road performance the TRD Off-Road model includes a torque-vectoring all-wheel drive to keep the little RAV stable in a variety of conditions.

In contrast, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 comes with a nearly identical standard powertrain setup, 2.5 liters 4 cylinders, but comes a little short in the overall horsepower generated, coming in at 187 hp. However, because of the wide selection of trim levels, the CX-5 can be outfitted with their SKYACTIV®-G 2.5 Dynamic Pressure Turbo 16-valve 4-cylinder that will kick out 227hp. Enough power to get you places fairly quickly.

So Toyota has an edge over the Mazda when it comes to standard engines, but the CX-5 can be outfitted with a high-end engine that offers plenty of power and the turbo option.

Taking a Peek Inside

While the RAV4 and CX-5 have similar powertrains, the interior is really where these two little mountain goats take different paths. The RAV4 seems to be more focused on the utilitarian side of four-wheeling, while the CX-5 has a focus on luxury.

Both base models have cloth seats, and nice trim throughout the cabins. The seating is comfortable and supportive in both models and you can squeeze in four to five passengers in both. The RAV4 comes with a 7-inch infotainment system in its base model that is starting to age a bit as it has been offered for several RAV4 generations. The CX-5 comes with a new 2021 infotainment system that has a 10.25-inch screen available. The screen is more integrated into the interior and comes with Mazda Connect that gives the owner more connectivity and remote offerings.

Both interiors are comfortable and give drivers easy reach to a variety of controls. The CX-5 interior just comes across with more sophistication and a modern build than the RAV4. So it’s a matter of taste as far as what you are looking for in the interior of a mini SUV.

Exterior Style

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 has a sleek and modern look. The nose slopes into a rounded grill and is highlighted by a splash of silver which can only be described as a smile shape. The Mazda wing symbol adorns the front and gives it an overall pleasing look. The doors come with panels that are swept in and give it a curvy and sophisticated sporting stance. The liftgate is rounded at the top and then ends in a square-jawed look that gives the rear end a nice finished look. Overall the lines are clean and appealing.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 again has a different take when it comes to exterior lines. The RAV 4 is more angular and chiseled throughout the design. Looking like a boxer waiting in his corner ready to fight. Rather than sweeping front lines, the RAV 4 went with squared angles, a large grill, and an under swept front end that looks like it’s ready to gobble up the competition. The doors sweep in much like the CX-5, but are more understated, keeping to the rugged appeal. Again the rear of the RAV4 comes across as more squared and angular, with even the back window squared off.

In the end, the choice between the RAV4 and the CX-5 comes down to taste. Any Mazda CX-5 review will state something about the luxury feel of this little SUV, while the RAV 4 will talk about rugged looks. Both SUVs are extremely capable, but the Mazda will look good at the cabin or downtown for a drink.