“I would not recommend this model based purely on the very uncomfortable front seats. We have had to purchase cushions for any trip greater than 30 minutes.”
Mazda CX-50: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 4, 2026
The Mazda CX-50 is a compact SUV known for standard all-wheel drive, a practical cargo area, and an outdoorsy design. It combines rough-road and road-trip usefulness with responsive handling and a premium-feeling cabin.
Since its 2023 debut, the CX-50 has been Mazda’s more adventure-ready alternative to the CX-5. Its defining idea is simple: make a compact SUV useful for gear and rougher roads without losing a polished feel on pavement. The arrival of a hybrid in 2025 added an efficiency-focused option without changing that basic character.
Strengths
- Standard all-wheel drive gives every CX-50 built-in traction for bad weather and rougher roads.
- The long, flat cargo area is shaped to make road-trip gear and outdoor equipment easier to carry.
- Responsive steering and a premium-feeling cabin give it a more polished character than many everyday compact SUVs.
- The 2026 hybrid was rated at 39 mpg in city driving.
- Some 2026 gas versions were rated to tow up to 3,500 pounds.
Who it's for
The CX-50 fits shoppers who need an everyday compact SUV but regularly carry outdoor gear, take road trips, or drive in bad weather. It also suits drivers who want a more responsive, upscale-feeling experience than a purely practical family crossover typically provides.
Mazda CX-50 lineup
Select is the straightforward starting point, while Preferred and Premium versions move toward the more comfort-focused side of the range; for 2026, the 2.5 S Premium gained several features that had previously sat higher. Since 2025, the hybrid has served as the efficiency-focused alternative to the gas models. Pick a Turbo version when stronger engine output is the priority, with Turbo Premium Plus positioned at the upper end. Meridian Edition is the outdoor-themed choice; it started as turbo-only, while a non-turbo 2.5 S Meridian joined for 2026.
Mazda CX-50 generations
From 2023 to 2026, the CX-50 spans 1 generation. The current 1st Generation arrived for 2023.
1st Generation (2023–Present)
The CX-50 debuted as a compact two-row crossover with a wide, rugged look and standard AWD. It launched with two 2.5-liter gas engines, and the lineup gained its first hybrid models for 2025.
294 In Stock
2026Trim changes
A non-turbo Meridian Edition joins the lineup, while the upper gas trims are reorganized and some trims gain comfort and appearance updates.
2025Trim changes
The first CX-50 Hybrid models join the lineup. All versions also gain an updated safety suite and built-in Alexa.
2024Trim changes
Later-production models get revised suspension and steering tuning for a smoother ride. The trim lineup is also simplified.
2023New generation
The all-new CX-50 debuts as a two-row crossover with standard AWD and non-turbo or turbo 2.5-liter engines. The outdoor-themed Turbo Meridian Edition arrives later in the model year.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the Mazda CX-50.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Mazda CX-50 the same as the CX-5?
No. The CX-50 is a separate compact SUV with a wider, more rugged design, a long and flat cargo area, standard AWD, and a stronger outdoor focus. It still aims for the responsive steering and polished cabin feel associated with Mazda.
Does every Mazda CX-50 have AWD?
Yes. Every CX-50 comes with AWD. Gas models use Sport and Off-Road driving modes, while hybrid versions use Power and Trail modes to match their different powertrain.
Does the Mazda CX-50 come as a hybrid?
Yes. Hybrid CX-50 models joined the range for 2025. They pair a 2.5-liter hybrid system with an automatic transmission and electronic AWD, and they are offered in Preferred, Premium, and Premium Plus forms.
How much can a Mazda CX-50 tow?
It depends on the powertrain. In the latest lineup, non-turbo gas models are rated for up to 2,000 pounds, hybrids for 1,500 pounds, and turbo gas models for 3,500 pounds. Turbo trims also include a towing-focused driving mode.
Who is the Mazda CX-50 a good fit for?
The CX-50 suits shoppers who want a five-seat compact SUV for commuting, road trips, cargo, and occasional rough-road travel. Its standard AWD and outdoor-minded design add usefulness without giving up a polished cabin or responsive road manners.
How many generations of the Mazda CX-50 are there?
There is one generation. The CX-50 debuted for 2023, and updates through 2026 have changed powertrains, equipment, and trim packaging rather than replacing the original design with a full redesign.
Mazda CX-50 Reviews
What owners are saying about the Mazda CX-50.
4.1
Mazda CX-50
(486 reviews)
“It's great for roominess inside. Love the wide body of the car, looks damn good for an SUV. Nice colors”
“The cx50 is a great vehicle. Just make sure you have options to tow larger loads and larger phones will not fit into the wireless charger spot.”
“Overall, the Mazda CX50 Hybrid is a great choice. The seats are comfortable but firm and may be a tad bit too firm for some people on long trips. The ride quality is a bit firm, but not a big deal. The engine isn't the quietest particularly when accelerating, so that could be an issue for some. None of this was a deal breaker for me though.”
“In VT this is an excellent vehicle for having to drive on dirt roads and in winter conditions (ground clearance/AWD), the riding/driving experience feels luxurious for the price point (smooth ride, leather interior, great sound, easy display), the style/spaciousness are both excellent (sporty and great function for carrying stuff), and it's fun to drive!”
“As far as a hybrid suv, the cx50 is an excellent choice in terms of size, safety features, esthetics, and price. There are not many other non-plug ins on the market with this much cargo space at this price point.”
Sources
- news.mazdausa.com — 2025 09 16 2026 Mazda CX 50 Pricing and Packaging
- news.mazdausa.com — 2024 07 09 2025 CX 50 Pricing and Packaging
- news.mazdausa.com — 2023 07 18 2024 CX 50 Pricing and Packaging
- news.mazdausa.com — 2024 CX 50 Spec Deck
- news.mazdausa.com — 2022 02 22 Mazda Announces Pricing and Packaging for 2023 CX 50
- news.mazdausa.com — 2024 07 09 2025 CX 50 Pricing and Packaging
- news.mazdausa.com — 2021 11 15 Mazda Reveals All New CX 50
- news.mazdausa.com — 2022 08 02 2023 Mazda CX 50 Meridian Edition Furthers the Outdoor Experience