2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid vs. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Comparison

Hybrid compact SUVs are like two solutions in one: You get a vehicle that has all the virtues of a 5-passenger hauler, including ample cargo space, a higher seating position, and all-wheel drive (AWD), plus the cost-saving benefits of a fuel-efficient gasoline-electric powertrain. Win-win! Two of the most alluring hybrid compact SUVs are the 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid and the 2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.

These two models are from different brands and have their own personalities, yet you might not know that under the hood they share a powertrain. Yes, the new CX-50 Hybrid is actually powered by the proven powertrain from the tried-and-true RAV4 Hybrid. Here’s how they compare otherwise.

2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid

The Mazda CX-50 Hybrid is the newest version of what is already one of the newest compact SUVs. The Mazda CX-50 debuted only two years ago, as the rugged and outdoorsy sibling to the CX-5. The CX-50 Hybrid only improves upon its gas-only twin with more power, 219 horsepower vs. 187 hp, and better fuel economy — up to 38 mpg combined.

Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Highlights

Standard all-wheel drive: All Mazda SUVs now have all-wheel drive standard, an asset when roads become slick or when venturing off pavement. This matches the RAV4’s similar system.

Athletic manners: Here’s another thing inherent to Mazdas: They are fun to drive. Mazda vehicles — even Mazda SUVs — have an athletic feel, and that extends to this hybrid version of the CX-50. We find it more engaging in the twisties than its Toyota rival.

Head-up display: This helpful feature displays information directly onto the windshield, so you don’t have to take your eyes off the road. It’s in the Premium Plus trim of the CX-50 Hybrid — and not available in the 2025 RAV4 Hybrid.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Mazda CX-50 models for sale near you.

2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

While the CX-50 and its hybrid variant are new, Toyota has been making a RAV4 Hybrid for many years now. After all, this is the brand that helped create the modern compact SUV segment with the original RAV4 in the 1990s, followed soon after by the Prius hybrid.

This is the final year of this generation of RAV4. For the 2026 Toyota RAV4, all models will be hybrid, and a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model will again be offered that can go up to 50 miles on battery power alone. Still, even in its final year of this generation, the 2025 RAV4 Hybrid holds a lot of appeal.

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Highlights

Fuel economy: The RAV4 Hybrid achieves up to 39 mpg combined, which just edges the 38 mpg of the Mazda CX-50 Hybrid.

Digital driver’s display: A slick and configurable 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster is optional in the XSE trim, while standard in the Limited. All CX-50 Hybrid models have a simpler 7-inch LCD instrument display.

Cargo room: The RAV4 Hybrid has ample space for your stuff, and more than the CX-50 Hybrid. The RAV4 Hybrid boasts 37.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 69.8 with them folded. That easily outshines the CX-50 Hybrid’s 29.2/56.3 numbers.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Toyota RAV4 models for sale near you.

Similarities

Both of these hybrid SUVs use the same powertrain and thus have the same power output, nearly the same fuel economy, and standard all-wheel drive.

Pricing

The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors.
The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2025 MAZDA CX-50 Hybrid vehicles and New 2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership.
These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.

Specifications

Conclusion

The Mazda CX-50 Hybrid is the more rugged, adventure-leaning model of these two, yet it still retains the brand’s fun-to-drive character — while achieving great fuel economy. It’s also the fresher of the two. The RAV4 Hybrid, though, even in its final year in this form, outclasses the Mazda in cargo space and edges it in fuel economy, and has a slightly lower starting price. With two rivals of similar size and using the same powertrain, it’s expected that this would be a close match. Consider your budget and needs, take both for a test drive, and see which one seals the deal for you.