What’s the Difference Between the Mazda CX-5 and CX-50?

If you’re torn between two attractive SUV options and wondering what the difference between the Mazda CX-5 and CX-50 is, you’re not alone. Mazda offers crossover buyers a dynamic duo of top-tier styling, advanced tech, and thrilling performance, but how do they compare? Does one provide more cargo space, rear legroom, or off-road capability? In this guide, the team at Kiefer Mazda highlights the key differences between the Mazda CX-5 and the CX-50, including price, cargo space, and performance.

Exterior

When comparing the new Mazda CX-50 and CX-5, their distinctive aesthetic alludes to their capability and lifestyle appeal. The CX-5 flaunts an aerodynamic, city-centric, compact profile, with a length including the license plates of 180.1 inches, a width without the outer mirrors of 72.6 inches, and a height up to the shark fin antenna of 66.1 inches. Its sleek allure and striking front grille showcase Mazda’s unmistakable Kodo design. Top-end trims feature 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels, and 17-inch wheels are standard on lower trim levels. All-season tires, LED auto on/off headlights, and daytime running lights are standard across the lineup.

Is the Mazda CX-50 bigger than the CX-5? The answer is the CX-5 stands taller, and the CX-50 is longer and wider. Ready to take you anywhere you want to go, the rugged CX-50 is 185.8 inches long, 72.9 inches wide, and 63.9 inches high. Its longer length, broader posture, and lower roofline reinforce its sturdy terrain-ready stance.

Depending on the trim level, the CX-50 boasts up to 20-inch aluminum alloy wheels, with 18-inch wheels as standard across most trims. Whether you prioritize the CX-5’s urban-friendly agility or the CX-50’s adventure-ready build, Mazda offers two distinctive crossovers to consider.

Interior Comfort and Cargo Space

Mazda styles both the Mazda CX-5 and CX-50 with upscale interiors and premium materials, including a leather-wrapped gear selector and steering wheel. Their functionality, dimensions, and cargo space set them apart. The luxurious CX-5 has a compact layout with 39.3 inches of front headroom with a moonroof, 39 inches of rear headroom, and 39.6 inches of rear legroom, perfect for a comfortable urban ride. Mid-tier trims sport leather-trimmed seats, and the top-end model flaunts a black cloth headliner and genuine layered wood trim.

The trail-ready CX-50 has a more spacious cabin and lower roofline, with the front headroom measuring 38.6 inches and the rear 38.5 inches. The nimble Mazda CX-5 gives you 29.1 cubic feet behind the second row, while the off-road capable CX-50 expands to 31.4 cubic feet, allowing adventure enthusiasts extra space for gear. The CX-50 base trims feature leatherette-trimmed seats, and the higher trim levels showcase heated leather-trimmed seats and a heated steering wheel.

Performance

The base trims of both the Mazda CX-5 and CX-50 share a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. If you’re seeking optimal power, the upper trims boast a 227-horsepower turbocharged version, generating 320 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel. Both SUVs pair with a six-speed automatic transmission and come standard with all-wheel drive. Although these versatile crossovers offer similar powertrains, the CX-50 features off-road tuning, and the upper trims provide dedicated towing modes.

There’s a negligible difference in fuel economy. The CX-5 achieves up to 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, while the lower trims of the CX-50 get 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the interstate.

Technology and Safety

Mazda prioritized advanced tech and safety features in both the CX-5 and CX-50. The comfort-driven CX-5 offers a 10.25-inch full-color infotainment display with Bluetooth, hands-free phone and audio capability, steering-wheel-mounted audio, phone and cruise controls, and smartphone integration. The trail-focused CX-50 enhances convenience with wireless connectivity and Alexa built-in.

Both SUVs feature an advanced suite of i-ACTIVSENSE safety technology, including radar cruise control, hill-launch assist, dynamic stability control, lane departure warning, side-impact door beams, and blind-spot monitoring. Mazda sets the CX-50 apart with additional off-road-focused driver-assist technologies, such as emergency lane keeping and secondary collision reduction, to complement its rugged capability. It also outfits the CX-50 with a knee airbag for the driver and front passenger.

Price

The Mazda CX-5 and CX-50 price differences reflect their capabilities and driver preferences. The CX-5 has a lower MSRP of $28,770, making it an attractive choice if you’re an urban driver seeking a premium, budget-friendly crossover SUV. Boasting off-road enhancements and an upgraded suspension, the CX-50 commands a slightly higher starting MSRP of $30,500. Both premium SUVs come well equipped with a user-friendly infotainment system, advanced safety features, and premium materials across trim levels.

Which Mazda SUV Is Right for You?

The CX-5 excels in city settings, offering a comfortable ride, agile handling, and a luxurious cabin. Its compact design enhances maneuverability through narrow streets and tight parking spaces. If you’re an adventure seeker, the trail-ready CX-50 is your drive. Its bolder stance, increased ground clearance, and off-road drive modes enhance capability on challenging terrain. Both SUVs feature Mazda’s intuitive infotainment system, i-ACTIVSENSE safety technologies, and all-wheel drive as standard.

The choice between the new CX-5 vs. the CX-50 depends on your lifestyle and budget. Whether you prioritize city-friendly comfort or outdoor versatility, Mazda delivers two compelling options to elevate your driving experience.

Find Your New Mazda CX-5 or CX-50 at Kiefer Mazda

Are you ready to discover the dynamic performance and versatility of the exceptional Mazda CX-5 or CX-50? Contact us today, or schedule a test-drive of your favorite Mazda crossover at our dealership in Eugene, Oregon. Why not indulge yourself and take both for a spin? Our friendly Kiefer Mazda team is here to answer your questions and help you decide.

CX-50 and CX-5 courtesy of Mazda USA