Mazda CX-5 vs Toyota RAV4 | Best SUV Choice for Australian Families

When it comes to choosing a reliable, versatile, and family-friendly SUV in Australia, two names consistently dominate shortlists: the Mazda CX-5 and the Toyota RAV4. Both models are household names, celebrated for their blend of practicality, value, and driving comfort.

But which SUV truly delivers the better package for Australian families in 2025? To answer that, we’ll dive deep into every detail—pricing, specs, engine options, features, safety, interior practicality, ownership costs, and long-term value.

This guide will help you make an informed decision before signing on the dotted line at your local Mazda or Toyota dealership.

The SUV Battle in Australia

SUVs now make up more than half of new car sales in Australia, with mid-size SUVs being the heart of that boom. Families want safety, comfort, efficiency, and space, and the Mazda CX-5 and Toyota RAV4 consistently deliver.

• The Mazda CX-5 appeals with its premium styling, driver-focused dynamics, and well-appointed interior.

• The Toyota RAV4, particularly in hybrid form, wins hearts with its unmatched efficiency, strong resale value, and Toyota’s bulletproof reliability.

Both sit in the medium SUV class, competing not just against each other but also against Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Subaru Forester, and Honda CR-V. Yet, time and again, it’s the CX-5 vs RAV4 showdown that Aussie buyers face.

Pricing and Variants in Australia

Both Mazda and Toyota offer broad line-ups catering to budget-conscious buyers and those seeking luxury.

Mazda CX-5 Price Range (2025 in Australia)

• Entry model from around $36,000 drive-away.

• Mid-spec Maxx Sport and Touring variants hover between $42,000–$50,000.

• Top-end GT SP and Akera models touch $60,000+ drive-away, especially with AWD and turbo engines.

Toyota RAV4 Price Range (2025 in Australia)

• Base GX petrol FWD from $38,000 drive-away.

• Mid-tier GXL and Cruiser range between $45,000–$55,000.

• Range-topping Edge Hybrid AWD climbs to $65,000+ drive-away in some states due to strong demand and dealer mark-ups.

Verdict on pricing:
The Mazda CX-5 has slightly lower entry costs, but the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid commands a premium due to demand and efficiency. For families, the question is whether you value upfront savings (CX-5) or long-term fuel savings (RAV4 Hybrid).

Engine Options and Performance

Mazda CX-5

Mazda keeps things traditional with petrol and diesel powertrains.

• 2.0L Petrol (115kW/200Nm): Adequate for city driving, but underwhelming on highways.

• 2.5L Petrol (140kW/252Nm): The sweet spot for most Aussie families.

• 2.5L Turbo Petrol (170kW/420Nm): Punchy, fun to drive, and unique in this segment.

• 2.2L Diesel (140kW/450Nm): Great for towing and highway touring.

The CX-5 stands out with sportier handling, feeling more like a hatchback than an SUV.

Toyota RAV4

Toyota has leaned heavily into hybrids.

• 2.0L Petrol (127kW/203Nm): Basic engine for entry-level trims.

• 2.5L Petrol (152kW/243Nm): Adequate, but rarely chosen given hybrid popularity.

• 2.5L Hybrid (160kW FWD, 163kW AWD): The star of the range, blending performance and fuel economy effortlessly.

RAV4’s hybrid system makes it one of the most efficient SUVs in Australia without compromising everyday performance.

Performance verdict:

• CX-5 wins if you love driving, especially with the turbo engine.

• RAV4 wins for daily family duty, thanks to smooth hybrid performance and efficiency.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel bills are a major concern for Aussie families, especially with rising petrol prices.

• Mazda CX-5:

  • 2.0L petrol – around 7.0–7.5L/100km

  • 2.5L petrol – 7.5–8.2L/100km

  • Turbo petrol – 8.5–9.5L/100km

  • Diesel – 5.7–6.0L/100km

• Toyota RAV4:

  • Petrol – 7.0–7.5L/100km

  • Hybrid – 4.7–5.0L/100km (real-world family driving often under 5.5L/100km)

Efficiency verdict:
The RAV4 Hybrid is the clear winner. For families clocking 15,000–20,000km a year, savings quickly stack up compared to petrol CX-5s.

Interior Comfort and Practicality

Mazda CX-5 Interior

Mazda is often praised for delivering premium-like cabins at mainstream prices.

• Quality soft-touch materials and minimalist design.

• Supportive seats, though rear legroom is tighter than rivals.

• Boot space at 438L, expandable to 1340L with seats folded—smaller than RAV4.

Toyota RAV4 Interior

The RAV4 focuses on space and practicality.

• More hard plastics than Mazda but rugged and durable.

• Rear seat space is excellent, perfect for growing kids or tall passengers.

• Boot capacity is 580L, expanding to over 1690L—one of the biggest in its class.

Interior verdict:
Mazda feels more premium, but Toyota is roomier and more family-friendly.

Technology and Infotainment

• Mazda CX-5:

  • 10.25-inch screen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto (wireless on some variants).

  • Standard six-speaker sound system, upgradable to Bose 10-speaker.

  • Slightly slower infotainment interface compared to rivals.

• Toyota RAV4:

  • 10.5-inch screen with wireless CarPlay and Android Auto.

  • 12.3-inch digital driver’s display in higher trims.

  • Optional JBL premium audio.

Technology verdict: RAV4 edges ahead with more modern displays and wireless tech across the board.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Both SUVs score 5-star ANCAP safety ratings, but Toyota offers slightly more as standard.

• Mazda CX-5:

  • Standard adaptive cruise, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, AEB with pedestrian detection.

  • Some features reserved for higher trims.

• Toyota RAV4:

  • Toyota Safety Sense standard across all grades.

  • Includes AEB, adaptive cruise, lane trace assist, traffic sign recognition, and junction assist.

Safety verdict: Both are excellent, but Toyota offers more driver aids even at entry-level.

Ownership Costs and Reliability

• Mazda CX-5:

  • Servicing every 12 months/15,000km.

  • Service costs average $350–$450 per visit.

  • Mazda reliability is strong, but turbo engines may incur higher long-term running costs.

• Toyota RAV4:

  • Servicing every 12 months/15,000km.

  • Capped-price servicing – around $260 per service for the first five years.

  • Toyota enjoys Australia’s strongest reputation for reliability and resale.

Ownership verdict: Toyota is cheaper to service and retains value better, especially hybrids.

Driving Experience: Comfort vs Engagement

• Mazda CX-5: Feels sharp, engaging, and refined. Excellent suspension tuning, perfect for those who still love driving.

• Toyota RAV4: More relaxed and comfort-oriented. Handles bumps well but doesn’t feel as agile.

It boils down to preference: driver enjoyment (CX-5) vs ease and comfort (RAV4).

Which SUV is Better for Australian Families?

Both SUVs excel, but they cater to slightly different buyers.

• Choose the Mazda CX-5 if:

  • You want a premium cabin feel without luxury-brand pricing.

  • Driving enjoyment is important.

  • You prefer more engine variety, including turbo petrol and diesel.

• Choose the Toyota RAV4 if:

  • Fuel efficiency and low running costs are top priorities.

  • You need maximum boot space and rear seat comfort.

  • You value Toyota’s unbeatable resale and hybrid technology.

Final Verdict

For driving enthusiasts, the Mazda CX-5 remains a gem—stylish, fun, and premium-feeling.

For practical Aussie families, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid edges out as the smarter buy, thanks to its space, efficiency, and unbeatable ownership value.

Ultimately, both are outstanding family SUVs. The choice comes down to whether you prioritise driving feel or everyday practicality.