Compact SUV customers have extra choices than customers in search of nearly some other sort of auto. That may make the duty appear overwhelming – notably when there are a number of proper solutions. However even the very best of them have completely different strengths and weaknesses.

The Mazda CX-5 and Hyundai Tucson, as an illustration, are each robust contenders. However some patrons would possibly desire the sportier Mazda. Others would possibly need the added house and longer guarantee of the Hyundai. Let’s evaluate them.

2023 Mazda CX-5

The Mazda CX-5 is known for its crisp dealing with and premium inside regardless of an affordable price ticket. It’s a tad extra tight on house in comparison with a few of the competitors, however that’s a concession to its curvy seems, and nothing else within the class is as a lot enjoyable. Pricing begins at $26,700.

Mazda CX-5 Highlights

Finest-in-class dealing with: Few of us consider compact SUVs as efficiency vehicles. However the CX-5 does a convincing imitation of 1 on a freeway cloverleaf. Torque vectoring helps it keep unusually flat in laborious cornering, and an non-compulsory turbocharged engine with as much as 256 horsepower (227 with common, 87-octane fuel) provides to the enjoyable.

Premium inside: Mazda designers constantly discover methods to make mainstream interiors that really feel nearly like luxurious automobile interiors. The bottom CX-5 doesn’t pull the trick off nicely. However transfer into higher trims and also you’ll discover Caturra Brown Nappa leather-based seats, actual wooden trim, and a Bose audio system, all within the mid-$30,000 vary.

Customary AWD: Each CX-5 has grippy all-wheel drive (AWD) as normal tools. You’ll need to pay $1,500 additional for it on the Tucson. You’ll need it if you happen to dwell in a hilly locale or an space with intense winters. You would possibly as nicely not pay additional for it.

Test this week’s Honest Buy Value or see the CX-5 fashions on the market close to you

2023 Hyundai Tucson

The Hyundai Tucson is extra spacious than the everyday compact SUV regardless of protecting its yes-you-can-fit-in-that-parallel-parking-space dimension. It’s accessible with a number of completely different drivetrains, and better trim ranges embrace luxury-like choices comparable to self-parking tech. Pricing begins at $26,900.

Hyundai Tucson Highlights

Numerous inside house: The Tucson is extra spacious than nearly some other compact SUV. Its cargo maintain dwarfs that of the CX-5, although their exterior dimensions aren’t very completely different.

Gasoline, hybrid, plug-in choices: Hyundai can promote you a conventionally powered Tucson, a hybrid version that will get as much as 38 mpg in mixed driving, or a plug-in hybrid able to touring 33 miles on electrical energy and utilizing gasoline for longer journeys. Mazda solely sells gas-powered CX-5 fashions.

Distinctive guarantee: Individuals are protecting their vehicles longer than ever today. Shopping for a Tucson will set you up nicely to try this. It’s backed by a 5-year/60,000-mile fundamental guarantee and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain guarantee – every longer than the CX-5’s equal.

Test this week’s Honest Buy Value or see the Tucson fashions on the market close to you

Similarities

Every has 5-Star security scores, related base engines, and beginning costs so shut it most likely doesn’t have an effect on your determination

Conclusion

The Mazda CX-5 and Hyundai Tucson are each close to the highest of the compact SUV class as a result of they’re so well-balanced. Customers might purchase both one and chalk up a win.

However some would possibly desire the Mazda’s athletic street manners and non-compulsory energy or want its normal AWD for snowy climate. Others would possibly just like the monetary predictability of the Hyundai’s lengthy warranties and love its midsize-SUV-like cargo house. The Tucson additionally provides a pair of hybrid choices, although they’re pricier.