Mazda CX-5 vs Hyundai Tucson

What's the difference?

What does the Mazda CX-5 have in common with the VW Golf, Lotus Elise and Porsche Cayenne?

They all saved their respective carmakers from going under.
Keeping rivals like the Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson and Volkswagen Tiguan on their toes since launching in 2012, the Japanese medium-sized SUV has wooed buyers with its styling, quality, driveability, ease and brand reputation ever since.

Now, after 14 years, five million-plus examples of essentially the same vehicle, a third-generation CX-5 has launched, and we have questions.

Like, what’s actually changed? Are the changes enough? How does it drive? And where’s the hybrid?

Keep reading for answers and more.

For the first time in Australia, the mid-sized Hyundai Tucson is being offered with a hybrid powertrain – which combines its spritely turbo-powered engine with a fuel efficiency-improving electric motor. And it might be enough to swing you to becoming a hybrid fan.

The new powertrain makes the Tucson a proper competitor against Australia’s darling, the Toyota RAV4 but the Nissan X-Trail e-Power and Kia Sportage remain strong rivals.

This week I’m family-testing the mid-spec Elite Hybrid with the N Line option pack to see how the newly updated Tucson handles family life.