What To Know
- Both the Hyundai Santa Fe and the Mazda CX-5 have earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
- The Hyundai Santa Fe’s infotainment system offers a wider range of features, including a built-in navigation system and a wireless charging pad.
- However, the Santa Fe offers more standard features and a wider range of engine options, making it a more compelling value proposition for some buyers.
In the realm of midsize SUVs, two formidable contenders stand out: the Hyundai Santa Fe and the Mazda CX-5. Both vehicles have earned accolades for their impressive features, stylish designs, and reliable performance. But which one emerges as the superior choice? This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of each SUV, providing valuable insights to help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Efficiency: A Duel of Power and Economy
The Hyundai Santa Fe offers a range of engine options, including a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, and a 3.5-liter V6. The Mazda CX-5, on the other hand, comes equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. Both SUVs provide ample power for everyday driving, with the Santa Fe’s V6 engine delivering an exhilarating driving experience.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Mazda CX-5 holds a slight edge over the Hyundai Santa Fe. The CX-5’s 2.5-liter engine returns an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, while the Santa Fe’s 2.5-liter engine achieves 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. However, the Santa Fe’s larger engine options offer more power at the expense of fuel economy.
Interior Comfort and Convenience: A Battle of Refinement and Functionality
The Hyundai Santa Fe boasts a spacious and well-appointed cabin, with ample room for passengers and cargo. The interior features high-quality materials and a user-friendly infotainment system. The Mazda CX-5’s cabin is equally impressive, offering a sleek and modern design with intuitive controls and comfortable seating.
When it comes to cargo capacity, the Hyundai Santa Fe offers a generous 36.4 cubic feet of space behind the second row of seats, expandable to 72.1 cubic feet with the second row folded down. The Mazda CX-5 provides a slightly smaller cargo area, with 30.9 cubic feet behind the second row and 59.6 cubic feet with the second row folded down.
Safety Features: A Comparison of Advanced Technologies
Both the Hyundai Santa Fe and the Mazda CX-5 have earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Both vehicles offer a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.
The Hyundai Santa Fe comes standard with a blind-spot monitoring system and rear cross-traffic alert, while the Mazda CX-5 offers these features as optional extras. Additionally, the Santa Fe features a surround-view camera system, providing a comprehensive view of the vehicle’s surroundings.
Technology and Connectivity: A Showcase of Innovation
The Hyundai Santa Fe and the Mazda CX-5 are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and connectivity features. Both SUVs feature user-friendly infotainment systems with large touchscreens, smartphone integration, and premium audio systems.
The Hyundai Santa Fe’s infotainment system offers a wider range of features, including a built-in navigation system and a wireless charging pad. The Mazda CX-5’s infotainment system, on the other hand, features a more intuitive interface and a larger touchscreen.
Driving Dynamics: A Balance of Comfort and Agility
The Hyundai Santa Fe provides a comfortable and composed ride, with a well-tuned suspension that absorbs bumps and road imperfections. The Mazda CX-5, on the other hand, offers a more engaging driving experience, with precise handling and responsive steering.
Both SUVs offer all-wheel drive as an option, providing enhanced traction and stability in inclement weather conditions. However, the Mazda CX-5’s all-wheel drive system is more sophisticated, offering improved off-road capabilities.
Price and Value: A Matter of Budget and Priorities
The Hyundai Santa Fe has a starting price of $28,850, while the Mazda CX-5 starts at $26,800. However, the Santa Fe offers more standard features and a wider range of engine options, making it a more compelling value proposition for some buyers.
The Mazda CX-5, on the other hand, offers a more engaging driving experience and a more refined interior. Additionally, the CX-5’s fuel efficiency may appeal to buyers who prioritize economy over power.
The Final Verdict: Choosing the Right SUV for Your Needs
The Hyundai Santa Fe and the Mazda CX-5 are both excellent midsize SUVs with unique strengths and weaknesses. The Santa Fe offers more space, features, and power, while the CX-5 provides a more engaging driving experience and better fuel economy.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you prioritize space, features, and power, the Hyundai Santa Fe is the ideal choice. If you prioritize driving dynamics, fuel efficiency, and a refined interior, the Mazda CX-5 is the better option.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Additional Factors
Beyond the core aspects of performance, interior, safety, technology, and price, there are a few additional factors to consider when choosing between the Hyundai Santa Fe and the Mazda CX-5.
- Reliability: Both the Hyundai Santa Fe and the Mazda CX-5 have a reputation for reliability, with the CX-5 consistently ranking higher in J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study.
- Warranty: The Hyundai Santa Fe comes with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, while the Mazda CX-5 offers a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
- Availability: The Hyundai Santa Fe is more widely available than the Mazda CX-5, especially in certain regions.
- Resale Value: The Hyundai Santa Fe typically holds its value better than the Mazda CX-5, making it a more financially sound investment in the long run.
Questions You May Have
Q: Which SUV is more fuel-efficient, the Hyundai Santa Fe or the Mazda CX-5?
A: The Mazda CX-5 is more fuel-efficient, with an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway compared to the Santa Fe‘s 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
Q: Which SUV has more cargo space, the Hyundai Santa Fe or the Mazda CX-5?
A: The Hyundai Santa Fe offers more cargo space, with 36.4 cubic feet behind the second row of seats and 72.1 cubic feet with the second row folded down compared to the CX-5’s 30.9 cubic feet behind the second row and 59.6 cubic feet with the second row folded down.
Q: Which SUV has a better warranty, the Hyundai Santa Fe or the Mazda CX-5?
A: The Hyundai Santa Fe comes with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, while the Mazda CX-5 offers a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.