2025 Mazda CX-5 vs. 2025 Mazda CX-50

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 and CX-50 are popular compact SUVs that stand out when making automobile comparisons. Though similar in some ways, they target different driver needs. The CX-5 features a city-friendly design, while the CX-50 sports a tougher, more adventure-ready look. Read as our team looks at what sets these two apart to help you decide which may be your perfect match for driving in Orange County, California.

Exterior and Design

One glance at these SUVs tells you they match different lifestyles. The CX-5 rocks a refined, city-slicker vibe with clean lines and a taller stance. The CX-50 has a wider body, chunky cladding, and a rugged appearance.

Size-wise, the CX-50 is larger. Its 110.8-inch wheelbase is longer than the CX-5’s 106.2 inches, with an overall length of 185.8 inches compared to the CX-5’s 180.1 inches. The CX-5 is 66.1 inches tall, while the CX-50 is considerably shorter at 63.5 inches. This height difference gives the CX-50 a sleeker, more planted look, while the CX-5 has a classic SUV profile.

The CX-5 has standard 17-inch wheels, with 19-inch wheels on higher trims. Depending on the trim, the CX-50 offers 17-, 18-, or 20-inch wheels. Both models come in various colors, but the CX-50’s black cladding gives it a much more robust appearance.

Performance and Capability

Both SUVs offer similar engines, starting with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder making 187 hp. A turbocharged version delivers 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium gas. Both use an automatic transmission and Mazda’s all-wheel-drive system for better traction.

The CX-50 tows up to 3,500 pounds with the turbo engine, beating the CX-5’s 2,000-pound limit. Ground clearance for the CX-50 is 8.5 inches compared to the CX-5’s 7.9 inches. The CX-50 includes off-road traction assist and hill-descent control for rough trails.

The basic CX-5 goes from 0 to 60 mph in 8.1 seconds, while the turbo version does it in 6.2 seconds. A hybrid CX-50 combines a 2.5-liter gas engine with electric motors for 219 hp and improved fuel economy, while the CX-5 doesn’t offer a hybrid option.

Interior and Comfort

The CX-5 features genuine wood trim and nappa leather in top models. The CX-50 stays true to its adventurous spirit with durable, water-resistant seating materials, perfect after muddy hikes or beach trips.

The CX-5 gives more overall passenger room and headroom, while the CX-50 wins with extra room in the rear seats. Cargo-wise, the CX-5 offers 59.6 cubic feet of space with the seats down compared to the CX-50’s 56.3 cubic feet, but the CX-50 edges ahead when the seats are up with 31.4 cubic feet compared to the CX-5’s 29.1 cubic feet.

Both SUVs include heated and cooled seats and dual-zone climate control. The CX-50 adds clever storage solutions. Both run quietly, with the CX-5 riding smoother on pavement, while the CX-50 handles varied terrain better.

Technology and Features

Both models feature a 10.25-inch infotainment display across all trims. The CX-50 comes with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The CX-5 makes you pay more for this wireless freedom on higher trims. Most CX-50 models also throw in a wireless charging pad.

Music lovers take note: The CX-5 starts with a four-speaker audio system, which isn’t as impressive as the CX-50’s base eight-speaker system. The CX-50 offers a 12-speaker Bose setup that outperforms the CX-5’s 10-speaker option. The CX-50 also features Amazon Alexa.

Safety features are top-notch in both models. Mazda adds standard adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping help, blind-spot warnings, and rear cross-traffic alerts. While the CX-50 may have a few extra technological tricks, both SUVs offer enough digital goodies to satisfy.

Fuel Economy and Efficiency

The CX-50’s base engine manages 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. The turbo version isn’t as efficient, getting 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The CX-5 returns 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway with its base engine, while turbo models drop to 22 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. Mazda CX-50 reviews from Car and Driver found the turbo model got 29 mpg at a steady 75 mph, while the turbo CX-5 managed 30 mpg.

The CX-50 Hybrid crushes the competition with 38 mpg combined. During highway testing, the hybrid still hit 34 mpg, making it the clear winner if you’re a long-distance commuter watching your gas card.

Pricing and Value

The CX-5 costs less upfront, starting at $28,770 for the base 2.5 S trim vs. $30,500 for the CX-50’s entry 2.5 S Select. This gap persists at the high end: the CX-5 Turbo Signature costs $40,800, while the CX-50 Turbo Premium Plus reaches $43,500.

The CX-50 Hybrid ranges from $33,970 (Preferred) to $40,050 (Premium Plus). Fuel savings may offset the higher initial cost if you’re a high-mileage driver.

Long-term, the CX-5 holds a slight advantage, with Edmunds estimating five-year costs of $50,225 vs. the CX-50’s $51,501. Both offer identical warranties: three-year/36,000-mile New Vehicle Limited, five-year/60,000-mile Powertrain Limited, and three-year/36,000-mile roadside assistance.

Consumer and Expert Opinions

Critics and drivers rate both SUVs highly, with key differences. For reliability, the CX-5 scores 82 from J.D. Power vs. the CX-50’s 72, an advantage worth noting for long-term ownership.

Edmunds gave both identical 8.1/10 overall scores with different strengths. The CX-5 scores 8.5/10 for storage (CX-50: 8), while the CX-50 wins in performance (8.5/10) and interior (8.5/10) vs. the CX-5’s 8 in both. According to Kelley Blue Book, consumers give the CX-5 4.4/5 stars compared to the CX-50’s 4.6/5.

Car and Driver included both on their Editors’ Choice list. Reviewers praise the CX-5 for smooth driving and refinement, while the CX-50 earns points for rugged style and off-road ability. Both excel in crash tests.

Which Mazda SUV Should You Choose?

Choosing the ideal SUV depends on your lifestyle. The CX-5 makes more sense for city driving with its lower price tag, proven reliability, and slightly cushier ride. You’ll find lots to love if you want luxury touches without a premium price. The CX-50 offers better ground clearance, stronger towing muscle, and an exclusive hybrid option for weekend adventures without sacrificing weekday comfort. You’ll pay more but get better gas mileage and some extra technological goodies. Visit us at Capistrano Mazda in Orange County to see which one makes you smile more.