When it comes to compact SUVs, Mazda stands out as a brand that delivers both style and substance. If you’re looking for a compact SUV that combines driving enjoyment with practical features, you’ve probably come across the Mazda CX 5 and the newer Mazda CX 50. Both models offer unique features, but which one best suits your lifestyle?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down every important aspect of the CX 5 and CX 50, from design and performance to technology, trims, generations, and versatility, so you can make an informed choice that fits your needs and aspirations.
What is the difference between Mazda CX 5 and CX 50?
Understanding the main differences between the Mazda CX 5 and CX 50 requires looking at their design philosophy, capabilities, and how each evolved over time, specifically through their generations. While they may appear similar at a glance, these two compact SUVs are designed for distinctly different lifestyles and driving needs.
Generational Evolution of Mazda CX 5 and Mazda CX 50
Let’s explore how the Mazda CX 5 and Mazda CX 50’s design philosophies and evolution over time have shaped their audience:
Mazda CX 5 Generations: A Journey of Urban Elegance
The Mazda CX 5 debuted in 2012 and quickly became a cornerstone of Mazda’s SUV lineup. Its goal was to combine stylish looks, fuel efficiency, and a fun-to-drive character. Over the years, it refined its design and features while maintaining its urban-friendly size and handling.
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First Generation Mazda CX 5 (2012–2016): Introduced Mazda’s Kodo design language and SkyActiv technology. It was designed for commuters and families seeking car-like comfort and SUV practicality.
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Second Generation Mazda CX 5 (2017–Present): Sharper design, quieter cabin, improved handling, and available turbocharged engine. Enhanced safety features and upgraded infotainment. Positioned more upscale to compete with near-luxury compact SUVs.
Mazda CX 50 Generations: Designed for Rugged Adventures
The Mazda CX 50 is a brand-new nameplate introduced in 2023. Though it shares mechanical similarities with the CX 5, it’s built with a different purpose: handling rugged terrain, longer adventures, and an active lifestyle.
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First Generation Mazda CX 50 (2023-Present): Built on a wider, more aggressive platform. It features standard all-wheel drive, higher ground clearance, off-road drive modes, stronger roof rails, more rugged design elements, and a more adventurous personality.
What’s new in the 2025 Mazda CX 5?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 continues to refine its appeal with thoughtful updates across technology, safety, and design. All trims now feature a standard 10.25-inch central display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration; in higher trims like the Carbon Edition and above, these features function wirelessly and include wireless device charging.
Additionally, dual USB-C ports are now standard across all models, enhancing connectivity for modern devices. The Premium Plus trim sees enhancements such as a 360-degree surround-view camera system, head-up display, driver attention alert, automatic high beams, and 19-inch alloy wheels, further elevating the driving experience.
What’s new in the 2025 Mazda CX 50?
The 2025 Mazda CX-50 introduces significant updates, most notably the addition of a hybrid powertrain. All models now come with a larger 10.25-inch infotainment display and Amazon's Alexa voice assistant as standard. Safety advancements include a new rear-seat alert system and improved nighttime pedestrian detection.
The interior sees upgrades with premium materials, and higher trims offer features like a panoramic moonroof, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, and ventilated front seats. Unique styling cues, such as distinct wheel designs and interior color options like the hybrid-only red leather, differentiate these models from their gasoline counterparts. These updates solidify the CX-50's modern, versatile SUV position in Mazda's lineup.
What are the Mazda CX 5 vs Mazda CX 50 specs?
Here's a detailed comparison of the 2025 Mazda CX-5 and CX-50 across key specifications:
Engine and Performance: Mazda CX 5 vs Mazda CX 50
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Mazda CX-5: The CX-5 offers two engine options. The base 2.5-liter SKYACTIV®-G inline-four delivers 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. The turbocharged variant produces up to 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel for enhanced performance. Both engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and come standard with Mazda's i-Activ AWD system.
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Mazda CX-50: Similarly, the CX-50 provides a base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. The turbocharged version increases output to 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. Additionally, the 2025 CX-50 introduces a hybrid model combining a 2.5-liter engine with three electric motors, yielding 219 horsepower. All variants come with standard all-wheel drive.
Fuel Efficiency: Mazda CX 5 vs Mazda CX 50
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Mazda CX-5: Fuel economy varies by engine. The base engine achieves an EPA-estimated 26 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. The turbocharged version sees slightly lower figures, with 22 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.
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Mazda CX-50: The standard engine offers comparable fuel efficiency to the CX-5. The hybrid model has an EPA-estimated 38 mpg combined, making it the most fuel-efficient option in the lineup.
Towing Capacity: Mazda CX 5 vs Mazda CX 50
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Mazda CX-5: Regardless of the engine choice, the CX-5 has a maximum towing capacity of 2,000 pounds, suitable for small trailers or recreational equipment.
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Mazda CX-50: The CX-50 offers greater towing capabilities. The base engine can tow up to 2,000 pounds, while the turbocharged version increases this capacity to 3,500 pounds. The hybrid model has a towing capacity of 1,500 pounds.
Interior Design: Mazda CX 5 vs Mazda CX 50
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Mazda CX 5: The CX 5 interior emphasizes luxury and comfort, featuring available Caturra Brown Nappa leather-trimmed seats and genuine layered wood trim. It also features heated and ventilated front seats, an eight-way power driver’s seat with memory (upper trims), and dual-zone climate control.
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Mazda CX 50: The CX 50 interior offers leatherette or leather seating with outdoor-inspired accents; hybrid trims feature bold red leather and detailed stitching designs. It also offers standard heated front seats, ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel and rear seats, power-adjustable driver seating, and a panoramic moonroof in higher trims.
Exterior Design: Mazda CX 5 vs Mazda CX 50
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Mazda CX 5: Clean surfaces, minimal character lines, and sculpted curves create a fluid, aerodynamic profile. Slim LED headlights and taillights, with adaptive auto-leveling LEDs available on higher trims. Body-colored mirrors and handles, dual chrome exhaust outlets, a rear spoiler, a shark-fin antenna, and a distinctive front grille “signature wing.”
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Mazda CX 50: Wider stance with flared fenders, lower body cladding, and matte-black hood decal on certain trims for a more aggressive, off-road-ready look. Black roof rails, a rugged roof rack-ready design, wider-open rear doors, and body accents meant for active lifestyles.
Trim Levels and Pricing: Mazda CX 5 vs Mazda CX 50
Firstly, let’s look at the 2025 Mazda CX 5 trim levels and pricing:
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Mazda CX 5 2.5 S Price: Starting at $28,770
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Mazda CX 5 2.5 S Select Price: Starting at $30,100
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Mazda CX 5 2.5 S Preferred Price: Starting at $31,450
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Mazda CX 5 2.5 S Carbon Edition Price: Starting at $32,800
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Mazda CX 5 2.5 Premium Plus Price: Starting at $35,400
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Mazda CX 5 2.5 Carbon Turbo Price: Starting at $37,200
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Mazda CX 5 2.5 Turbo Premium Price: Starting at $38,000
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Mazda CX 5 2.5 Turbo Signature Price: Starting at $40,800
Here are the 2025 Mazda CX 50 trim levels and pricing:
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Mazda CX 50 2.5 S Select Price: Starting at $30,500
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Mazda CX 50 2.5 S Preferred Price: Starting at $31,850
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Mazda CX 50 2.5 S Premium Price: Starting at $34,200
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Mazda CX 50 2.5 Premium Plus Price: Starting at $37,700
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Mazda CX 50 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition Price: Starting at $41,000
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Mazda CX 50 2.5 Turbo Premium Price: Starting at $41,500
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Mazda CX 50 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus Price: Starting at $43,500
Let’s look at the summary highlights of the Mazda CX 5 vs Mazda CX 50:
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Mazda CX 5 trim levels: Emphasize comfort and refinement across the lineup. Upper trims introduce luxury (Nappa leather, wood trim, head-up display) and performance (turbo engines, turbo-exclusive styling and features).
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Mazda CX 50 trim levels: Built for adventure. Base trims offer solid tech and comfort; Premium and turbo models bring leather, a moonroof, Base sound, heated seats, and towing enhancements. The hybrid variants prioritize efficiency (40 mpg) while retaining tech and upscale touches.
Which is Better: Mazda CX 5 or Mazda CX 50?
If comfort, urban ease, a refined interior, and cost-efficiency are your top priorities, the Mazda CX 5 is the better match. It offers a quieter ride, an upscale cabin, and easier maneuverability in town. On the other hand, if your lifestyle includes adventuring with purpose, like hiking, trail drives, towing a small trailer, or exploring dirt roads, the Mazda CX 50 stands out with its rugged build, towing capability, elevated ride height, and hybrid efficiency.
However, if you want to improve your vehicle’s performance, no matter what model or model year it is, all you need to do is upgrade your vehicle with the best throttle response controller: Pedal Commander
Unlock the Raw Power of Your Mazda CX 5 or Mazda CX 50 with Pedal Commander
No matter which model year Mazda CX 5 or Mazda CX 50 you have, you can unlock its raw power with Pedal Commander. As the most practical and versatile throttle response controller, Pedal Commander is designed to eliminate throttle lag from the accelerator pedal, giving your vehicle quicker acceleration and better fuel efficiency with no engine tuning or permanent modifications.
What sets the Pedal Commander apart is its fully customizable driving experience. With four dynamic modes, including Eco, City, Sport, and Sport+, Pedal Commander puts the power in your hands. Each mode comes with fine-tuned levels so you can dial in the perfect performance for any road, any time. So, whether you’re towing, tackling rough terrain, or needing more control behind the wheel, Pedal Commander prepares your vehicle for every road adventure.
Plus, Pedal Commander goes beyond performance thanks to its Anti-Theft feature. When activated, this feature turns off the vehicle’s gas pedal, preventing unauthorized use of your vehicle. Enjoy the Anti-Theft feature for the first 14 days FOR FREE, then easily subscribe through the Pedal Commander mobile app and choose from two subscription plans: $0.99 per month or $9.99 per year—cheaper than a gas station snack!
