Toyota
Toyota Camry (2026)
$29100Cheaper
Released 2026
Best Cars · head-to-head
Toyota Camry (2026) vs Mazda CX-5 (2026)
A sourced, side-by-side comparison. Toyota Camry (2026) is cheaper at $29100. Every spec and price links to its source.
Mazda
Mazda CX-5 (2026)
$29990
Released 2026
Which is better: the Toyota Camry (2026) or Mazda CX-5 (2026)?
On the specs we track, they're closely matched. The Toyota Camry (2026) is the cheaper at $29100.
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Full spec sheet
✓ marks the stronger figure where "more" — or "less", for price and weight — is unambiguously better.
| Spec | Toyota Camry (2026) | Mazda CX-5 (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| US price | $29100 | $29990 |
| Brand | Toyota | Mazda |
| Released | 2026 | 2026 |
| Body style | midsize sedan | compact SUV |
| Mpg combined | 51 | 26 |
| Horsepower | 225 | 187 |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo cuft | 15.1 | — |
| Powertrain | 2.5L inline-4 hybrid (HEV), automatic AV-S6 | 2.5L SKYACTIV-G inline-4 naturally aspirated, 6-speed automatic |
| Release | 2026 | 2026 |
Sources — Toyota Camry (2026): fueleconomy.gov (verified 2026-06-15). Mazda CX-5 (2026): fueleconomy.gov (verified 2026-06-15).
What's the difference between the Toyota Camry (2026) and Mazda CX-5 (2026)?
Where the two actually differ on the specs we track (5 of 7). Matching specs are omitted.
- Body style: Toyota Camry (2026) midsize sedan vs Mazda CX-5 (2026) compact SUV
- Mpg combined: Toyota Camry (2026) 51 vs Mazda CX-5 (2026) 26
- Horsepower: Toyota Camry (2026) 225 vs Mazda CX-5 (2026) 187
- Drivetrain: Toyota Camry (2026) FWD vs Mazda CX-5 (2026) AWD
- Powertrain: Toyota Camry (2026) 2.5L inline-4 hybrid (HEV), automatic AV-S6 vs Mazda CX-5 (2026) 2.5L SKYACTIV-G inline-4 naturally aspirated, 6-speed automatic
What reviewers say
Sourced tester consensus for each — the "what people who used it think" layer, not just specs.
Toyota Camry (2026)
Two whitelisted testers, Car and Driver and MotorTrend, rate the 2026 Camry among the best midsize sedans for its efficient standard-hybrid powertrain, roomy cabin, and easy-to-use tech. Only Car and Driver instrumented-tested it (7.0-sec 0-60 for the Nightshade FWD, 34 mpg observed, 171-ft braking, 0.87 g skidpad). MotorTrend did not publish its own numbers but flags interior build quality with squeaks and rattles. The two split most clearly on steering. (2 sourced reviews, 1 lab-tested.)
Praised: Efficient standard-hybrid powertrain with strong real-world fuel economy; Roomy, comfortable interior with modern, easy-to-use tech; Quick, responsive hybrid acceleration for a midsize sedan.
Flagged: Vague steering that lacks feel; limited driving athleticism; Interior build quality: squeaks and rattles noted in testing; Priced above its staunchest rivals.
Mazda CX-5 (2026)
Two whitelisted outlets reviewed the redesigned 2026 CX-5. Both praise the roomier cabin, upscale materials and retained fun-to-drive handling, while faulting the dropped turbo, modest acceleration and the loss of physical controls. Only Car and Driver ran instrumented numbers (0-60 in 8.0 sec, 173-ft braking, 0.83 g skidpad); MotorTrend's first drive was hands-on but unmeasured. (2 sourced reviews, 1 lab-tested.)
Praised: Retains engaging, fun-to-drive handling and Mazda driving character; Roomier rear seat and larger cargo area after the redesign; Upscale, class-above interior materials.
Flagged: Loss of physical switchgear, especially the volume knob; No turbo option; modest, unremarkable acceleration from carryover 2.5L; Mediocre / mid-pack fuel economy (26 mpg combined).