Why Choose the 2023 Toyota RAV4 over the 2023 Mazda CX-5?

It seems the 2023 Mazda CX-5 and 2023 Toyota RAV4 will go down in history as two of the biggest competitors ever to take the ring in the compact crossover segment. You won’t drive two blocks pretty much anywhere in Canada without seeing one, and likely more than one. It’s not fluke that this is the case; these are two very competitive vehicles, and we all know that competition breeds quality. 

Technology

For 2023, the RAV4 has received an all-new infotainment system that offers larger screens, more speed and more features than before. It’s also received “Hey, Toyota” voice activation commands that allow you to do everything from have your navigation system guide you to the nearest sushi spot, or turn your climate control temperature up. There’s also an all-new digital instrument panel on higher trims and compatibility for wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. 

For its part, the CX-5 has also received a new infotainment system for 2023 and it has a nice, big widescreen display and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, but it is not a touchscreen. Everything has to be navigated with a scroll wheel or voice command. 

Performance 

Both the 2023 Toyota RAV4 and 2023 Mazda CX-5 deliver above-average performance for the segment, but the 2023 RAV4 has the upper hand when looking at base powertrains. The RAV4 offers 203 horsepower out of the gate while the CX-5 has a 187-horsepower standard powertrain. The Toyota compact SUV therefore gives you more performance out of the gate while averaging the same fuel economy level as the 2023 CX-5. 

The 2023 RAV4 also has the advantage over the CX-5 in terms of efficiency with its two available hybrid powertrains, something you won’t find in the CX-5 lineup. 

Interior space

We buy an SUV because we need interior space, at least that’s the case for most buyers. With over 1,000 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, the 2023 RAV4 is one of the most versatile options in its class. The CX-5 on the other hand is actually one of the smallest SUVs in its segment with 871 litres of cargo space. The RAV4 also delivers more interior space overall than the CX-5. If space is one of your main buying criteria, the 2023 RAV4 has the advantage over the CX-5 by quite a margin.

Add to that the impressive reliability rating of the 2023 Toyota RAV4 and you quickly see why the 2023 Toyota RAV4 is not just the best-selling SUV in its segment, but also the most popular SUV in Canada overall. Give us a call today to learn more.