What To Know
- The Santa Fe boasts a user-friendly infotainment system with a large touchscreen, while the CX-5 features a Mazda Connect system with a rotary controller.
- In terms of safety, the Santa Fe received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, while the CX-5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS.
- The Hyundai Santa Fe comes with a 10-year/100,000-mile warranty, while the Mazda CX-5 has a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
The midsize SUV segment is fiercely competitive, with automakers offering a plethora of feature-rich and capable options. Two prominent contenders in this segment are the Hyundai Santa Fe and the Mazda CX-5. Both vehicles boast impressive performance, spacious interiors, and advanced technology. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Hyundai Santa Fe and the Mazda CX-5, helping you make an informed purchase decision.
Exterior Design: Bold vs Sleek
The Hyundai Santa Fe exudes a bold and rugged exterior, with its imposing grille and muscular lines. In contrast, the Mazda CX-5 presents a sleeker and more refined aesthetic, featuring a sculpted body and a flowing roofline. Both vehicles offer distinct styling cues that cater to different tastes.
Interior Space and Comfort: Roomy vs Cozy
Inside, the Santa Fe offers a spacious and versatile cabin with ample headroom and legroom for all occupants. The cabin features high-quality materials and a well-thought-out layout. The CX-5, on the other hand, provides a more intimate and cozy interior with a driver-centric design. Its premium materials and attention to detail create a luxurious ambiance.
Performance and Handling: Power vs Agility
Under the hood, the Santa Fe offers a choice of powerful engines, including a 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder and a 3.5L V6. The CX-5, on the other hand, features a 2.5L naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine. While the Santa Fe delivers impressive acceleration, the CX-5 excels in handling with its responsive steering and agile chassis.
Fuel Efficiency: Thrifty vs Moderate
When it comes to fuel economy, the Hyundai Santa Fe has a slight edge over the Mazda CX-5. The Santa Fe’s turbocharged engine offers a fuel economy of up to 28 mpg combined, while the CX-5’s naturally aspirated engine provides a combined fuel economy of 26 mpg.
Technology and Safety Features: Advanced vs Comprehensive
Both the Santa Fe and the CX-5 offer a comprehensive suite of technology and safety features. The Santa Fe boasts a user-friendly infotainment system with a large touchscreen, while the CX-5 features a Mazda Connect system with a rotary controller. In terms of safety, the Santa Fe received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, while the CX-5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS.
Price and Value: Affordable vs Premium
The Hyundai Santa Fe offers a lower starting price than the Mazda CX-5, making it a more budget-friendly option. However, the CX-5’s premium materials and refined driving experience may justify its higher price tag for some buyers.
Final Note: A Tale of Two SUVs
The Hyundai Santa Fe and the Mazda CX-5 are both exceptional midsize SUVs with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The Santa Fe offers a spacious interior, powerful engines, and a competitive price point. The CX-5, on the other hand, boasts a sleek design, agile handling, and a premium interior. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual preferences and priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?
A: The Hyundai Santa Fe offers a more spacious interior with more headroom and legroom.
Q: Which vehicle is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Hyundai Santa Fe has a slight edge over the Mazda CX-5 in terms of fuel economy.
Q: Which vehicle has a better infotainment system?
A: Both vehicles offer user-friendly infotainment systems, but the Santa Fe‘s touchscreen system is larger and more intuitive.
Q: Which vehicle is more reliable?
A: Both vehicles have a good reputation for reliability, but the Hyundai Santa Fe has a slightly higher predicted reliability rating.
Q: Which vehicle has a better warranty?
A: The Hyundai Santa Fe comes with a 10-year/100,000-mile warranty, while the Mazda CX-5 has a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.