2025 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2024 Mazda CX-50

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 presented itself as a more rugged alternative to the CX-5, with significant dimensional differences. It was 3.5 centimetres lower, 7.6 cm wider, and nearly 15 cm longer than the CX-5, with an 11.7 cm wheelbase stretch. The design emphasized broad-shouldered proportions with square wheel arches and faux air vents. The Meridian Edition, in particular, enhanced the active-lifestyle image with all-terrain tires, a black hood graphic, and pronounced rocker-panel trim. The interior was well-crafted, featuring a BMW-like infotainment screen and impressive material quality, though it fell short of Mazda's upscale aspirations with standard half-leatherette seats and a manually adjustable passenger seat.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe, available in three trims, maintained its chunky, boxy design from its 2024 debut. It featured a long wheelbase, flat hood, and pixelated H-shaped LED headlamps, aligning with Hyundai's design aesthetic. The rear design, however, suffered from mismatched proportions, with taillights positioned lower than ideal. Each trim offered specific wheel sizes, with the off-road-focused XRT trim adding chrome and black exterior accents. Inside, the Santa Fe provided ample space for seven passengers, with the Ultimate Calligraphy trim offering captain's chairs. The interior fit and finish were generally good, though some squeaks and rattles were noted.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 was equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, with turbocharging available on higher trims. The base engine produced 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, while the turbo variant delivered 256 hp and 320 lb-ft on 93-octane fuel, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on 87-octane. All models featured a six-speed automatic transmission and AWD, with driving modes including Normal, Sport, and Off-road. Turbo models also offered a Towing mode, increasing towing capacity to 1,587 kilograms. The CX-50's driving experience was more aligned with its segment, lacking the sporty dynamics of the CX-5. The Meridian Edition's all-terrain tires added noise and reduced grip, with the roof platform contributing to wind noise at highway speeds.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe came with a standard 2.5-litre turbocharged engine, producing 277 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. AWD was standard across the lineup, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The Santa Fe Hybrid, a separate model, combined a 1.6-litre engine with an electric motor for 231 hp and 271 lb-ft. The Santa Fe offered stable cornering, firm brakes, and responsive steering, though turbo lag and occasional transmission delays were noted. The XRT trim featured 30-inch all-terrain tires and increased ground clearance, enhancing off-road capability with improved approach, departure, and breakover angles.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 offered similar passenger space to the CX-5, with slightly less headroom but more legroom in both rows. It provided 889 litres of cargo space with rear seats up and 1,595 litres with them folded, trailing competitors in cargo capacity. The power liftgate eased cargo access, but the area wasn't ideal for bulky items. The interior layout was sensible, with a substantial shifter and rotary infotainment controller on the centre console.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe excelled in interior space, offering the most third-row legroom in its class. The second-row seats featured adjustable cushion angles, and both rear rows could be folded via a button in the cargo area. With the third row folded, cargo space expanded to 1,148 litres, and with the second row down, it reached 2,267 litres. The rear opening was widened to 127.5 cm, facilitating easier loading of large items. Most trims could tow 1,587 kilograms, with the XRT trim capable of 2,040 kilograms.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 featured a 10.25-inch infotainment screen controlled by a rotary controller and buttons, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard. Higher trims added wireless charging, SiriusXM, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The interface required adjustment but offered physical feedback, making it easier to use without distraction. The system's graphics were plain, but it suited buyers seeking simplicity.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe boasted a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital gauge cluster, with navigation available on higher trims. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with clear graphics and quick responses. Standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were complemented by multiple USB-C ports and wireless charging. The digital key feature allowed phone or watch access, and the Ultimate Calligraphy trim offered a digital rearview mirror and head-up display. Bluelink app connectivity and over-the-air updates were standard.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. However, it received a "Basic" score for nighttime pedestrian detection and "Average" for standard headlights. NHTSA ratings were incomplete, but it achieved five stars in frontal crash tests and four stars in rollover tests. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control, with optional features like a 360-degree camera system.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and forward collision avoidance. Highway Drive Assist, available on higher trims, combined adaptive cruise control and lane following assist. The top trims featured blind spot avoidance and a Blind View Monitor. The NHTSA awarded the Santa Fe a four-star overall safety rating, while the IIHS rated it "Good" in most areas, with "Acceptable" scores for headlights and LATCH.