2025 Hyundai Santa Fe HEV vs. 2023 Mazda CX-9 Review

Picture of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe HEV

2025 Hyundai
Santa Fe HEV

MSRP*: $37,200 to $49,050
See details & photos

Find Your Best Price Today!

Picture of the 2023 Mazda CX-9

2023 Mazda
CX-9

MSRP*: $38,750 to $48,460
See details & photos

Find Your Best Price Today!

MPG - City 35 - 36 MPG 20 MPG
MPG - Hwy 34 - 35 MPG Info not available
Seating Capacity 6 - 7 seats 6 seats
Cargo Space 79.6 ft3 71.2 ft3
Engine
  • 231-hp, 1.6-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gas/Electric Hybrid)
  • 227-hp, 2.5-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
Transmission Automatic Automatic
Drivetrain All Wheel Drive, Front Wheel Drive All Wheel Drive
Horsepower 231 hp 227 hp
Towing Capacity 2,000 lbs 3,500 lbs
Exterior Length 190.2 in 199.4 in
Exterior Width 74.8 in 77.5 in
Leg Room Front 44.4 in
Rear 41.5 in
Front 41.0 in
Rear 39.4 in
Head Room Front 40.2 - 41.1 in
Rear 39.6 - 40.6 in
Front 40.1 in
Rear 38.5 in

*MSRP and Invoice prices displayed are for educational purposes only, do not reflect the actual selling price of a particular vehicle, and do not include applicable gas taxes or destination charges.

Comparison Review

Comfort
Rear passengers will be able to stretch out a lot more in the Hyundai Santa Fe HEV than in the Mazda CX-9. The Hyundai Santa Fe HEV will be popular with taller drivers and passengers in the front seat, due to its greater front head- and legroom than the Mazda CX-9.

Convenience
The Hyundai Santa Fe HEV requires fewer stops at the gas station than the Mazda CX-9, making it more convenient to drive.

Cost
There are a lot of factors to consider when calculating the overall cost of a vehicle. The main consideration is Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). Whether you pick the Hyundai Santa Fe HEV or the Mazda CX-9, it's going to cost you about the same.

Dimensions
Since the Hyundai Santa Fe HEV is much slimmer than the Mazda CX-9, it'll be much easier to find a wide enough space in a crowded parking lot. The Hyundai Santa Fe HEV is slightly shorter than the Mazda CX-9, which may make it easier to park.

Handling
The Hyundai Santa Fe HEV has a smaller turning radius than the Mazda CX-9, allowing you to more easily maneuver in and out of tight spots.

Performance
In terms of towing capacity, the Mazda CX-9 is clearly the choice over the Hyundai Santa Fe HEV for pulling heavy loads. In terms of horsepower, it's a virtual tie between the Hyundai Santa Fe HEV and the Mazda CX-9.

Powertrain
The Hyundai Santa Fe HEV has much lower torque than the Mazda CX-9, which generally means that it won't feel as fast or powerful.

Utility
The Hyundai Santa Fe HEV offers greater seating capacity than the Mazda CX-9, making it a better choice for those who find themselves chauffeuring others around. The Hyundai Santa Fe HEV has a roomier cargo area for putting your bags or other items than the Mazda CX-9.