Mazda CX-5 vs Mazda CX-50

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 was a standout in the compact SUV class, borrowing styling cues from the CX-5 but enhancing them with more pronounced fender flares and a wider grille. This gave the CX-50 a sportier and more athletic stance while maintaining an elegant presence. Inside, the CX-50 featured a traditional layout with high-quality materials, including soft-touch surfaces and sturdy plastics. The interior was further accentuated by distinct stitching and exclusive red leather upholstery in the hybrid model. However, the decorative stripe running down the middle of the seats was a point of contention for some, as it could be felt through clothing and was likened to thong undergarments, albeit not unpleasantly.

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 was praised for its striking design, which was considered one of the best in its segment. The evolved Kodo design language, known as "Wearable Gear," gave the CX-5 a sculpted and purposeful appearance. The front featured a Signature Wing grille seamlessly integrated with new LED headlights, while the rear boasted angular lighting that tied it to Mazda's larger models. Despite the impressive exterior, the wheel designs were underwhelming, with the base and Select trims sporting small 17-inch wheels. Inside, the CX-5 continued Mazda's tradition of high-quality interiors with a clean dashboard design and a prominent central touchscreen. However, the presence of hard plastics in certain areas slightly detracted from the upscale feel.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid debuted with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with three electric motors, delivering 219 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque. It featured all-wheel drive but wasn't designed for serious off-road use. The hybrid powertrain, borrowed from the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, provided a smart balance between the 187hp base engine and the 256hp Turbo models. Acceleration was expected to be similar to the RAV4 Hybrid, reaching 60 mph in 7.5 to 8 seconds. The CX-50's sportier suspension tuning offered engaging handling, with minimal body roll and a firm yet smooth ride quality.

In contrast, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 was equipped with a carryover SkyActiv-G 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, producing 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, the engine felt underpowered for the heavier 3,856-pound vehicle. The 0-60 time of 9.6 seconds was the slowest in its segment, and the transmission struggled with responsiveness. The absence of the previous generation's turbocharged engine was notable, but Mazda planned to introduce a hybrid variant in 2027. Despite the powertrain limitations, the CX-5 excelled in handling, offering direct steering and well-managed body roll. The ride quality was firm yet comfortable, with improved insulation for reduced noise.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 offered a pleasant driving experience but fell short in terms of practicality and space. While the front seats provided ample room, the rear seats were less accommodating compared to rivals like the Honda CR-V Hybrid and Sportage Hybrid. Personal storage was adequate, but cargo space was limited to 29.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, significantly less than competitors. However, the space was usable, with a standard power liftgate and convenient features like remote rear seatback releases.

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 benefited from dimensional growth, resulting in a more spacious interior. The 4.5-inch wheelbase stretch improved rear knee clearance, and rear headroom was the best in its class. Cargo space increased to 38 cubic feet behind the second row, with a total of 70 cubic feet when the rear seats were folded. Larger door openings and a hands-free power liftgate added convenience. However, towing capacity decreased to 1,500 pounds, trailing behind competitors like the Tucson and Sportage.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 featured a 10.25-inch horizontal infotainment system controlled by a dial on the center console. While it lacked some modern touchscreen functionality, it offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Premium trim included a wireless charging pad and a 12-speaker Bose audio system.

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 saw significant upgrades in its infotainment system, with a 12.9-inch touchscreen on most trims and a 15.6-inch unit on the Premium Plus. Google built-in provided native navigation and voice assistant features, with a year's free data trial. The digital instrument cluster was standard, but its execution was lacking. The absence of a physical volume knob and a suboptimal climate control interface were noted drawbacks. Higher trims offered additional features like a Bose audio system and a 360-degree View Monitor.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid earned five stars in NHTSA crash tests, except for rollover protection, where it received four stars. It came with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. The adaptive cruise control was praised for its smooth operation.

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 boasted an extensive standard safety suite, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitors. The Premium Plus trim added advanced features like an adaptive front-lighting system and a 360-degree View Monitor. While crash test results were pending, the outgoing model had a strong safety track record, and expectations were high for the new CX-5.