2025 Mazda CX-50 vs 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 was a standout in the compact SUV segment, boasting an attractive design that borrowed from the CX-5 but added its own flair with pronounced fender flares and a wider grille. This gave it a sporty yet elegant stance. Inside, the CX-50 featured a traditional layout with high-quality materials, including soft-touch surfaces and sturdy plastics. The interior was enhanced by distinct stitching and exclusive red leather upholstery in the hybrid model. However, the decorative stripe running down the seats was a point of contention for some, as its placement could feel awkward. Despite this, the CX-50 positioned itself as a contender in the entry-level luxury class with its design and interior quality.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid offered a variety of designs, but the PHEV was limited to the Rugged Woodland trim and three Sport grades, including the exclusive GR Sport. The RAV4 maintained its footprint but added buffer bumpers for a more truck-like presence. The Woodland trim emphasized its boxy design with wide fascia and solid panels, while the Sport trims featured gloss black accents and racier elements like red brake calipers and a wide mesh grille. The GR Sport trim, inspired by Toyota's Gazoo Racing division, stood out with its performance-oriented features. Inside, the RAV4 PHEV offered a standard 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a touchscreen system, with the GR Sport and XSE trims providing additional luxury features like ventilated seats.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid debuted with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with three electric motors, delivering 219 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque. It featured all-wheel drive but wasn't designed for serious off-road use. The powertrain was borrowed from the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, providing a familiar and reliable performance. The CX-50's acceleration was comparable to the RAV4 Hybrid, reaching 60 mph in approximately 7.5 to 8 seconds. The driving experience was enhanced by sportier suspension tuning, offering engaging handling and minimal body roll. However, this resulted in a firmer ride quality, though it remained smooth and quiet on highways.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured an updated 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine with 324 horsepower, making it the most powerful RAV4 to date. It had a larger 22.7-kwh battery pack, increasing the electric range to 52 miles. The RAV4 PHEV offered multiple driving modes, including EV, Auto, Hybrid, and Charge, allowing for versatile performance. In EV mode, it excelled in quiet cruising, while Auto mode delivered impressive acceleration with a 0-60 mph time in the low five seconds. The GR Sport trim offered enhanced handling with a lower ride height and performance tires. Despite its weight, the RAV4 PHEV maintained a spirited ride without sacrificing comfort.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 offered a comfortable driving experience but fell short in practicality and space compared to competitors. While the front seats provided ample room, the rear seats were less accommodating for taller passengers. Personal storage was adequate, but rivals offered more options. The cargo space was limited to 29.2 cubic feet, which was below the class average. However, the CX-50 included a power liftgate and convenient features like remote rear seatback releases and shopping bag hooks.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid maintained its dimensions but optimized interior space with clever storage solutions. The SE trim included conveniences like a power driver's seat and heated front seats, while higher trims offered synthetic leather upholstery and ventilated seats. The interior featured multiple storage shelves and deep door pockets. Passenger space was comfortable, with 37.8 inches of rear legroom, though it fell short of larger models. The cargo area offered 33.6 cubic feet, with a flat floor and a temporary spare tire under the cargo floor.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 featured a 10.25-inch infotainment system controlled by a dial on the center console, with touchscreen functionality limited to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This setup appealed to those who preferred a less distracting interface. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with a wireless charging pad available on higher trims. The audio system ranged from a basic eight-speaker setup to a 12-speaker Bose premium system on the Premium trim.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.5-inch touchscreen system, with a larger 12.9-inch touchscreen on top trims. The touchscreen featured customizable tiles and a quick menu for easy access to settings. Toyota's new operating system, Arene, improved responsiveness and voice assistant capabilities. The RAV4 PHEV also included a built-in dash cam and the ability to locate chargers along routes.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid earned five stars in NHTSA crash tests, except for rollover protection, where it received four stars. It included driver assistance features like frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The adaptive cruise control was noted for its smooth operation.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid came with Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features. These included automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitors, and a safe-exit alert. The RAV4's safety record was historically strong, and the redesign aimed to address previous shortcomings.