Reliability of Mazda CX-5 and Toyota RAV4: Which Crossover Will Prove More Durable?
The CX-5 has frequently outperformed the RAV4 in JD Power ratings, but the new version of Mazda has not yet been evaluated. The 2026 RAV4 has already received its rating despite several recalls.
A comparison of the reliability of the Mazda CX-5 and Toyota RAV4 shows Mazda's advantage in historical JD Power ratings. The new generation of the CX-5 currently lacks sufficient data for a rating, whereas the 2026 RAV4 has already received a score of 85 points for overall quality and 81 for reliability.
At the brand level, Toyota outperformed Mazda in the 2026 JD Power studies. However, when comparing these two models, the CX-5 has almost always scored higher in previous years. Nevertheless, the new Mazda has seen complaints regarding the infotainment system software: the 'Telematics Error' message, touchscreen freezing, and the SOS button activating on its own. Updates have improved the situation, but issues with the infotainment system and connectivity persist.
The last recall for the Mazda CX-5 was for the 2019 model year. This does not mean that vehicles produced afterward are entirely free of defects. The manufacturer has retained the main engines, transmissions, and platform, gradually addressing issues. However, the CX-5 has recorded more technical service bulletins for dealers—75 compared to 32 for the 2026 RAV4.
The Toyota RAV4 has had recall campaigns due to software errors. In some vehicles, the rearview camera may not display an image, the instrument panel may fail to show readings after startup, and the hybrid system software may cause the system to shut down while driving, resulting in a loss of power. The latter issue affects 30,978 hybrid RAV4s.
Owners of both models have also complained about glass damage. For the RAV4, issues described include a 12 V battery drain, limitations in hybrid system power, and a delayed accelerator pedal response. However, the source does not classify the faults of either model as systemic.
