Mazda CX-5 vs. Toyota RAV4: Complete comparison 2026

The Mazda CX-5 is a popular compact SUV that has long been winning the hearts of drivers with its dynamic driving characteristics, premium interior, and elegant sporty design. Standing against it is the Toyota RAV4, a global bestseller and an absolute pioneer of this class (sold in some markets also as the Toyota Wildlander or, as part of a collaboration, as the sister model Suzuki Across), which relies primarily on its legendary reliability, generous interior space, and exceptionally efficient hybrid powertrains. Let's take a detailed look at which of these two extremely popular Japanese family cars offers a better price-performance ratio on the used car market and will better suit your daily needs.

When choosing a used mid-size SUV, roughly four years old, the Mazda CX-5 (KF generation) and Toyota RAV4 (XA5 generation) models represent two exceptionally attractive choices with very similar physical proportions. Looking closely at the exterior dimensions, it is the Toyota RAV4 that takes up slightly more space on the road. It measures exactly 4600 mm in length, surpassing the Mazda CX-5 by 25 to 50 mm depending on the specific bumper version. The RAV4 is also 10 to 15 mm wider and an imperceptible 5 mm taller. In practice, these slightly larger dimensions mean that the Toyota offers a visually more robust impression, while the Mazda, with its shorter and narrower body, provides slightly better maneuverability when parking in tight urban spaces.

An interesting contrast is provided by the comparison of the wheelbase, which is crucial for both interior space and driving characteristics. Although the Mazda CX-5 is shorter overall, it boasts a wheelbase of 2700 mm, which is 10 mm more than the Toyota RAV4 (2690 mm). This means that Mazda's engineers pushed the wheels further to the corners of the body. The result is shorter overhangs, which give the car a more dynamic silhouette and primarily benefit driving stability and interior space for the crew. In contrast, Toyota works with longer overhangs, which slightly limits knee room in the cabin relative to its overall length, but provides a more voluminous rear for carrying cargo. This technical difference shows that for a driver who prefers sportier handling and a sense of more space for the crew, the Mazda will be the better choice, while the Toyota will satisfy those looking for generous cargo space.

Generally speaking, both Japanese SUVs fit European standards and can easily fit into standard parking spaces or underground garages. The differences in dimensions are evolutionary rather than revolutionary, yet they can play a role in daily life. While the Mazda CX-5, with its more compact body dimensions and long wheelbase, appeals to more active drivers spending a lot of time in the city, the slightly bulkier dimensions of the Toyota RAV4 will be appreciated primarily by those looking for a family car with the distinct character of a classic off-roader.

When choosing a family SUV, the luggage compartment volume often plays a decisive role, as it determines how easily you can handle daily logistics and packing for vacations. For those interested in roughly four-year-old cars on the used car market, a fairly clear difference in approach between the two Japanese automakers emerges. While one model bets on absolute maximization of interior space and everyday family practicality, the other offers more average values, which it balances with a more attractive exterior design and a dynamic body profile.

If we look at the specific numbers for the popular generations from around 2022 (Mazda CX-5 generation KF and Toyota RAV4 generation XA5), the winner in total volume is clearly Toyota. The standard internal combustion version of the RAV4 and its popular full-hybrid variant both offer an excellent 580 liters of base volume, which can be expanded to a generous 1690 liters by folding the rear seats. The Mazda CX-5 in a comparable generation provides a base trunk volume of 494 to 522 liters (depending on the specific engine and equipment), reaching a maximum of 1608 to 1638 liters after folding the seats. However, it is important to mention the pitfalls of electrification: if you opt for the plug-in hybrid version of the Toyota RAV4, its base trunk shrinks to 520 liters (maximum 1604 liters) due to the more space-demanding battery. In this specific case, both cars are practically equal in their transport capabilities.

In practice, these volume differences mean that the standard Toyota RAV4 easily provides space for a few extra suitcases or significantly easier loading of a bulky stroller without the need for complex disassembly. Its trunk is perfect for longer vacations, where families will appreciate every extra liter. The capacity of the Mazda CX-5 is perfectly sufficient for weekend shopping and standard travel for a smaller family; however, when packing for a two-week trip or a ski trip to the mountains, you might need to reach for a roof box. The higher liter capacity and overall boxier shape of the trunk simply make the Toyota RAV4 the objectively more pragmatic choice.

When choosing a family SUV, the trailer weight often plays a decisive role. Although both vehicles, the Mazda CX-5 and Toyota RAV4, are considered practical companions, there are vast differences in their towing capacity. If you are considering towing a family caravan or a boat trailer, this parameter will almost certainly decide the winner.

When focusing on cars approximately four years old (KF generation for Mazda and XA5 for Toyota), we find that the Mazda CX-5 is significantly better built for towing trailers. Its values are high and consistent across the range:

• Basic petrol engines (SKYACTIV-G 2.0) can safely tow a braked trailer weighing 1800 to 2000 kg.
• More powerful petrol units (SKYACTIV-G 2.5) and highly sought-after diesel versions (SKYACTIV-D 2.2) handle a maximum of 2000 to 2100 kg.

On the other hand, the Toyota RAV4 (XA5 generation) requires a much more careful choice of engine, as the fuel-efficient hybrid system takes its toll on towing capacity:

• The traditional pure petrol version (2.0) can tow a solid 2000 kg.
• However, for the by far most common hybrid variants (2.5 Hybrid), the maximum load drops dramatically. The front-wheel-drive version is allowed to tow a maximum of 800 kg, while the all-wheel-drive variant (AWD-i) can handle 1650 kg.
• The Plug-in Hybrid model offers a compromise maximum of 1500 kg.

In practice, this represents a huge difference. The limited 800 kg capacity of the front-wheel-drive Toyota is more or less sufficient only for a small unbraked trailer for garden waste or weekend shopping at a DIY store. In contrast, the more than two-ton limit of the Mazda CX-5 easily provides space for a heavy multi-berth caravan even for a longer family holiday.

Conclusion: If a tow bar is your daily bread and you plan to transport heavier loads, the Mazda CX-5 is clearly the more flexible and reliable choice. The Toyota RAV4 only makes sense for towing in the all-wheel-drive version, but generally excels more in low city fuel consumption than in the role of a workhorse.

The approach of both carmakers to their engine lineups couldn't be more different, making this comparison a fascinating battle between two distinct engineering philosophies. While Mazda, with its CX-5, persistently (and very appealingly for many drivers) rejects the trend of extreme downsizing and relies on proper naturally aspirated petrol engines with large displacements or traditional powerful diesels, the Toyota RAV4 is the absolute synonym for electrification and top-tier hybrid efficiency. For those interested in a roughly four-year-old used SUV (i.e., vehicles manufactured around 2022), this means a fundamental decision. The Mazda CX-5 offers power outputs ranging from 110 to 143 kW and will appeal to purists or highway travelers longing for diesel pull or the linear operation of a petrol four-cylinder paired with a classic torque converter automatic. In contrast, the Toyota RAV4 clearly dominates with its smoothness and unbeatable efficiency in suburban traffic thanks to the help of electric motors, while also being able to offer an extraordinary system output of up to 225 kW in the top-of-the-line plug-in hybrid version.

Mazda CX-5: Atmospheric Classics and a Great Diesel

From a used market perspective, with a roughly four-year-old Mazda CX-5 (KF generation), you will encounter a traditional approach to internal combustion engines, which the automaker enriched at the turn of 2022 and 2023 with an unobtrusive mild-hybrid system (labeled as e-SKYACTIV-G) to reduce emissions and refine the start-stop function. The base engine is a proper naturally aspirated two-liter 2.0 SKYACTIV-G (121 kW), which will suit calmer drivers as its torque peaks at higher RPMs. A more powerful and confident choice is the large-displacement four-cylinder 2.5 SKYACTIV-G (143 kW), which is very often paired with a smooth and comfortably shifting six-speed torque converter automatic and AWD. A major competitive advantage for Mazda over Toyota is the retention of the diesel unit. The twin-turbocharged 2.2 SKYACTIV-D diesel engine (available with 110 kW or 135 kW) is exceptionally well-insulated, offers massive pull, and represents the clear choice for drivers who regularly cover long highway distances.

Toyota RAV4: Pioneer of Sophisticated Hybrids

The fifth-generation Toyota RAV4 (XA5 generation, which dominated the new car market around 2022) is represented among used cars almost exclusively with hybrid powertrains. Although a purely petrol version, the 2.0 VVT-iE with 129 kW, was available in the early years of this generation (around 2019–2020), you will only rarely come across it in listings for four-year-old cars, as it gradually disappeared from most markets due to strict emissions regulations. The alpha and omega is thus the 2.5 Hybrid system with an engine operating in the efficient Atkinson cycle. In the front-wheel-drive version, it offers a combined system output of 160 kW, while the all-wheel-drive version (labeled as AWD-i with an extra electric motor on the rear axle) has 163 kW. For maximum performance-oriented drivers, Toyota has an absolute ace up its sleeve: the 2.5 Plug-in Hybrid version. This provides a massive combined output of 225 kW (306 hp), giving this spacious family SUV acceleration on par with hot hatches and the possibility of a pure electric range of up to 75 km. All hybrid variants use a reliable e-CVT planetary gearbox.

Choosing the right powertrain is absolutely crucial for long-term satisfaction, reliability, and sustainable operating costs. Both automakers approach engines quite differently – while Mazda, with the monitored KF generation (typically around four years old on the used car market), bets on honest naturally aspirated four-cylinders with larger displacements, Toyota, with its XA5 generation, focuses fully and with great success on its sophisticated full hybrid system. A look at the history of available engines shows interesting trends: the pure petrol two-liter (2.0) in the Toyota RAV4 disappeared from the market as early as mid-2020, and today you will encounter practically only hybrids. Mazda, on the other hand, resisted for a long time and offered pure internal combustion SKYACTIV-G versions, but from the end of 2022, it replaced them with e-SKYACTIV-G mild-hybrid variants, while the SKYACTIV-D diesel versions finally fell silent at the end of 2024.

Níže uvádíme rychlé srovnání námi doporučených motorizací pro obě vozidla z hlediska dostupnosti na trhu 4letých ojetin:

For the Mazda CX-5, we recommend: 2.5 SKYACTIV-G 194 (or e-SKYACTIV-G, 143 kW)

This large-displacement naturally aspirated four-cylinder is a complete rarity in today's world full of small turbocharged engines and represents by far the best choice in the range of used CX-5 KF generation models. It provides an excellent balance between refinement, sufficient power reserve for a heavier SUV, and absolutely exemplary mechanical reliability. The absence of a turbocharger means far fewer potential service risks in the future. Power comes on smoothly with a very pleasant and linear torque curve, while real consumption for the AWD version stays around a very respectable 7.5 to 8.5 liters per 100 km. Furthermore, the classic six-speed torque converter automatic transmission shifts imperceptibly and does not suffer from the expensive faults that often plague complex dual-clutch gearboxes. The engine is generally "bulletproof," but as a precaution against carbon buildup on the intake valves (a trade-off for direct injection), we recommend using fuel with additives and occasionally warming up the engine and holding it at higher RPMs. Change the oil strictly every 10 to a maximum of 15 thousand kilometers. It is an ideal powertrain for families, highway travelers, and drivers with a more dynamic style who want a car without hidden traps. We strongly recommend avoiding the 2.2 SKYACTIV-D diesel versions in used cars – although they were sold until 2024, with frequent short city trips, there is a real risk of oil dilution with diesel and expensive problems with a prematurely clogged diesel particulate filter (DPF).

For the Toyota RAV4, we recommend: 2.5 Hybrid AWD-i (163 kW / 222 hp)

The hybrid powertrain with a 2.5-liter petrol engine operating on the Atkinson cycle is, without exaggeration, the main argument for buying the RAV4 XA5 generation. It is a generationally refined and currently the best-tuned hybrid on the market. The AWD-i version adds a second independent electric motor to the rear axle, bringing the combined power to 222 hp. In practice, this means lightning-fast throttle response and absolutely fascinating fuel consumption – even with such a large SUV, you can effortlessly drive in the city and suburban areas for 5.5 to 6.5 liters per 100 km. But its strongest point is durability. The patented e-CVT transmission uses no friction clutches, and the car has no conventional starter, mechanical alternator, or V-belts. Service requirements are thus reduced to an absolute minimum. When choosing a roughly 4-year-old used car, pay close attention to whether the car has a documented regular service history in the authorized network, as this is the only way to extend the traction battery warranty for free. As a preventive measure, have the condition of the high-voltage cable to the rear electric motor checked on a lifted vehicle; on early XA5 models, it occasionally suffered from corrosion due to aggressive road salt in winter. This hybrid model is the perfect choice for rationally thinking families, people commuting daily to the city, and calmer drivers who appreciate silence, smoothness, and minimal bills at gas stations and service centers.

When choosing a roughly four-year-old used family SUV, fuel consumption is often one of the key arguments. As is often the case in the automotive world, official laboratory values provided by manufacturers can differ significantly from everyday reality on the road. To get a more accurate picture of how much the Mazda CX-5 (KF generation) and Toyota RAV4 (XA5 generation) actually consume on the road, we looked at user data from the independent portal Spritmonitor.de, where thousands of ordinary drivers enter their refueling records.

Data source:

Looking at the real-world data, the completely different technological approaches of the two Japanese carmakers are clearly visible. With the KF generation, Mazda still stuck to honest naturally aspirated petrol engines and large-displacement diesels. While the SKYACTIV-G petrol four-cylinders are mechanically very durable and reliable, they cannot cheat the physics and aerodynamics of an SUV – consumption here typically hovers slightly above the 7-liter mark. Even the 2.2 SKYACTIV-D diesel engine, with an average of 6,5 l/100 km, is not an outright record-breaker in today's competition. On the other hand, an interesting and perhaps surprising finding for many is the fact that the large 2.5-liter engine in the Toyota RAV4 is by far the most economical. Thanks to sophisticated hybrid assistance, it can reduce consumption to an impressive 5,7 l/100 km. The Plug-in Hybrid variant shows extremely low values (around 2,5 l/100 km), but here the overall result depends entirely on how consistently the owner recharges the battery from the grid.

For the average user, clear recommendations emerge from these figures. If you are looking for a spacious car primarily for the city and suburban commuting (where you spend most of your time in traffic jams or slow-moving traffic), the hybrid Toyota RAV4 will be the clear winner. This is precisely where it can effectively recuperate energy and often move purely on electricity. The aforementioned plug-in version (PHEV) is then exclusively worthwhile for those who have a home wallbox or can charge at work. Conversely, the Mazda CX-5 will much better suit more traditionally-minded drivers who spend a substantial part of their mileage on motorways or open country roads. Naturally aspirated engines work with high efficiency and stable consumption here, rewarding the driver with linear power delivery regardless of whether there is any "juice" in the battery.

In conclusion, fuel consumption is a pivotal decision-making factor in this specific duel, sharply dividing the two vehicles. While the Mazda CX-5 bets on a traditional driving experience at the cost of slightly higher fuel demands, the Toyota RAV4 absolutely dominates in terms of operating costs with its sophisticated hybrids. From the perspective of overall economy, the Toyota is thus the clear choice for most families.

Both Japanese SUVs are staples in the used car market, with values depreciating significantly slower than many European competitors. However, when looking for a roughly four-year-old model (2021–2022 vintages), you will encounter quite fundamental differences in exactly what you are paying for and the powertrain technology you get.

Toyota RAV4 (XA50 Generation)

The fifth-generation Toyota RAV4 (produced since 2019) holds its value in an exemplary fashion. A major reason is the immense popularity of its hybrid powertrain, which is considered bulletproof on the used car market and represents a safe bet for many families.

• Common price range: For a four-year-old Toyota RAV4 in good condition, you will most often pay roughly €25,000 to €35,000.
• What determines the price: The vast majority of the used market consists of reliable self-charging hybrids (2.5 HEV). Models equipped with intelligent all-wheel drive (AWD-i) logically stay in the upper half of the price spectrum and disappear from dealerships the fastest. If you have your eye on the powerful plug-in hybrid version (PHEV) with the option of charging from a socket, expect a price tag approaching the €41,000 mark.

Mazda CX-5 (KF Generation)

The second-generation Mazda CX-5 (produced since 2017 and regularly updated) represents a slightly more affordable path to a premium-feeling SUV with excellent driving characteristics. Unlike the Toyota, a driver's classic reigns here without massive electrification.

• Common price range: You can most often find 2021 and 2022 models on the market in a more favorable range of €23,000 to €31,000.
• What determines the price: The chosen engine plays a key role. Basic but still reliable 2.0-liter units (2.0 SKYACTIV-G) are found around the lower limit. However, the most sought-after and naturally most expensive are the more powerful naturally aspirated 2.5 SKYACTIV-G petrol engines paired with a classic automatic transmission and 4x4 drive. Diesel variants (SKYACTIV-D) may be cheaper in advertisements, but the market tends to overlook these versions due to concerns about their long-term service costs.

Market Comparison

From the perspective of a buyer of a four-year-old used car, both models offer an excellent choice, but with a different philosophy. Mazda appeals to drivers looking for traditional technology, a more refined interior design, and a slightly lower initial investment. Toyota, on the other hand, scores as a tireless saver whose electrified powertrain keeps consumption to a minimum and guarantees an exceptionally easy future resale without significant financial loss.

Both compared models, the Mazda CX-5 and the Toyota RAV4, boast a maximum five-star safety rating from the independent organization Euro NCAP. For buyers of roughly four-year-old used cars, however, it is absolutely crucial to perceive these results in the context of when the tests were conducted. Euro NCAP's methodology and protocols are constantly evolving and becoming more stringent. While the greatest emphasis was previously placed on the structural resistance of the body during the impact itself, newer tests uncompromisingly require advanced active assistance systems (such as cyclist detection or the behavior of pre-collision assistants at intersections). Percentage results from different years of testing therefore cannot be directly compared.

Mazda CX-5: Old-school passive strength

The generation of the Mazda CX-5 that is a typical representative on the used car market today underwent Euro NCAP crash tests in 2017. The car demonstrated extraordinary structural strength and top-tier protection for adult occupants, for which it received an excellent 95%. However, the certification took place according to older, less demanding protocols. Lower scores for safety assistants (59%) and the protection of vulnerable road users (78%) reflect the absence of systems that were not yet so strictly required by the organization in 2017. The Mazda CX-5 thus offers excellent passive safety, but lags slightly behind modern standards in the area of active accident prevention.

Toyota RAV4: Emphasis on modern assistants

The fifth generation of the Toyota RAV4 underwent testing in 2019, when significantly stricter safety standards focused on assistance systems and pedestrian protection were already in place. The results are very strong in all measured aspects: 93% for adult protection and 87% for child protection. A fundamental shift is evident in the rating of assistance systems (77%) and the protection of vulnerable road users (85%). The standard Toyota Safety Sense package confidently handled pedestrian detection at night and cyclist detection during the day in demanding tests, thanks to which the Toyota RAV4 much better meets current expectations for the safety of a family SUV.

From the perspective of current safety requirements, the Toyota RAV4 offers overall more comprehensive and modern protection. Although the Mazda CX-5 remains a structurally very safe car during an actual impact, the Toyota, thanks to its more recent testing date and more advanced arsenal of active safety features, helps to actively and more effectively prevent critical situations.

In addition to standard equipment, each of these models offers more than just basic functions and approaches added value from a completely different perspective, which can ultimately be the deciding factor when choosing the ideal SUV.

Mazda CX-5: Emphasis on the Driver and Premium Craftsmanship

• Infotainment and Ergonomics: Mazda strictly adheres to a philosophy of minimizing distractions while driving. Therefore, you don't primarily control the multimedia system display by touch, but via the exceptionally intuitive HMI Commander rotary controller on the center console. Another great feature is the full-fledged head-up display, which projects important information directly onto the windshield, rather than just onto a cheap pop-up plastic screen.
• Chassis and Stabilization: The unique G-Vectoring Control Plus system constantly and subtly adjusts engine torque depending on steering wheel movements. This helps stabilize the vehicle when cornering and significantly reduces passenger fatigue on longer journeys due to a reduced need for minor steering corrections.
• Materials and Design Purism: The interiors of Mazda CX-5 models from around four years ago (especially in higher trim levels) strongly compete with premium brands in terms of materials. You'll find precise stitching, soft Nappa leather, real wood details, or an elegant frameless rearview mirror. A distinctive hallmark is also the specific multi-layer body paints, led by the iconic Soul Red Crystal.
• Engines and Transmission: While the market has been dominated by downsized turbocharged three-cylinder engines and CVT transmissions, Mazda attracts buyers with time-tested, large-displacement naturally aspirated four-cylinder engines (the SKYACTIV-G engine family) and relies on a classic torque-converter automatic, which guarantees smooth take-offs and high reliability.

Toyota RAV4: Hybrid Dominance and Family Versatility

• Powertrain (Hybrid): A fundamental advantage of the Toyota RAV4 is the fourth and fifth generation of its renowned hybrid system. The combination of a robust naturally aspirated engine and powerful electric motors ensures surprisingly low fuel consumption for such a massive SUV, especially in urban and suburban traffic. Furthermore, the model is available with AWD-i intelligent all-wheel drive, where the rear axle is driven exclusively by a dedicated electric motor without the need for a mechanical driveshaft connection.
• Practicality and Smart Storage Spaces: The RAV4 is designed primarily with families in mind. Rubberized rotary climate control knobs make operation easy even with gloves on, and storage compartments often have a non-slip surface. Selected hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions even offer a full 220V/230V power outlet in the luggage compartment, which is ideal for powering laptops or camping equipment.
• Advanced Electronics and Safety: Even with four-year-old used cars, you can rely on the standard presence of the advanced Toyota Safety Sense package. This bundles adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, or a traffic sign recognition system across all trim levels.
• Smart Digital Mirror and Trail Mode: A common problem with large SUVs is limited rear visibility when the trunk is loaded to the roof. Therefore, in higher trim levels, the RAV4 offers a smart digital interior mirror that, at the touch of a button, begins transmitting a wide-angle image from a camera located on the tailgate. For driving off-road, a Trail mode is available, which actively simulates a differential lock and helps the car extricate itself from mud or snow.

Mazda CX-5 is an ideal choice for drivers who expect more fun driving characteristics and a sense of luxury on board from an SUV. It perfectly suits those who prefer classic, reliable naturally aspirated engines over complex hybrid systems and don't mind sacrificing a bit of interior space for the sake of design and driving experience.

Toyota RAV4 represents a pragmatic and exceptionally sensible choice for families looking for a maximally reliable, spacious, and fuel-efficient car for every day. Its hybrid system excels particularly in urban and suburban traffic, where it can drive fuel bills down to a minimum, making it perfect for drivers who prefer operating economy over sporty dynamics.

Based on long-term user experience, service bulletins, and results from our CarAudit inspection, which ensures a thorough independent technical inspection of the car is carried out before purchase, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems that buyers of roughly four-year-old used cars should watch out for.

Mazda CX-5

The second-generation Mazda CX-5 (KF) is considered mechanically very reliable, yet it has several specific weaknesses to focus on when choosing a used car.

• Body and exterior: One of the most common complaints from owners is the thinner and more susceptible paint layer, which makes the front of the car prone to stone chips. A frequent and relatively well-known defect is also the failure of the electric folding motors for the side mirrors, which get stuck and require replacement of the internal mechanism.
• Engines: Naturally aspirated SKYACTIV-G petrol units are highly reliable, but the 2.5 SKYACTIV-G engine with cylinder deactivation had issues with valve lifters in older model years (addressed by a recall). With the 2.2 SKYACTIV-D diesel engines, there is a risk of engine oil dilution with diesel due to incomplete DPF regenerations during frequent short trips.
• Electronics and interior: The MZD Connect infotainment system in older versions can suffer from the so-called "ghost touch" effect (spontaneous activation of functions on the touchscreen) or display delamination. A software update usually helps; in worse cases, the display must be replaced.

Toyota RAV4

The fifth-generation Toyota RAV4 (XA50) is renowned for its longevity and trouble-free hybrid drive, but even it has known ailments associated mainly with the first years of production.

• Powertrain and chassis: On hybrid versions with all-wheel drive (AWD-i) from 2019–2021, a problem called "Cablegate" often appears. This involves corrosion of the high-voltage cable at the connection point to the rear electric motor due to poor protection against water and salt. Out-of-warranty repairs can be very expensive. Toyota modified the connector design on newer models.
• Fuel system: On some hybrid versions, owners complained about a faulty fuel tank shape, which made it impossible to refuel to the full declared capacity (the problem usually cut off refueling 10 to 15 liters early).
• Body and comfort: Common complaints include significantly higher aerodynamic noise entering the cabin at highway speeds. In the first model years, there were also cases of leaks into the interior due to poorly sealing roof rail mounts.
• Infotainment: The multimedia system in pre-facelift models is very often criticized for its slow response, outdated graphics, and lack of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is key. Here are some specific points to focus on for these two models, while a comprehensive car inspection will help you gain complete confidence in the technical condition before making a final decision.

When choosing a Mazda CX-5:

• Increased oil level (2.2 SKYACTIV-D engines): If you are considering a diesel engine, check the oil dipstick carefully. City driving leads to incomplete diesel particulate filter (DPF) regenerations, which causes diesel to leak into the oil and dangerously dilute it. During the test drive, observe whether the engine pulls smoothly and without jerking at low RPMs.
• Automatic transmission behavior: The traditional six-speed automatic with a torque converter should shift perfectly smoothly whether cold or hot. Try a sharp acceleration (kickdown) while driving. Any hesitation, delays, or jerking may mean the previous owner neglected regular transmission fluid changes.
• Front axle noise: During the test drive, focus on driving over potholes and sharp cornering. Knocking from the front wheels often indicates worn upper shock absorber mounts or play in the lower control arm bushings. A detailed physical inspection of the used car on a lift will clearly confirm these issues.
• Infotainment issues and "Ghost Touch": Older MZD Connect systems occasionally have issues where the touchscreen acts as if someone is clicking on it, even when you aren't touching it. Leave the system running throughout the drive and watch for spontaneous menu jumping or freezing.
• Mirror folding mechanism: The plastic gears in the power-folding mirror mechanism on the CX-5 are prone to cracking. Lock and unlock the car several times during the inspection – if the mirrors don't move smoothly or make a loud clicking sound, the mechanism will need repair.

When choosing a Toyota RAV4:

• High-voltage cable corrosion on AWD ("Cablegate"): This is an absolutely critical point for hybrid all-wheel-drive models (AWD-i). The orange high-voltage cable leading to the rear electric motor is prone to severe corrosion at the connector due to salt and moisture. A professional independent technical inspection on a lift should always include a detailed review of this connection.
• 12V battery drain and software issues: Models from 2019 and 2020 experienced problems with the standard starter battery draining quickly, often caused by a DCM module (connectivity and emergency calls) that failed to enter sleep mode. Ask if the car has had a software update, or check if the car reports low voltage upon starting.
• Traction battery health and range estimation: Whether you are buying a standard full-hybrid (HEV) or a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), have a diagnostic test of the traction battery performed. For the PHEV version, test the fully electric mode – the car should accelerate without jerking, and the estimated pure electric range on the display should be around 60-70 kilometres when fully charged.
• e-CVT planetary gearbox behavior: Under hard acceleration, the specific, monotonous sound of the engine revving high is completely normal for a Toyota. However, focus on the gearbox itself during constant highway driving (around 120 km/h) – if you hear a metallic whistling or humming, it could be a worn bearing, which is a fault requiring a more expensive solution.
• Multimedia system responsiveness and stability: The Toyota Touch 2 infotainment system (before the arrival of the more modern Smart Connect) can be very slow from the factory. Try pairing your phone via cable for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto and stress the system for a while with navigation and music simultaneously. Occasional restarts and connection drops are, unfortunately, a sign of an older hardware version of the unit.

Sources: ADAC, mdcr.cz, garaz.cz, emobility.cz, autojournal.cz, autosystem.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.