2026 Mazda CX-5 vs 2026 Hyundai Tucson: Full Comparison
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 delivers 187 hp and standard i-ACTIV AWD® across all five trims. The gas-powered 2026 Hyundai Tucson also produces 187 hp but comes standard with front-wheel drive, with HTRAC AWD available. The CX-5 emphasizes standard all-wheel-drive capability, Mazda driving dynamics, and a large standard touchscreen. The Tucson counters with more cargo capacity, higher EPA-estimated fuel economy in its front-wheel-drive configuration, and available hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains. This comparison covers the key specifications, technology, safety, space, and ownership differences before directing you to current CX-5 inventory at Tuscaloosa Mazda.
The Short Answer
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 may be the better fit for shoppers who want all-wheel drive as standard equipment, a 12.9-inch touchscreen with Google built-in, and Mazda Intelligent Drive Select with Normal, Sport, and Off-Road modes.
The 2026 Hyundai Tucson may suit shoppers who prioritize maximum cargo capacity, higher fuel economy with front-wheel drive, longer original-owner warranty coverage, or access to hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains.
The most important differences are drivetrain packaging, cargo capacity, towing capability, warranty coverage, and electrified-powertrain availability.
Specs Head-to-Head
| Specification | 2026 Mazda CX-5 | 2026 Hyundai Tucson |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | SKYACTIV®-G 2.5-liter 4-cylinder | 2.5-liter GDI/MPI 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 187 hp |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | i-ACTIV AWD standard | FWD standard; HTRAC AWD available |
| EPA-estimated MPG | 24 city / 30 highway / 26 combined | FWD: 25 city / 33 highway / 28 combined; AWD: 24 city / 30 highway / 26 combined |
| Cargo behind rear seats | 33.7 cu ft | 41.2 cu ft under Hyundai’s measurement; 38.7 cu ft SAE |
| Maximum cargo volume | 66.5 cu ft | 80.3 cu ft under Hyundai’s measurement; 74.8 cu ft SAE |
| Overall length | 184.6 in | 182.7 in |
| Rear-seat configuration | 40/20/40 split-folding | 60/40 split-folding |
| Seating | 5 | 5 |
| New-vehicle limited warranty | 3 yr / 36,000 mi | 5 yr / 60,000 mi |
| Powertrain limited warranty | 5 yr / 60,000 mi | 10 yr / 100,000 mi for the original owner |
| Maximum towing capacity | 1,500 lbs | 2,750 lbs with trailer brakes |
Full 2026 Mazda CX-5 specs and trims
2026 Hyundai Tucson specifications
Performance and Powertrain
Both SUVs use naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engines producing 187 hp. The CX-5 generates 186 lb-ft of torque, compared with 178 lb-ft from the Tucson.
Mazda pairs its engine with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard i-ACTIV AWD. Hyundai uses an eight-speed automatic transmission and offers the gas-powered Tucson with either front-wheel drive or available HTRAC AWD.
The front-wheel-drive Tucson is EPA-estimated at 25 city / 33 highway / 28 combined MPG. Tucson models with HTRAC AWD are rated at 24 city / 30 highway / 26 combined MPG, matching the CX-5’s EPA-estimated rating with its standard all-wheel-drive system. Actual results will vary.
Mazda Intelligent Drive Select, or Mi-Drive, gives every CX-5 driver access to Normal, Sport, and Off-Road modes. Each mode adjusts vehicle response for different driving conditions.
For drivers encountering heavy rain, loose surfaces, or changing road conditions around Alabama, standard i-ACTIV AWD means every CX-5 trim includes all-wheel-drive capability. AWD can help improve traction but is not a substitute for attentive driving or appropriate tires.
CX-5 AWD and powertrain details
Interior, Space, and Cargo
The Tucson provides more cargo capacity under both Hyundai’s manufacturer measurement and its published SAE figures. Its SAE cargo volume measures 38.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 74.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. The CX-5 provides 33.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 66.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.
The CX-5 uses a 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat. Its separate folding center section allows owners to carry a longer item while retaining both outboard rear seating positions. The Tucson uses a conventional 60/40 split-folding rear bench.
Inside the CX-5, cloth-trimmed seating comes standard on the 2.5 S. Leatherette-trimmed seats with embossed microsuede inserts arrive on the 2.5 S Select, while leather-trimmed seating begins with the 2.5 S Premium.
The Tucson SE and SEL use stain-resistant cloth. H-Tex®-trimmed seating is included on the SEL Plus, XRT, and SEL Premium, while the Limited receives leather-trimmed seats.
The CX-5 adds a programmable power rear liftgate beginning with the 2.5 S Preferred. Its top Premium Plus trim upgrades to a hands-free power rear liftgate. The Tucson offers a hands-free smart liftgate with auto open beginning with the SEL.
The Tucson holds the advantage for maximum cargo capacity. The CX-5 counters with its 40/20/40 rear-seat flexibility, standard AWD packaging, and a cabin designed around a calm, functional, and driver-focused layout.
Technology and Connectivity
Every 2026 Mazda CX-5 includes a 12.9-inch center touchscreen, a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster, Google built-in, and wired Apple CarPlay® integration and Android Auto™ compatibility.
Google built-in provides access to Google Assistant, Google Maps, and compatible apps through Google Play. It is included through a complimentary one-year Mazda Connected Services trial. Subscription fees and connectivity requirements apply after the trial period.
Wireless Apple CarPlay integration, Android Auto compatibility, and wireless smartphone charging begin with the CX-5 2.5 S Select. The 2.5 S Premium adds a Bose® 12-speaker surround sound system with SiriusXM satellite radio. The Premium Plus replaces the 12.9-inch screen with a 15.6-inch center touchscreen and adds Cruising and Traffic Support with Lane Change Assist.
Every gas-powered 2026 Tucson includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Wireless device charging begins with the SEL.
The Tucson SE, SEL, SEL Plus, and XRT use a 4.2-inch gauge cluster. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, onboard navigation, and Highway Driving Assist 1 arrive on the SEL Premium and Limited. Bose premium audio is also included on the SEL Premium and Limited, while the head-up display is reserved for the Limited.
The CX-5 provides the larger standard center display, a fully digital 10.25-inch gauge cluster on every trim, and Google built-in. The Tucson provides wireless smartphone integration from its base SE trim.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Both SUVs include broad collections of standard driver-assistance features, but the systems and trim availability are not identical.
Standard 2026 Mazda CX-5 safety and driver-assistance features include:
- Smart Brake Support
- Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Speed Limit Assist
- Traffic Sign Recognition
- Rear Smart Brake Support
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert with Pedestrian Detection
- Turn-Across Traffic Alert
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Vehicle Exit Warning
- Driver Attention Alert
- Emergency Lane Keeping
- Front and rear parking sensors
Emergency Lane Keeping incorporates Blind Spot Assist, Road Keep Assist, and Head-on Traffic Avoidance. The 2.5 S Premium Plus adds Front Cross Traffic Alert and Braking, Driver Monitoring, an Adaptive Front-Lighting System, a 360° View Monitor, and Cruising and Traffic Support with Lane Change Assist.
Standard 2026 Hyundai Tucson safety and driver-assistance features include:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian, Cyclist, and Junction Turning Detection
- Blind-Spot Collision Warning
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Lane Following Assist
- Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go
- Driver Attention Warning
- Safe Exit Warning
Highway Driving Assist 1 is not standard on every Tucson trim. It is included on the SEL Premium and Limited.
The Tucson includes Junction Turning Detection with its standard forward collision system. The CX-5 includes Traffic Sign Recognition, front and rear parking sensors, Emergency Lane Keeping, and Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Speed Limit Assist across every trim.
2026 Mazda CX-5 safety features overview
Value, Efficiency, and Ownership
The Tucson provides longer factory warranty coverage. Its New Vehicle Limited Warranty lasts 5 yr / 60,000 mi, compared with 3 yr / 36,000 mi for the CX-5.
Hyundai’s 10 yr / 100,000 mi Powertrain Limited Warranty applies to the original owner. Subsequent owners do not receive the full 10-year / 100,000-mile powertrain term. Mazda provides a transferable 5 yr / 60,000 mi Powertrain Limited Warranty.
For fuel economy, the front-wheel-drive Tucson holds an advantage at an EPA-estimated 25 city / 33 highway / 28 combined MPG. The AWD Tucson and standard-AWD CX-5 are both rated at 24 city / 30 highway / 26 combined MPG. Actual results will vary.
At the base level, the CX-5 includes standard i-ACTIV AWD, a 12.9-inch touchscreen, a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster, and Google built-in. The Tucson SE includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which become wireless on the CX-5 beginning with the 2.5 S Select.
The Tucson also offers hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains. The 2026 Tucson Hybrid is available in front-wheel-drive and HTRAC AWD configurations depending on trim. The Tucson Plug-in Hybrid includes standard HTRAC AWD and an EPA-estimated 32-mile all-electric range.
The 2026 CX-5 launches exclusively with its SKYACTIV-G gasoline engine. Mazda has confirmed that a CX-5 hybrid powertrain will arrive for the 2027 model year.
Towing Capability
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 can tow up to 1,500 lbs when properly equipped. Mazda notes that the maximum rating must be reduced by the weight of passengers, cargo, the hitch, and optional equipment carried by the towing vehicle.
The gas-powered 2026 Tucson is rated to tow up to 2,750 lbs with trailer brakes. Its maximum rating without trailer brakes is 1,650 lbs. Proper towing equipment is required, and towing capacity can vary with vehicle loading and configuration.
The Tucson is the stronger choice for shoppers who need to tow beyond 1,500 lbs. Buyers should always confirm the specific vehicle, hitch, trailer-brake, tongue-weight, and loading requirements before towing.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Mazda CX-5 if:
- You want i-ACTIV AWD as standard equipment
- A 12.9-inch touchscreen and digital gauge cluster on every trim matter to you
- You want Google built-in beginning with the base model
- Mi-Drive Normal, Sport, and Off-Road modes fit your driving needs
- A 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat would be useful
- You prefer Mazda’s focus on responsive, driver-centered dynamics
Choose the 2026 Hyundai Tucson if:
- Maximum cargo capacity is a leading priority
- Higher highway fuel economy with front-wheel drive fits your commute
- Longer original-owner warranty coverage is important
- A hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrain is required
- You need more than 1,500 lbs of towing capacity
- Wireless smartphone integration from the base trim matters to you
See the 2026 Mazda CX-5 at Tuscaloosa Mazda
Specifications provide an important starting point, but a test drive lets you experience the CX-5’s steering response, visibility, seating position, touchscreen interface, and standard i-ACTIV AWD firsthand. Tuscaloosa Mazda offers current 2026 CX-5 inventory across multiple trims. Because availability changes regularly, use the live inventory page to check current trims, colors, and configurations before visiting. The Tuscaloosa Mazda team can help you compare the 2.5 S, 2.5 S Select, 2.5 S Preferred, 2.5 S Premium, and 2.5 S Premium Plus and identify the model that fits your driving needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 2026 Mazda CX-5 come with AWD standard?
Yes. Every 2026 CX-5 trim includes i-ACTIV AWD as standard equipment. The gas-powered Tucson comes standard with front-wheel drive and offers HTRAC AWD as an available drivetrain.
Which SUV has more cargo space, the CX-5 or the Tucson?
The Tucson provides more cargo space. Hyundai publishes 41.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 80.3 cubic feet with the seats folded. Its corresponding SAE measurements are 38.7 and 74.8 cubic feet. The CX-5 provides 33.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 66.5 cubic feet with them folded.
How does the 2026 CX-5’s fuel economy compare with the Tucson?
The CX-5 is EPA-estimated at 24 city / 30 highway / 26 combined MPG with standard AWD. The front-wheel-drive Tucson is rated at 25 city / 33 highway / 28 combined MPG. A Tucson with HTRAC AWD is rated at 24 city / 30 highway / 26 combined MPG, matching the CX-5. Actual results will vary.
Which SUV has the longer warranty?
The Tucson has longer factory coverage. It includes a 5 yr / 60,000 mi New Vehicle Limited Warranty and a 10 yr / 100,000 mi Powertrain Limited Warranty for the original owner. The CX-5 includes a 3 yr / 36,000 mi New-Vehicle Limited Warranty and a transferable 5 yr / 60,000 mi Powertrain Limited Warranty.
Does the 2026 CX-5 have wireless Apple CarPlay?
Wireless Apple CarPlay integration and Android Auto compatibility are standard on the 2.5 S Select and all higher trims. The base 2.5 S includes wired smartphone integration.
What technology does the CX-5 include that the Tucson does not?
The CX-5 includes Google built-in with Google Assistant, Google Maps, and access to compatible apps through Google Play. It also provides a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and 12.9-inch touchscreen on every trim.
The Tucson includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen on every trim, but its 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is standard on the SEL Premium and Limited. The Tucson provides wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto beginning with the base SE.
How much can the 2026 Mazda CX-5 tow?
The CX-5 can tow up to 1,500 lbs when properly equipped. Its maximum towing capacity must be reduced by the weight of passengers, cargo, the hitch, and optional equipment carried in the vehicle.
The gas-powered Tucson is rated to tow up to 2,750 lbs with trailer brakes and the required equipment.
Does Tuscaloosa Mazda have 2026 CX-5 inventory?
Yes. Tuscaloosa Mazda carries current 2026 CX-5 inventory across multiple trims. Use the inventory link on this page to review current availability or contact the dealership to check a specific trim or exterior color.
[Insert the current approved Mazda and Hyundai disclosures for EPA fuel economy, towing capacity, warranty coverage, Google built-in, Mazda Connected Services, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, i-Activsense safety features, Hyundai SmartSense safety features, HTRAC AWD, and electrified-driving range through the dealership website’s legal-disclaimer module.]
