Looking to buy a compact SUV and finding it hard to decide between Mazda CX-5 and Toyota RAV4. The CX-5 looks better and I don't mind the non-touch infotainment system, in fact I think the dial is easier to use while driving maybe? I read that the CX-5 engine has better performance and also has more "premium" interiors but the RAV4 is sold vastly more than the former and I am guessing there's a reason for that (I don't know what's that reason, yet) I am leaning towards the CX-5 but would be great to hear from others, especially who drive a RAV4, on what they think about it. Or let me other good options in the comments.. Have already ruled out Honda crv and subaru Forrester though. About me : First job in the US, recent MS grad, on F1 OPT, didn't get picked in this year's H1B, 2 more attempts left so don't want to buy anything pricier than this - Keepin it lean, in case I need to ditch and leave for my home country; that kinda sums up my situation. TC 250K, Age - 27, single, US YoE: 3 months
I bought a cx5 one month ago. Great car with great features for the price. No regrets.
New or Used?
Looking for both but don't want to go past 2019 even with a used one
CX5: better interior quality, way better design, better transmission and engine response. RAV4 only sells more because Toyota’s marketing budget is significantly greater than Mazda’s. Toyota and Mazda are also going in on a joint venture which tells you something about the respect Toyota has for Mazda. Note: if you can get the GT, the feature bump is worth it.
How about RAV4 Prime?
Outside of it being fast in a straight line, it isn’t very impressive. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=3rXTHobmQQo
Resell price will be much higher for Toyotas.
It’s still *very* good for Mazda.
Lease the Mazda CX-5 and enjoy the driving experience. RAV4 is boring unless you get the prime.
Why lease?
YOLO into a GMC Yukon Denali 🥳
I have a Camry hybrid and build quality is crap. Interior rattles and squeaks, partially fixed myself with foam tape.
Is it lemon 🍋? Or poor design tolerances ? Do you see panel gaps as well?
No panel gaps, not lemon. Plastic parts in the interior are not well connected (they hold on plastic clips) so some of them are not as tight and they rattle. Quite common problem, my friend also has a Camry with similar issues.
RAV4 prime or nothing else.
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RAV4 will sell so much better used