Mazda CX-50 vs Hyundai Tucson

Verdict: Mazda CX-50 vs Hyundai Tucson

The Hyundai Tucson boasts a higher reliability score of 83/100 compared to the Mazda CX-50's 66/100, indicating a more dependable performance. While the Tucson has faced 23 recalls over nine years, the CX-50 has had six recalls in just four years, suggesting a shorter but potentially impactful history. With owner complaints at 8.9 per 10,000 units sold for the Tucson versus 27.4 for the CX-50, the Tucson demonstrates a significantly lower complaint rate. Additionally, the Tucson's estimated annual repair cost of $426 further underscores its reliability advantage.

Reliability problem analysis

The Hyundai Tucson exhibits a higher volume of complaints, particularly in the engine category with 397 complaints, including 3 crash-linked incidents, indicating a potential area of concern. In comparison, the Mazda CX-50 has significantly fewer complaints overall, with only 96 recorded, and the most notable issues being in service brakes and general unknown or other categories. Both models show some vulnerability in forward collision avoidance systems, with the Tucson having 106 complaints and 12 crash-linked incidents, while the CX-50 has 6 complaints with 2 linked to crashes. The Tucson's power train and electrical system also feature prominently, with 260 and 231 complaints respectively, unlike the CX-50, which has relatively minimal issues in these areas.

Which one to buy

If you prioritize reliability and lower maintenance costs, the Hyundai Tucson is your best choice. With a solid reliability score of 83/100, it has a lower owner complaint rate of 8.9 per 10,000 sold compared to the Mazda CX-50. The Tucson's estimated annual repair cost is $426, and it has a repair frequency of 0.3 times per year, making it a cost-effective option for those who want peace of mind and fewer unexpected expenses.

On the other hand, if you are concerned about recall history, the Mazda CX-50 might catch your attention with only 6 total recalls. However, it has a lower reliability score of 66/100 and a higher complaint rate of 27.4 per 10,000 sold, suggesting potential issues. While the CX-50's top issues include service brakes and power train, it lacks comprehensive data on repair costs and frequency. Overall, for most buyers seeking reliability and manageable upkeep, the Hyundai Tucson is the recommended choice.

Cost of ownership

Based on independent repair cost data, the Hyundai Tucson has an annual repair cost of $426, with an average of 0.3 repair visits per year and a 10% risk of major repairs. This translates to roughly one repair visit every three years, with a relatively low chance of incurring significant expenses. While specific figures for the Mazda CX-50 are unavailable, the Tucson's data offers valuable insight for cost-conscious buyers.

Given the Tucson's predictable maintenance costs and low repair frequency, it presents a reliable option for those looking to minimize unexpected expenses over the vehicle's lifespan. Without comparable data for the CX-50, the Tucson stands out as a practical choice for budget-minded owners.