Hyundai Santa Fe vs. Mazda CX-5: How These Popular SUVs Stack Up Across Size Classes

Shopping for an SUV means weighing what matters most to you and your family. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe and 2026 Mazda CX-5 sit in different size classes, but both show up on cross-shoppers’ lists. Santa Fe is a mid-size three-row SUV built for bigger families, while CX-5 is a compact two-row model focused on efficiency and driving feel. Despite the size difference, both offer solid reliability, modern technology, and practical designs. Let’s break down how these two stack up.

• Santa Fe is a mid-size SUV with three rows seating up to seven, while CX-5 is a compact model seating five.
• Santa Fe packs a turbocharged engine making 277 hp, while CX-5 launches with a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter producing 187 hp with a hybrid option coming in 2027.
• Both models come loaded with safety technology and large touchscreens, but differ in cargo space and towing ability.

Power and Performance

Hyundai brings serious punch with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder making 277 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. That’s paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission they swapped in for 2026, replacing last year’s dual-clutch setup. Front-wheel drive comes standard, but you can add all-wheel drive for better traction in bad weather. When properly equipped, it can tow up to 3,500 pounds, or 4,500 pounds if you go with the XRT trim.

Mazda takes a different approach for the all-new 2026 CX-5, sticking with a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter SkyActiv-G four-cylinder that produces 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. It connects to a six-speed automatic, and all-wheel drive comes standard across the lineup with their i-Activ system. Mazda recalibrated this engine for sharper throttle response and quieter cruising, so while it won’t match the Santa Fe’s turbo off the line, it’s smooth and refined for daily driving. A hybrid powertrain using the new SkyActiv-Z engine is confirmed for 2027, giving buyers who want more power and better fuel economy a reason to wait.

Space and Seating

This is where the Hyundai Santa Fe vs. Mazda CX-5 decision gets real, because you’re looking at different size classes. Santa Fe is a mid-size SUV built to haul families with its three-row layout that seats seven. Cargo space measures 14.6 cubic feet behind the third row, which expands to 40.5 cubic feet when you fold the third row down. Drop both rear rows and you get 79.6 cubic feet of maximum cargo room. That’s enough space for road trip luggage, sporting equipment, or a run to the home improvement store.

CX-5 is a compact SUV that seats five passengers in two rows. Mazda completely redesigned it for 2026, stretching the wheelbase by 4.5 inches and adding meaningful space everywhere. Cargo capacity behind the second row comes in at 33.7 cubic feet, and folding the rear seats opens up 66.5 cubic feet. The lower lift-in height makes loading easier too. Rear passengers get noticeably more leg, knee, and headroom than the outgoing model. If you don’t need a third row, this layout actually feels pretty spacious.

Technology and Safety

Both SUVs come packed with tech. Santa Fe uses a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims get dual wireless charging pads and a curved panoramic display that combines the gauge cluster and infotainment screen. Hyundai SmartSense provides Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, and more as standard equipment.

Mazda counters with an available 15.6-inch touchscreen, the biggest they’ve ever offered, featuring Google Built-in with access to Maps, the Play Store, and Gemini AI assistant. A 12.9-inch screen comes standard. CX-5 builds on its legacy as an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ winner with an expanded list of standard driver assistance features, including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Seven-color ambient lighting and premium materials throughout the cabin give it an upscale feel.

Fuel Economy and Pricing

Santa Fe gets 20 mpg city and 29 mpg highway with front-wheel drive and the turbocharged engine. Add all-wheel drive and you’re looking at 20 city and 28 highway. The XRT off-road trim drops to 19 city and 25 highway because of its all-terrain tires and extra ground clearance. Pricing starts at $34,300 MSRP for the base SE trim.

The 2026 CX-5 with its naturally aspirated engine and standard all-wheel drive is EPA-rated at 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, coming in at 26 combined. Those numbers put it ahead of the Santa Fe in everyday efficiency, which makes sense given the smaller size and lighter curb weight. Pricing starts at $29,990 MSRP for the base 2.5 S trim, making it roughly $4,300 less expensive to get into than the Santa Fe.

Side-by-Side Specs at a Glance

Picking the Right SUV for Your Lifestyle

Santa Fe makes sense if you need that third row, extra cargo room, or stronger towing capacity. Families with kids in car seats or anyone who regularly hauls gear will appreciate the flexibility. The turbocharged engine also gives you confidence merging onto highways or passing slower traffic.

CX-5 works better for couples, small families, or anyone who values how a car feels on the road and fuel efficiency over maximum space. Mazda’s reputation for making vehicles that respond to your inputs carries over here, and the refined interior punches above its price point. The lower starting price also keeps more money in your pocket.

See the 2026 Santa Fe at Ray Skillman Hyundai West

Reading specs only tells part of the story. If you’re considering Santa Fe, stop by Ray Skillman Hyundai West in Indianapolis to see it in person. Our sales team can walk you through the different trims, let you compare SE, SEL, XRT, Limited, and Calligraphy models, and help you figure out which features matter most for your situation. Take one for a test drive to feel that turbocharged power and check out the cargo space with your actual stuff. We’ve been part of the Indianapolis community for over 40 years, and our service department keeps your vehicle running smoothly long after you drive off the lot.