Mazda CX-5 vs Toyota Rav4: Which Should You Buy in UAE?

A complete comparison of the ⁦Mazda CX-5⁩ VS ⁦Toyota Rav4⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across UAE.

⁦Mazda CX-5⁩ VS ⁦Toyota Rav4⁩: the verdict

The Toyota Rav4 emerges as the overall winner for most shoppers in the UAE, largely due to its superior fuel efficiency with hybrid options, greater cargo capacity, and more accessible starting price. However, the Mazda CX-5 remains a strong contender for those who prioritize a consistently engaging driving experience and a slightly more premium feel from its standard petrol engine.
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Price Comparison
Starting at99,900 – 145,000 AED89,900 – 139,900 AED
Engine & Power
Engine2,500 cc · 4 cyl2,494 cc · 4 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)188 hp176 – 203 hp
Torque (Nm)251 Nm233 – 243 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)7.5 – 7.6 s7.5 – 9.5 s
Top Speed (Km/h)210 km/h200 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)6.8 – 7 L/100km4.1 – 9 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity58 L55 – 60 L
Gears66 – 8
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic / CVT
Drive TypeAll Wheel Drive / Front Wheel DriveAll Wheel Drive / Front Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolHybrid / Petrol
Measurements
L×W×H4.6 m × 1.8 m × 1.7 / 1.7 m4.6 / 4.6 / 4.6 m × 1.8 / 1.9 / 1.9 m × 1.7 / 1.7 / 1.7 m
Wheelbase (meters)2.7 m2.7 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,455 – 1,555 kg1,540 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)506 – 965 L1,085 L
Overview
Body StyleSUV CrossoverSUV Crossover
Seating Capacity5 seats5 seats
Doors5 doors5 doors
Features
Key features
12V SocketABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive BonnetActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive HeadlightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAirbagsAluminum WheelsAnti theft alarmAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBluetoothBody Colored Bumper - Front and RearBody Colored MirrorsBonnet LightBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCollision DetectionCool boxCornering LightsCRASH AUTO DOOR UNLOCKCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDigital ClockDoor Handles - Body ColoredDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Door MirrorsElectric Opening and Closing of Luggage DoorElectric SunroofElectronic HandbrakeFabric SeatsFire ExtinguisherFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear SeatsFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront BrakesFront WindshieldGas Shock AbsorberHalogen HeadlampsHDMIHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistImmobilizerIntelligent KeyiPod InterfaceISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLeather Gear Shift LeverLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsLumbar SupportMap Reading LampsMP3Multi-Information DisplayNumber of SpeakersOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff-Road DampersOverhead Console Sunglass HolderParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower OutletsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPush Button StartRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC VentsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Lcd screensRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRoof SpoilerRun-Flat TyresScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - ManualSeat MemorySeatbelt pretensionerSilver TrimSpare WheelSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpoilerSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTonneau CoverTouchpadTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Defect IndicatorTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUrethane Steering WheelUSB PortVanity MirrorVoice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWinchWind BlockerWireless Headphones
12V SocketABS (Anti-lock Brake System)AirbagsAnti theft alarmAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAUXBA (Brake Assist)BluetoothBody Colored MirrorsCargo Area LightCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Exhaust PipesCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Electric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofFabric SeatsFog Lamp - Front and RearFog Lamps - Front OnlyFoldable Rear SeatsFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront Seat ArmrestHalogen HeadlampsHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistImmobilizerISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLeather Gear Shift LeverLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLumbar SupportManual ACMap Reading LampsMulti-Information DisplayNavigation SystemNumber of SpeakersOdometerParking SensorsPower OutletsPower SteeringPower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRadioRear AC VentsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRoof RailsRoof SpoilerSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat Adjustment - ManualSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTouchscreenTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUrethane Steering WheelUSB PortVanity MirrorVehicle Stability Control (VSC)Welcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWheels - Steel

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Fuel Efficiency

The Toyota Rav4 is the undisputed champion for fuel economy, especially its hybrid variants, achieving an impressive 4.1 L/100km. The Mazda CX-5, while efficient for a petrol SUV, cannot match this.

2

Best for Cargo Space

For families or those needing ample storage, the Toyota Rav4 takes the lead with a significantly larger trunk capacity of 1,085 liters, easily surpassing the Mazda CX-5's 965 liters.

3

Best for Value

Starting at 89,900 AED, the Toyota Rav4 offers a more budget-friendly entry point into the compact SUV segment compared to the Mazda CX-5's starting price of 99,900 AED.

4

Best for Consistent Performance

The Mazda CX-5 offers a consistent 188 hp and 251 Nm of torque across its petrol trims, delivering predictable and spirited acceleration of 0-100 km/h in 7.5 seconds. While the Rav4 Hybrid can match this power, its petrol-only variants are less potent.

Pros & cons

Mazda CX-5

Pros

  • Consistent 188 hp petrol engine performance
  • Higher maximum torque (251 Nm)
  • Slightly higher top speed (210 km/h)
  • Quicker base model acceleration (7.5 s)

Cons

  • Higher starting price (99,900 AED)
  • Less fuel-efficient than Rav4 Hybrid
  • Smaller maximum trunk capacity
  • No hybrid powertrain option

Toyota Rav4

Pros

  • More affordable starting price (89,900 AED)
  • Exceptional fuel economy with hybrid option (4.1 L/100km)
  • Significantly larger trunk capacity (1,085 L)
  • Higher maximum power available (203 hp with hybrid)
  • More transmission options and gears (up to 8)

Cons

  • Slower acceleration in petrol-only base models (9.5 s)
  • Lower top speed (200 km/h)
  • Lower torque in petrol-only variants (233 Nm)
  • Less consistent power delivery across non-hybrid trims

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is more fuel-efficient, Mazda CX-5 or Toyota Rav4?

The Toyota Rav4 is significantly more fuel-efficient, especially its hybrid variants, which can achieve as low as 4.1 L/100km. The Mazda CX-5, while respectable, offers 6.8 L/100km. For long-term savings on fuel, the Rav4 Hybrid is the clear winner.

Which SUV has more cargo space, the Mazda CX-5 or Toyota Rav4?

The Toyota Rav4 offers substantially more cargo space, with a maximum trunk capacity of 1,085 liters. The Mazda CX-5 provides a respectable 965 liters. If cargo volume is a top priority for your family or lifestyle, the Rav4 is the better choice.

Is the Mazda CX-5 or Toyota Rav4 better for performance?

While both offer strong performance, the Mazda CX-5 provides a consistent 188 hp across its range, with a quick 0-100 km/h in 7.5 seconds. The Toyota Rav4's petrol models can be slower, but its hybrid variants boast up to 203 hp, also achieving 0-100 km/h in 7.5 seconds. For consistent, spirited petrol performance, the CX-5 might feel more direct, while the Rav4 Hybrid offers a powerful, efficient option.

Which is cheaper, the Mazda CX-5 or Toyota Rav4 in the UAE?

The Toyota Rav4 has a more accessible starting price in the UAE at 89,900 AED, compared to the Mazda CX-5 which starts at 99,900 AED. Both models offer trims reaching similar higher price points, but for buyers seeking the lowest entry cost, the Rav4 is more budget-friendly.