2024 Mazda CX-5 vs 2024 Mazda CX-50

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 presented itself as a rugged counterpart to the more refined CX-5. Unlike other automakers that merely add some plastic cladding for a rugged look, Mazda lowered the CX-50 by 1.4 inches, widened it by 3 inches, and extended its length by 5.7 inches compared to the CX-5. This alteration gave the SUV broad-shouldered proportions, emphasized by square wheel arches and fake air vents below the headlights and taillights. As a newer model—having only been introduced in 2023—the CX-50 had a fresh design that felt modern, a sharp contrast to the CX-5 which retained a design that dated back to 2017.

The 2024 CX-50 came in eight trim levels: 2.5 S Select, 2.5 S Preferred, 2.5 S Premium, 2.5 S Premium Plus, 2.5 Turbo, 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition, 2.5 Turbo Premium, and 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus. The Meridian Edition specifically stood out with features tailored to an active lifestyle, such as all-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels, a black hood graphic, and more prominent rocker-panel trim. Additionally, Mazda offered an optional Apex Package with a roof platform and splash guards, making it somewhat comparable to competitors like the Kia Sportage X-Pro and Subaru Forester Wilderness. However, Mazda did not make any changes to the suspension of the CX-50 or add drive modes for enhanced off-road capabilities beyond what was available on other trim levels.

Inside, the CX-50 boasted an attractive design with a well-placed infotainment screen and high-quality materials. However, for buyers seeking luxury, it didn’t entirely meet Mazda’s upscale aspirations. Standard trim levels offered half-leatherette seats and manually adjustable front seats, which revealed the brand’s mainstream roots.

On the other hand, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its timeless design from 2017 but continued to look modern and appealing. The test vehicle in the new-for-2024 Carbon Turbo trim featured Zircon Sand paint and Terracotta leather seats with black artificial suede inserts. The gloss-black exterior detailing added to its polished appearance.

The 2024 update brought several enhancements, including better fuel efficiency for the base engine models, the elimination of a specific 19-inch wheel design, and the addition of wireless charging and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in several trim levels. The trim line-up for the CX-5 included the 2.5 S and 2.5 Turbo models, with prices ranging from $29,300 to $40,600.

Over the years, Mazda made significant upgrades to the CX-5’s interior materials, seating, technology, drivetrain, and suspension. These enhancements resulted in an upscale feeling crossover SUV that stood out in the compact segment, offering a blend of sophisticated design and modern features.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 offered a blend of naturally aspirated and turbocharged versions of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine across its various trims. The base engine produced 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, while the turbocharged variant delivered 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on 93-octane fuel, or 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet using regular 87-octane gas.

A six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive were standard on all CX-50 models. Driving modes included Normal, Sport, and Off-road, with Turbo models adding a Towing mode which increased the towing capacity from the standard 2,000 pounds to 3,500 pounds.

In terms of driving dynamics, the CX-50 shared its powertrains with the CX-5 but offered a different experience. While the CX-5 maintained Mazda’s “Zoom Zoom” ethos with sporty driving dynamics, the CX-50 was more of a comfortable daily driver. The CX-50’s handling was hampered somewhat by the all-terrain tires on the Meridian Edition, which added noise and reduced grip. These tires, along with the roof platform on the Meridian Edition, added wind noise at highway speeds. Nonetheless, the CX-50 remained well-mannered, making it a decent but less thrilling choice for those valuing performance over rugged styling.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo, when filled with premium gas, delivered 256 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and an impressive 320 pound-feet of torque at 2,500 rpm. On regular gas, it offered 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet, with torque arriving 500 rpm sooner. Unlike the CX-50, the CX-5’s powertrain excelled when the accelerator was gradually pressed, allowing the driver to ride the wave of torque.

Fuel efficiency was a weak point for the turbocharged CX-5, with an EPA rating of 24 mpg combined; real-world testing saw even lower figures at 22.9 mpg. For those prioritizing fuel economy, the base 2.5 S without the turbocharger was a better choice.

The CX-5 conveyed a feeling of being tall and narrow, providing excellent outward visibility and easy maneuverability in traffic and tight spaces. Mazda’s enhancements over the years, including re-tuned suspension and stiffer frame, resulted in a smoother ride and responsive handling with minimal body motion. From city driving to highways and twisty mountain roads, the CX-5 offered a sophisticated and enjoyable driving experience. Additionally, it featured an Off-Road mode capable of handling trails, although with a lower 2,000-pound towing capacity compared to the CX-50.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 offered slightly less headroom but more legroom compared to the CX-5 in both the front and rear rows. Space-wise, it was competitive with models like the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Kia Sportage, and Subaru Forester. However, it fell short in headroom. It provided 31.4 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 56.3 cubic feet with them folded. Notably, this was three cubic feet less than the CX-5 with the seats down, though it offered slightly more cargo space with the seats up.

The CX-50's cargo area was accessible through an available power liftgate, but it lacked features that added significant functionality for more rugged uses. The high roof platform of the Meridian Edition could be cumbersome for shorter users. Inside, a sturdy shifter and Mazda’s rotary infotainment controller occupied the center console, maintaining a layout sensible for everyday use.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5’s interior continued to shine with features like standard heated front seats across all trim levels. Adjustments were available with a six-way power driver’s seat and manual height adjustments for passengers. With leather seats standard across most trims and top-end models boasting premium Nappa leather, the cabin was cozy and supportive. Heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and ventilated front seats appeared in higher trims.

Interior space was slightly more cramped compared to some rivals, making it a snug yet comfortable ride for four adults. Rear passengers enjoyed supportive seating with soft front seatback material and amenities like air conditioning vents and a center armrest with cupholders.

The CX-5 topped the CX-50 in terms of cargo capacity, offering 30 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with the seats folded down. This capacity was sufficient for family trips and outperformed many rivals in the compact segment.

A 10.25-inch infotainment screen was standard in the 2024 Mazda CX-50, operated via a rotary controller on the center console. While the system avoided touch inputs, it offered wireless Apple CarPlay, although Android Auto required a cable. Higher trims included wireless phone charging, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The rotary controller was user-friendly, allowing adjustments without taking eyes off the road. Despite its ease of use, the infotainment system felt outdated, offering basic functionality and simple graphics.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 adhered to a similar philosophy, prioritizing traditional controls over touchscreens to reduce driver distraction. It offered touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless connectivity available in several trims. The 10.25-inch display was navigated using a knob and surrounding buttons on the center console. The interface required minimal interaction once configured.

Mazda Connected Services provided additional features like remote engine start, a find my car feature, Wi-Fi hotspot, and automatic 911 dialing. Several CX-5 trims came with a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system, enhancing the premium interior feel.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 received the 2023 Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS, achieving top scores in most crash tests and front-crash prevention tech. However, its performance in the nighttime vehicle-to-pedestrian test was less impressive. While complete NHTSA ratings weren’t available, it had earned five stars in frontal crash tests and four stars in rollover ratings. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and lane-departure warning. Optional features included rear automatic braking, traffic-jam assist, and a 360-degree camera system.

Every 2024 Mazda CX-5 model came with advanced driver-assist systems including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims incorporated additional safety tech like adaptive headlights, traffic sign recognition, Traffic Jam Assist, driver monitoring system, surround-view camera, and front and rear parking sensors.

Although our Carbon Turbo test car lacked some of these upgrades, the standard features performed admirably. The lane departure and lane keeping systems were unobtrusive yet effective. Historically, the CX-5 had strong safety ratings, and for 2024 it continued to receive high marks from the NHTSA, achieving five-star ratings across the board with the exception of a four-star rollover resistance rating.