VERDICT
While the combined sales for the Hyundai Tucson and Mazda CX-5 is still much less than the best-selling CR-V or RAV4, these are both excellent products that deserve consideration when shopping for a small SUV.
The new Hyundai Tucson is a surprisingly well-balanced product that also features an excellent, if unconventional powertrain. A slightly underwhelming interior and a few questionable decisions regarding features take away from an otherwise outstanding small crossover. The Mazda CX-5 continues to be the driver’s choice, although the trade-off in ride quality is substantial enough to make us wonder whether the handling benefits are worth it. The interior remains first class, but an aging powertrain will likely lead some shoppers to consider other options.
For the money, I would go with the Tucson and its exceptionally well-balanced ride and excellent powertrain, although I wouldn’t fault anyone for picking up a CX-5, especially if they fear buying an SUV will take the fun out of driving.
| Ratings Overview | Mazda CX-5 | Hyundai Tucson |
| Style | 4/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Performance | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Utility | 4/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Compared to the competition | 3.5/5 | 4/5 |
| Fuel economy | 4/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Value | 4/5 | 4/5 |
Summary |
4/5 | 4.5/5 |
