The 2023 Mazda CX-5 and the Hyundai Tucson both feature standard powertrains that generate 187 horsepower and automatic transmissions for smooth and quick shifts. However, the engine of the Mazda CX-5 produces 186 lb-ft of torque, which easily surpasses the 178 lb-ft of torque in the Tucson. Translated, you’ll experience more get up and go in the Mazda CX-5.

All trims of the Tucson come with Front Wheel Drive with All Wheel Drive (AWD) optional. Meanwhile, the 2023 Mazda CX-5 comes standard with i-Activ AWD®, which sends torque to all four wheels and provides more grip and better traction, even in slippery conditions.

For an even more spirited drive, the 2023 Mazda CX-5 has an available Skyactiv®-G 2.5 Dynamic Pressure Turbo 4-cylinder engine. This motor produces up to 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque for a truly exhilarating performance on the open road. Soaring down the highway is an experience unlike any other, so this engine is a smart choice for drivers looking for a thrilling drive.

On the other hand, the Hyundai Tucson has just the one 187-horsepower engine available, so you won’t have the power of choice. In a head-to-head competition of power, the choice is clear. If you’re looking for extra power and oomph under the hood, the Mazda CX-5 is the right SUV for you.

To help keep you more engaged while on the go, the Mazda CX-5 and the Hyundai Tucson feature infotainment touchscreens with standard Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ integration. Plus, both the Mazda CX-5 and the Tucson have standard Bluetooth® hands-free phone and audio capability. That way, you can access your playlists, contacts, maps, and more, and do so safely too! Despite this similarity, it may prove easier to use them in the Mazda CX-5.

That’s because the Hyundai Tucson features an 8-inch display, although it offers an available 10.25-inch screen in higher trim levels. Conversely, in the Mazda CX-5, you’ll enjoy a standard 10.25-inch touchscreen in every trim, no upgrade required. This larger screen makes your messages, music, apps, and other functions easier to read and access as you drive.

If you’re looking to satisfy your inner audiophile, you’ll want the quality of a premium audio system. In the Hyundai Tucson, you can play your favorite artists through the available Bose® premium audio system. It features eight speakers set up around the cabin.

In the Mazda CX-5, you can likewise experience the professional quality of an available Bose® premium audio system. However, the Mazda CX-5 offers a Bose® surround sound system with Centerpoint® and AudioPilot® . A total of 10 uniquely designed speakers are laid throughout the cabin to turn your drive into your own personal concert hall. If you want the optimal listening experience, you can enjoy it courtesy of the Mazda CX-5.

The Mazda Connect™ display comes with a Multifunction Commander control in the center console for simplified navigation through various entertainment settings. In the Tucson, you’ll have to scroll through your system the old-fashioned way, which may lead to more distractions when cruising on the open road.

Both models comes standard with some similar safety systems, including brand-specific versions of Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert to detect vehicles approaching your side blind zones on the highway and when in reverse.

The Mazda CX-5 also has advanced safety technology that isn’t found in the Tucson. An available Active Driving Display with Traffic Sign Recognition System projects vital driving information and detected speed limit signs into your line of sight on the windshield.

Without this feature in the Tucson, you’ll have to take your eyes off the ever-changing road to access your current speed limit and navigation instructions.

In addition to these features, the Mazda CX-5 offers plenty of other safety systems that the Tucson lacks on any of its trims. Hill Launch Assist will help manage stop-and-go traffic on inclines for more stability.

The Adaptive Front-lighting System in the Mazda CX-5 is a handy feature that both improves visibility and illuminates any potential hazards in your path. As you make a turn or round a corner, the LED headlights automatically pivot in the direction of the turn!

There are even more safety features included in every Mazda CX-5. These driver-assistive technologies also come standard on the Mazda CX-5 to make it a secure drive: