Hyundai Santa Fe Vs. Mazda CX-5: Is It Worth It?

Introduction

As a golfer with a keen interest in vehicles that offer both practical utility and a pleasurable driving experience, I am constantly on the lookout for SUVs that strike this balance. My personal journey involves finding a car that can not only reliably transport my golf clubs but also comfortably accommodate me and my companions for frequent trips to various courses. I am particularly drawn to SUVs that offer a blend of versatility, thoughtful design, and enjoyable dynamics.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive comparison between two prominent mid-size SUVs: the Hyundai Santa Fe and the Mazda CX-5.

My goal is to help fellow golfers make an informed decision about which of these popular vehicles best aligns with their specific needs and preferences.

From cargo space for golf equipment to engaging driving dynamics for the open road, I’ll share my firsthand insights to guide you toward the right choice for your golfing and daily driving lifestyle.

Comparison Table: Hyundai Santa Fe Vs. Mazda CX-5

My Journey With SUVs

My personal journey with sport utility vehicles stemmed from a practical need to transport more than just myself and a single golf bag. As my lifestyle evolved to include more group golf outings and longer road trips, the necessity for versatile cargo space and comfortable passenger seating became clear. This led me to explore the mid-size SUV segment, seeking a vehicle that could blend everyday functionality with a pleasant driving experience.

My typical use case involves daily commutes, frequent weekend trips to local golf courses, sometimes with one or two playing partners, and occasional longer excursions for golf tournaments. I prioritize sufficient trunk space for my golf clubs, comfortable seating for companions, and a reliable vehicle that handles well on both highways and potentially unpaved club access roads. My golfing style often involves carpooling, making the overall practicality and ease of loading gear significant factors.

To thoroughly assess the Hyundai Santa Fe and Mazda CX-5, I meticulously examined their specifications, absorbed numerous professional evaluations, and considered real-world feedback from owners. My “testing approach” centered on imagining specific scenarios: how easily would a golf bag fit behind the second row? How comfortable is the ride during a two-hour drive after a physically demanding round? And which vehicle provides the most enjoyable and stress-free journey to the first tee?

Key Features Of Hyundai Santa Fe

• Design Philosophy & Target User: The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe represents a dramatic and deliberate shift towards a bold, boxy, and rugged design philosophy. It is engineered to maximize interior space, practicality, and versatility, aiming for a commanding and adventure-ready aesthetic.
  The target user for the Santa Fe is typically a modern family or individual seeking a distinctive SUV that excels in cargo capacity and offers a comfortable, technologically advanced cabin for both urban life and outdoor pursuits. For golfers, this means a stylish and spacious vehicle with easier access for golf equipment and a comfortable ride for longer excursions.
• Specific Features:
  • Bold, Expedition-Inspired Design: The most prominent feature of the new Santa Fe is its striking, squared-off exterior, characterized by distinctive H-shaped LED lighting and a robust, upright stance. This radical redesign gives it a unique and formidable presence on the road.
    This strong visual identity might appeal to golfers who desire a vehicle that stands out with a modern, rugged aesthetic.
  • Maximized Interior Space and Utility (Standard 3rd Row): The redesign has significantly expanded the Santa Fe’s interior volume, especially for cargo. It now comes standard with a third row of seating (on most trims), which, while compact, offers flexible seating for occasional extra passengers.
    The wider, boxier tailgate opening and increased overall cargo capacity (79.6 cu ft max) are incredibly beneficial for effortlessly loading multiple golf bags and associated gear.
  • Advanced Dual 12.3-inch Panoramic Display: The Santa Fe’s cabin features an impressive, seamlessly integrated curved display that combines dual 12.3-inch screens for the infotainment system and digital instrument cluster. This setup provides a sophisticated, high-tech and intuitive user experience.
    This state-of-the-art technology enhances navigation, entertainment, and overall connectivity, making long drives to distant golf courses more enjoyable and less fatiguing.
• Summary: The Hyundai Santa Fe is best suited for golfers and families who desire a boldly styled, highly spacious, and technologically advanced SUV with versatile interior configurations and a commanding presence for both daily family life and golf-centric adventures.

Key Features Of Mazda CX-5

• Design Philosophy & Target User: The Mazda CX-5 is crafted with Mazda’s “Kodo: Soul of Motion” design philosophy, focusing on elegant aesthetics, a premium feel, and, crucially, a highly engaging and driver-centric driving experience. It aims to deliver a sense of sophistication and precision that is often found in more expensive vehicles.
  The target user for the CX-5 is typically a driver who prioritizes stylish design, a refined interior, and dynamic handling, valuing the joy of driving above sheer cargo volume or third-row seating. For golfers, this means a vehicle that makes every journey, whether to the local club or a distant resort, an inherently enjoyable and connected experience.
• Specific Features:
  • Refined Driving Dynamics (Mazda’s Jinba Ittai Philosophy): The CX-5 is renowned for its exceptional driving dynamics, embodying Mazda’s “Jinba Ittai” philosophy (horse and rider as one). Its precise steering, well-tuned suspension, and responsive powertrains deliver a genuinely engaging and confidence-inspiring driving experience.
    For golfers who appreciate a car that feels agile and connected to the road, the CX-5 offers a more spirited journey.
  • Upscale Interior Aesthetics and Quality: Despite its mainstream price point, the Mazda CX-5’s interior feels remarkably upscale, featuring high-quality materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and a sophisticated design. The cabin ambiance often rivals that of luxury brands.
    This premium environment enhances comfort and enjoyment, making long drives to golf courses feel more refined and relaxing.
  • Available Turbocharged Engine with i-Activ AWD: The CX-5 offers an available turbocharged 2.5-liter engine that provides significantly more horsepower and torque than its base engine, delivering strong acceleration. Combined with Mazda’s predictive i-Activ AWD system, it offers confident traction and performance in various conditions.
    This combination of power and intelligent all-wheel drive ensures capable and engaging performance on diverse roads, including those leading to the course.
• Summary: The Mazda CX-5 is ideally suited for golfers who prioritize an engaging and refined driving experience, upscale interior aesthetics, and reliable all-wheel-drive capability, making it a stylish and enjoyable companion for everyday driving and golf trips.

Pros Of Hyundai Santa Fe

• Benefit 1: Superior Overall Interior and Cargo Space: The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe’s redesign has dramatically increased its interior volume, particularly its cargo capacity when the second and third rows are folded (79.6 cu ft max). Its wider, more squared-off tailgate also facilitates easier loading of bulky items like multiple golf bags.
  For golfers who frequently carry more than one set of clubs, push carts, or extensive gear, the Santa Fe offers significantly more adaptable and accessible space.
• Benefit 2: Standard Three-Row Seating for Flexibility: Unlike the two-row Mazda CX-5, the new Santa Fe comes standard with a third row of seating (on most trims). While compact, this provides invaluable flexibility for occasional extra passengers, such as carpooling an additional playing partner or child.
  This added seating capacity makes the Santa Fe a more versatile family and golf vehicle for those specific situations.
• Benefit 3: Bold New Styling and High-Tech Interior: The Santa Fe’s striking, boxy new design makes it stand out prominently in the SUV segment, offering a modern and rugged aesthetic. Its interior features dual 12.3-inch displays for a cohesive, high-tech dashboard.
  For golfers who want their vehicle to have a strong visual presence and offer a cutting-edge technological experience, the Santa Fe delivers a distinctive statement.

Cons Of Hyundai Santa Fe

• Drawback 1: Less Agile Driving Dynamics Compared to CX-5: While the Santa Fe offers a comfortable ride, its larger size and more utilitarian focus mean it generally doesn’t offer the same level of agile handling or driver engagement as the Mazda CX-5. Its steering might feel less communicative, and body roll more pronounced in corners.
  For golfers who prioritize a sporty, connected driving experience, the Santa Fe might feel less dynamic.
• Drawback 2: Third Row is Compact for Adults: Despite being a standard feature, the Santa Fe’s third row is best suited for children or very short trips for smaller adults. It lacks the generous legroom and comfort needed for full-sized adults on extended journeys.
  For golfers needing to regularly transport more than two adult playing partners, the third row might be a tight squeeze, potentially necessitating another vehicle or compromising comfort.
• Drawback 3: Fuel Economy is Competitive, Not Class-Leading: The Santa Fe’s gasoline engine and hybrid option offer competitive fuel economy, but its top hybrid MPG (around 30 combined) doesn’t quite match the efficiency of some other hybrids in the market. Its gas engine can also be thirsty when pushed.
  For golfers who make very long, frequent trips and prioritize maximum fuel savings above all else, there might be more economical options.

Pros Of Mazda CX-5

• Benefit 1: Engaging and Refined Driving Dynamics: The Mazda CX-5 is widely praised for its car-like handling, precise steering, and responsive performance, making it one of the most enjoyable SUVs to drive in its class. Its “Jinba Ittai” philosophy creates a strong connection between driver and vehicle.
  For golfers who appreciate a spirited drive to the course, the CX-5 offers a remarkably engaging and confidence-inspiring experience, even on winding roads.
• Benefit 2: Premium Interior Quality and Design: Despite being a mainstream brand, the CX-5’s interior often rivals that of luxury vehicles, with high-quality materials, tasteful design, and excellent ergonomics. The attention to detail creates a refined and sophisticated cabin atmosphere.
  This premium feel enhances comfort and enjoyment, making every trip, whether short or long, feel more upscale for the driver and passengers.
• Benefit 3: Standard All-Wheel Drive (on many trims) and Good Fuel Economy: While lower trims may have FWD, most CX-5 models come standard with Mazda’s i-Activ AWD system, providing confident traction in various conditions. Its gasoline engines also offer respectable fuel economy for a non-hybrid.
  For golfers who frequently encounter adverse weather or need reliable grip, the CX-5 delivers confidence, alongside reasonable running costs.

Cons Of Mazda CX-5

• Drawback 1: Limited Cargo Space Compared to Santa Fe: The Mazda CX-5 is a compact SUV, and its cargo capacity (29.1 cu ft behind the second row, 59.3 cu ft max) is significantly smaller than the larger, newly redesigned Hyundai Santa Fe. Fitting more than one golf bag can be a tight squeeze.
  For golfers who regularly carry multiple golf bags, push carts, or significant additional gear, the CX-5’s smaller cargo hold will feel restrictive.
• Drawback 2: No Third-Row Seating Option: The Mazda CX-5 is strictly a two-row, five-passenger SUV, with no option for a third row. This limits its versatility for larger families or for golfers who occasionally need to transport more than three other playing partners.
  This lack of flexible seating might necessitate a second vehicle for larger group golf outings.
• Drawback 3: Less Powerful Base Engine and No Hybrid/PHEV: The CX-5’s base engine (187 hp) is less powerful than the new Santa Fe’s standard turbocharged engine (277 hp). While a turbo option is available, the CX-5 lacks any hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrain options for maximum fuel efficiency.
  For golfers prioritizing strong acceleration from the base model or seeking an electrified, ultra-efficient option, the CX-5’s powertrain lineup is less diverse.

Analytical Breakdown: How They Compare On The Road

To gain a clearer understanding of how the Hyundai Santa Fe and Mazda CX-5 truly perform in practical scenarios for a golfer, I’ve analyzed their capabilities across several key metrics. This assessment focuses on their real-world impact and suitability.

• Performance Metric 1 (Cargo Space for Golf Gear): The Hyundai Santa Fe (with its larger, boxier redesign) offers significantly more overall cargo volume and a more accessible loading area. Its 79.6 cubic feet of maximum cargo space and wider tailgate opening make it much easier to fit multiple golf bags, push carts, and other bulky equipment.
  The Mazda CX-5, while efficient for its size, is considerably smaller (59.3 cu ft max) and will struggle to accommodate more than one or two golf bags without folding down the second row, which sacrifices passenger seating. For the golfer frequently carrying more than one set of clubs, the Santa Fe is the clear winner.
• Performance Metric 2 (Passenger Comfort and Seating Flexibility): The Hyundai Santa Fe offers greater overall passenger room, particularly for rear-seat occupants, and crucially, provides standard (though compact) third-row seating. This makes it more versatile for occasional carpools of up to 7 people.
  The Mazda CX-5 is a strict five-seater. While its first two rows are comfortable, it lacks the flexibility to transport larger groups of golfers or family members. For groups larger than four, the Santa Fe offers a notable advantage in adaptability.
• Performance Metric 3 (Driving Dynamics and Engagement): The Mazda CX-5 is the standout performer in terms of driving dynamics. Its precise steering, firm yet communicative suspension, and overall responsive feel make it genuinely enjoyable to drive, often feeling more like a sport sedan than an SUV.
  The Hyundai Santa Fe, while comfortable and capable, is a larger vehicle and doesn’t offer the same level of agile handling or driver engagement. For golfers who enjoy spirited driving on the way to the course, the CX-5 provides a superior experience.
• Performance Metric 4 (Interior Premium Feel vs. Modern Tech Integration): The Mazda CX-5 excels in delivering a truly premium interior feel for its class, with high-quality materials and a tasteful design that feels upscale. It prioritizes tactile quality and elegance.
  The Hyundai Santa Fe’s redesigned interior opts for a more modern, tech-forward approach with its dual integrated 12.3-inch screens and rugged aesthetic. Both are excellent, but the CX-5 feels more luxurious, while the Santa Fe feels more contemporary and robust.
• Performance Metric 5 (Powertrain and Fuel Economy): The Hyundai Santa Fe offers a more powerful standard turbocharged engine (277 hp) and an available hybrid option (30 MPG combined). This provides good power and efficiency.
  The Mazda CX-5’s base engine is less powerful (187 hp), though a stronger turbo is available. However, the CX-5 does not offer a hybrid option, meaning the Santa Fe provides a more fuel-efficient choice for those prioritizing electrification. For gasoline-only options, both are competitive, but Santa Fe’s base power is higher.

Who Should Choose Which SUV?

• Recommendation for Hyundai Santa Fe: The Hyundai Santa Fe is the ideal choice for the golfer who prioritizes maximum interior space, versatile cargo solutions with easy access, and the flexibility of standard three-row seating. It’s perfect if you frequently carry multiple golf bags, need to transport more than four people occasionally, and appreciate a bold, rugged new design with modern technology.
  This SUV is for the practical golfer who values utility, a distinctive look, and a comfortable, spacious cabin for all family and golf adventures.
• Recommendation for Mazda CX-5: The Mazda CX-5 is the superior choice for the golfer who seeks an engaging and refined driving experience, a premium interior feel, and a stylish two-row compact SUV. It’s perfect if you primarily travel with one or two golf bags, prioritize agile handling and a connected feel behind the wheel, and value sophisticated design and high-quality cabin materials.
  This SUV is for the golfer who considers the drive itself an important part of the experience, offering a blend of sportiness and elegance for everyday use and golf trips.

My Real-World Experience

My “real-world” experience, informed by countless observations and an understanding of these vehicles’ design philosophies, provides a clear illustration of their practical impacts on a golfer’s routine.

One specific scenario that perfectly highlights the Hyundai Santa Fe’s utility is a weekend golf trip where I’m carpooling with two friends, and we each have a full set of clubs and an overnight bag. The new Santa Fe’s generous cargo area, especially with the third row folded flat, would easily swallow all three golf bags laid down, plus our luggage and a cooler. The wide, boxy tailgate would make loading and unloading effortless, reducing the usual struggle after a long round. This vehicle truly makes group golf outings logistically simple and comfortable for everyone.

Conversely, imagine a solo drive to a golf course located an hour away, accessible via a winding country road. This is where the Mazda CX-5 would truly shine. Its precise steering and well-tuned suspension would transform the drive into an enjoyable experience, allowing me to feel connected to the road and confidently navigate the turns. The refined interior and quiet cabin would make the journey relaxing, preparing me mentally for the game ahead. While my golf bag would fit easily, the sheer pleasure of the drive itself would be the main highlight.

Why These SUVs Matter For Amateurs

Both the Hyundai Santa Fe and the Mazda CX-5 are incredibly relevant options for amateur golfers because they effectively address distinct yet crucial transportation needs. These vehicles are designed to be highly versatile, reliable, and capable, serving as essential companions for both daily family duties and recreational pursuits.

They cater to the target audience—amateur golfers—by offering sufficient cargo space for golf clubs and gear, along with comfortable seating for companions. This adaptability eliminates many logistical challenges associated with transporting equipment and playing partners. Furthermore, the inherent reliability associated with both Hyundai and Mazda provides peace of mind, minimizing unforeseen vehicle issues that could disrupt a planned tee time.

Ultimately, the choice between the Santa Fe and the CX-5 for an amateur golfer depends on their specific priorities and preferred driving experience. If maximum interior space, three-row flexibility, and a bold, modern design are paramount for varied family and golf needs, the Santa Fe is an excellent choice. 

However, if a more engaging and refined driving experience, a premium interior feel, and a nimble two-row compact SUV are desired, then the CX-5 stands out. Neither is definitively “better”; the optimal choice perfectly aligns with individual needs and how you typically approach your golfing adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Conclusion

In assessing both the Hyundai Santa Fe and the Mazda CX-5, it is evident that each offers a compelling yet distinct value proposition for the discerning golfer. The Santa Fe, with its radical new boxy design, expanded interior volume, and standard three-row seating, stands out as a highly practical and modern choice for family and golf trips requiring more space. 

The CX-5, conversely, excels in delivering an exceptionally engaging and refined driving experience, coupled with a premium interior and stylish design, appealing to those who cherish the joy of driving. The optimal choice ultimately hinges on whether a golfer prioritizes ultimate cargo and passenger flexibility in a bold package or a more compact, dynamically superior SUV that makes every journey feel more connected and upscale.