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 generally wins for families and budget-conscious buyers in the UAE, primarily due to its exceptional hybrid fuel efficiency and massive cargo space. However, the Mazda CX-5 offers a more premium driving feel, a lower starting price, and a traditional automatic transmission for those prioritizing driving engagement and initial value.
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Price Comparison
Starting at90,250 – 145,000 AED99,900 – 152,900 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 Socket360-Degree Camera360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive BonnetActive SteeringAdaptive Suspension PackageAirbagsAluminum WheelsAnti theft alarmAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAUXBA (Brake Assist)BluetoothBody Colored MirrorsBonnet LightBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesClimate ControlCollision DetectionCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDifferential LockDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Electric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofFabric SeatsFire ExtinguisherFog Lamp - Front and RearFog Lamps - Front OnlyFoldable Rear SeatsFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberHalogen HeadlampsHDMIHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistImmobilizerISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLeather Gear Shift LeverLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLumbar SupportManual ACMap Reading LampsMulti-Information DisplayNavigation SystemNumber of SpeakersOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff-Road DampersParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower OutletsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRadioRear AC VentsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRoof RailsRoof SpoilerSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat Adjustment - ManualSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTouchscreenTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUrethane Steering WheelUSB PortVanity MirrorVehicle Stability Control (VSC)Welcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWheels - SteelWinchWind BlockerWireless Headphones

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Fuel Efficiency

The Toyota RAV4, especially its hybrid variant, is the clear winner for fuel efficiency, achieving as low as 4.1 L/100km. This makes it ideal for reducing running costs in the UAE.

2

Best for Cargo Space

For maximum utility and hauling capacity, the Toyota RAV4 takes the lead with an impressive 1,085 L of trunk space. The Mazda CX-5 offers a respectable 965 L, but the RAV4 is more generous.

3

Best for Driving Dynamics & Value

The Mazda CX-5 appeals to drivers seeking a more engaging experience with its traditional 6-speed automatic transmission and consistent acceleration. It also boasts a more accessible starting price.

4

Best for City Commuting

The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid's superior fuel economy in stop-and-go traffic (4.1 L/100km) makes it an excellent choice for urban commuters looking to save on petrol and navigate city streets efficiently.

Pros & cons

Mazda CX-5

Pros

  • More affordable starting price (90,250 AED)
  • Engaging driving with traditional 6-speed automatic
  • Consistent and quicker acceleration (7.5-7.6s)
  • Slightly higher top speed (210 km/h)

Cons

  • No hybrid powertrain option
  • Smaller maximum trunk capacity (965 L)
  • Lower max horsepower than RAV4's top trim
  • Less fuel efficient than RAV4 Hybrid

Toyota Rav4

Pros

  • Exceptional fuel economy with hybrid option (4.1 L/100km)
  • Significantly larger trunk capacity (1,085 L)
  • Higher maximum horsepower (203 hp)
  • Wider range of trims including hybrid

Cons

  • Higher starting price (99,900 AED)
  • Lower top speed (200 km/h)
  • Base petrol acceleration can be slower (up to 9.5s)
  • CVT transmission might not appeal to all drivers

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Mazda CX-5 or Toyota RAV4 more fuel efficient in the UAE?

The Toyota RAV4 is significantly more fuel-efficient, especially its hybrid variant, which achieves as low as 4.1 L/100km. The Mazda CX-5 offers a respectable 6.8 L/100km but lacks a hybrid option. For long-term savings on fuel, the RAV4 Hybrid is the clear winner.

Which car offers more cargo space, the Mazda CX-5 or Toyota RAV4?

The Toyota RAV4 provides substantially more cargo space, boasting a trunk capacity of 1,085 L. The Mazda CX-5, while still practical, offers a maximum of 965 L. If you frequently carry large items or need maximum utility, the RAV4 is the better choice.

Which is better for city driving, the Mazda CX-5 or Toyota RAV4?

For city driving, the Toyota RAV4, particularly its hybrid model, offers superior fuel economy in stop-and-go traffic with its 4.1 L/100km. The Mazda CX-5's 6.8 L/100km is good, but the RAV4's efficiency and higher seating position can make it a slightly more comfortable and economical urban commuter.

Which has better performance, the Mazda CX-5 or Toyota RAV4?

The Mazda CX-5 offers a more consistent and quicker acceleration range of 7.5-7.6 seconds and a higher top speed of 210 km/h. While the Toyota RAV4's top trims can reach 203 hp, its acceleration range is wider (7.5-9.5 seconds) and top speed is 200 km/h. For a sportier, more direct driving feel, the CX-5 might be preferred.