2025 Mazda CX-50 vs. Hyundai TUCSON

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 and 2025 Hyundai TUCSON are two mighty rivals offering unique mixes of style, performance, and tech features that appeal to different types of drivers. In this face-off against each other, we’ll dig into what sets these compact SUVs apart so you can figure out which might be your perfect match.

Exterior and Interior Design

While both models are good-looking SUVs, the CX-50 rocks a bold, athletic build with muscular fenders and a confident stance. On the other hand, the TUCSON takes a futuristic approach with its eye-catching grille and LED daytime running lights.

The CX-50 is longer at 185.8 inches and wider at 80.8 inches, while the TUCSON is more compact at 182.7 inches long and 73.4 inches wide. But the TUCSON stands taller at 66.3 inches versus the CX-50’s height of around 63.9 inches and offers 41.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seats and a whopping 80.3 cubic feet with the seats down. The CX-50 still offers a respectable 31.4 and 56.3 cubic feet. Both models start with 17-inch wheels on the base trims, but the CX-50 offers larger 20-inch versions on higher trims.

Inside these SUVs, you’ll find quite a few differences. Mazda’s cabin feels sophisticated with quality materials and a driver-oriented layout, while the TUCSON feels more like a tech hub with its optional 12.3-inch digital dash and standard 12.3-inch screen. When it comes to passenger space, the TUCSON has slightly more room at 108.2 cubic feet versus 100.3 in the CX-50.

Performance and Driving Experience

Both SUVs are perfect for California driving. The CX-50 features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder generating 187 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque — ideal for cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway. A more powerful twin-scroll turbo engine with 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque is also available. The TUCSON counters with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder delivering 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque.

With high gas prices, both crossovers shine. The CX-50 manages about 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway with the base engine, while the Hyundai hits 25 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. Both SUVs also offer a hybrid version for even more fuel savings. For more information about the 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid specs compared to the TUCSON Hybrid, check out our detailed comparison.

Mazda includes i-ACTIV all-wheel drive (AWD) standard on every CX-50. This system adapts to all road conditions, whether you’re facing SoCal downpours or exploring dirt roads. The TUCSON comes with front-wheel drive unless you pay extra for AWD. As for handling, Mazda edges ahead thanks to its G-Vectoring Control Plus system that makes cornering easy and driving fun.

Technology and Safety Features

Both SUVs offer tech that simplifies SoCal life. The CX-50 features a 10.25-inch touch screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for cable-free coastal navigation. If you love music, you’ll appreciate the optional 12-speaker Bose surround sound system. The TUCSON answers with a larger 12.3-inch display and optional digital instrument panel. You can turn these vehicles into Wi-Fi hot spots while waiting in traffic or use their smartphone apps to handle remote tasks, such as cooling sunbaked interiors, checking fuel, or confirming the car doors are locked.

On safety, they’re evenly matched. Both include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping, and automatic emergency braking systems to keep you protected on the road. When deciding between the Hyundai TUCSON vs. the Mazda CX-50, you should test-drive them to figure out which interface feels most natural.

Pricing and Ownership Costs

The CX-50 ranges from $30,500 to $43,500, while the TUCSON starts slightly lower at $28,705 and climbs to $38,645. However, the CX-50’s more powerful engine options and wide range of standard premium features make up for this price difference.

Both brands also boast solid track records when it comes to reliability. The TUCSON includes a five-year/60,000-mile basic warranty plus a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty compared to Mazda’s three-year/36,000-mile basic and five-year/60,000-mile powertrain protection. Plus, thanks to these SUVs’ great fuel economy, you can save at the pump. These savings add up over time, especially if you opt for the hybrid models.

Which SUV Is Right for You?

Which SUV wins depends on what matters most to you as a SoCal driver. The Mazda CX-50 offers fun handling, a premium cabin experience, and standard AWD. It’s perfect for singles or smaller families who value performance over maximum space. On the other hand, the TUCSON gives you more cargo space and larger screens.

Our advice is to test-drive both SUVs. If you want to try the CX-50, visit Capistrano Mazda or contact us to schedule a test-drive. Our team can help find the perfect match for your Orange County lifestyle and budget.