Why does Mazda have two entries in the same class? Is one better than the other? Is the 2026 CX-5 or CX-50 better than the Tucson?

Get all the details about these new compact SUVs in Avondale from this question and answer format. There are a few handy charts to help you compare the Tucson vs Mazda CX-5 vs CX50 this model year.

What’s New for 2026?

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 and CX-50 are compact SUVs with different personalities. While the engines and technologies are the same, there are differences in style and focus. The CX-5 is more of an urban runabout while the 2026 Mazda CX-50 makes claims to adventurous driving.

Compared to the new CX-5, the 2026 CX-50 has a slightly smaller footprint and a more rugged stance. Exterior design elements indicate that it’s more of a casual off-roader than a serious adventure machine. As the sportier model, it offers two engine upgrades, including a new hybrid.

What’s the Difference between the 2026 Mazda CX-5 and CX-50?

Simply put, the 2026 Hyundai Tucson is bigger than the completely redesigned CX-5 . It’s bigger than the 2026 Mazda CX-5 in Avondale, whether talking about cargo hold, cargo area, or passenger space. In fact, the Tucson continues to have best-in-class rear legroom.

To learn more about Hyundai amenities and trim levels, check out this new Tucson overview. If your first language is Spanish, reach out to one of the many fluent Spanish speakers at our dealership, Earnhardt Hyundai in Avondale.



What’s the Difference in the Hyundai Tucson vs Mazda CX5 Size?

Simply put, the Hyundai Tucson is a lot bigger than the CX-5. The passenger cabin has about ten more cubes of wiggle room. The cargo area has an extra 8 cubes of space.

Even the Tucson PHEV has half a cube more cargo space than the CX-5. The difference continues with about 15 cubes difference between the Hyundai vs Mazda total cargo area. To learn more about Hyundai amenities and trim levels, check out this new Tucson overview.

What’s the Difference in the Hyundai Tucson vs CX-50 Size?

The 2026 Mazda CX-50 cabin is rated at just over 100 cubic feet while the Tucson claims that giant 108 cube passenger space. You can choose the Tucson Hybrid (107.9 cubes) or the Tucson Plug in Hybrid (105.9 cubes) and still have much more space for your friends, kids, and/or baby car seats.

In fact, the CX-50 rear seats are rather flat and uninviting for long intervals. Furthermore, the middle passenger is crowded by the way the CX-50 outboard rear seats have been sculpted 



What’s the Utility Difference for the Tucson vs CX5 vs CX50?

Compared to the CX-5, the Hyundai Tucson is a bit tougher and definitely offers the equipment to allow for some off-roading. CX-5 AWD ground clearance is either 7.6 or 7.9 inches. Tucson AWD ground clearance is 8.3 inches. 

When it comes to adventure driving, the CX-50 adds more equipment that moves it closer to the Tucson for off-roading. The rugged CX-50 claims 8.6 inches, a mere 0.3 difference from the Tucson with all-wheel drive.

The standard tow rating for the 2026 CX5, CX50 and Tucson is 2,000 pounds. However, the Mazda CX-50 Turbo is rated for 3,500 lbs with the right equipment.

How Do the Engines Differ in the Mazda CX50, CX5, and Tucson?

The Tucson has a standard 187-horsepower ICE powertrain while the 2026 Mazda CX-5 and CX-50 have a similar 187-horsepower engine. If fuel economy is important to your budget, you’ll appreciate the front-wheel drive Tucson earns better numbers than either Mazda SUV.

Quite competitive, the Tucson Hybrid generates a solid 226 horsepower with its combination of gas engine, hybrid battery, and electric motors. Plus, earning 37 or 38 combined mpg, the Tucson Hybrid saves big money at the pump over the 2026 CX-50 or CX5 in Avondale.

2026 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid starts at $32,450 MSRP. The 2026 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid starts at approximately $34,750, a $2,000 premium over the Tucson Hybrid. While they both achieve 38 mpg, the Mazda output is just 219 horsepower. 

Only the Hyundai is offered as a plug in hybrid. The Tucson PHEV can claim 33 miles of electric range and 35-mpg hybrid fuel economy. Drivers enjoy an incredible 80 mpg-equivalent with regular gas. So that’s quite a big savings over the standard or turbo Mazda engines.

 It even pulls ahead with 261 combined horsepower to make it the top earner among these Hyundai and Mazda compact SUVs in Phoenix.  

Why Choose the 2026 Tucson? 

More Tech for Less: Get a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen without having to upgrade to the most expensive trim level.

Best-in-Class Cargo: With over 80 cu ft of space, the Tucson offers nearly 24 more cubic feet of room than the Mazda CX-50.

True Versatility: Match the "off-road" ground clearance of the CX-50 (8.3") while enjoying a smoother, more comfortable ride on the highway.

10-Year Advantage: Providing up to 5 more years of coverage, the 10-Year/100,000-Mile Powertrain Limited Warranty comes standard with every Tucson. You won’t find this deal at a Phoenix Mazda dealership.

Top Accolades: US News and World Report ranks the Tucson #1 in the compact SUV category. Plus the magazine names it 2026 Best Compact SUV for the Money Award. 

To have some fun while learning more, schedule a test drive. Your Phoenix area Hyundai dealer is Earnhardt Hyundai in Avondale.  We are proud that our staff includes many Spanish speakers to assist our Hispanic customers.

More FAQs

What’s New for the 2026 Mazda CX-5 in Avondale AZ?

This model year marks a complete redesign. This allowed the CX-5 to grow bigger, although it still doesn’t match the Hyundai Tucson. Mazda stretched it by 4.5 inches. The brand learned into the SUV’s urban image with sleeker styling and more technology. It’s offered with a single engine choice at Avondale Mazda dealers.

What’s New for the 2026 Mazda CX-50 in Avondale AZ?

For 2026, Mazda added more insulation to keep the cabin quieter. Exterior elements such as plastic cladding are meant to demonstrate a more rugged demeanor. The regular engine can be upgraded to a turbo or a hybrid.

What’s New for the 2026 Hyundai Tucson in Avondale AZ?

2025 was a complete redesign that “leapfrogged” the previous model, according to Consumer Reports.  Critics praise the 2026 edition for a bolder look, sharper handling, a smoother ride quality, and a quieter, more comfortable cabin. Tucson price points are praised for their good value with more standard features, even at the entry level.