Mazda CX-5 vs Mazda CX-50

What Are The Differences in Size and Style?

Whether travelling through McCandless or taking on the off-road, you want a reliable framework and design with your chosen vehicle. How do the Mazda CX-5 and Mazda CX-50 compare?

Both have similar unibody designs, but the Mazda CX-5 is slightly more compact with a lower height giving it a sportier look. The bulkier Mazda CX-50, in comparison, goes for a more rugged look. Size isn’t the only distinction, the two have different rear suspensions – the Mazda CX-5 has a Multilink with stabilizer bar while the Mazda CX-50 has a torsion beam. This gives the Mazda CX-5 better on-road handling and the Mazda CX-50 better off-road handling, which could be important depending on where you plan to drive. Both models seat up to 5 passengers with comparable cargo and leg room, so you can expect good utility with either vehicle. It largely comes down to the small differences like the slimmer versus bulkier design and rear suspension that define which areas either model excels in.

It’s also important to consider the different trims on offer since it can help you customize your experience to further meet your needs. The Mazda CX-5 has the benefit of starting with the 2.5 S trim while the Mazda CX-50 starts with the pricier 2.5 S Select trim by default. Both vehicles have two categories, 2.5 S and 2.5 Turbo, with different levels like Preferred and Premium for both. The turbo trim provides a turbocharged engine with increased performance at the cost of fuel economy. As for Premium trims, they offer exclusive material, improved sound systems, ventilated seating and host of other premiere features. There’s plenty of options for either model so carefully consider your priorities and feel free to contact us with any questions you have regarding design or trims.

What About Interiors and Features?

Taking a step inside each model reveals a similar interior design focused on utility and comfort. You and your passengers can sit comfortably and take advantage of features like the 12V charging ports and Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ connectivity. The Mazda CX-50 has a more robust 8-speaker audio system compared to the 6-speaker audio of the Mazda CX-5, and both can be upgraded to feature Bose® Premium Sound. Both also get a 1 year free trial of services provided by the MyMazda app, a way for your smartphone to connect to your Mazda vehicle for tutorials, updates, reports and more. You can expect to stay connected with both the Mazda CX-5 and Mazda CX-50.

It’s not just comfort and connectivity where both models shine but utility too. They both come with a 10.25 in. multimedia color display that provides voice control, so you can stay focused while controlling the radio, GPS, voice calls and more. The Mazda CX-50 specifically comes with an LCD meter display, great for night time driving through Bradford Woods. Safety is also a high priority for both models, they share many features like Mazda Cruise Control with Stop and Go technology, blind spot monitoring, smart brake support and more. Overall, there are a few areas where the Mazda CX-50 pulls ahead, but both models provide a comfortable driving experience thanks to the cozy interior and cutting-edge technology.

How Do They Compare In Capability and Options?

It’s important to prioritize performance when choosing your next vehicle. Whether for handling the toughest terrain or cruising through Gibsonia, being able to rely on your SUV is essential. With that said, are there any notable differences in performance between the Mazda CX-5 and Mazda CX-50?

Both models feature a 2.5L direct-injection I-4 engine with 6-speed automatic transmission and i-ACTIV All-Wheel Drive. This provides both with up to 187 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque, great for handling all types of tasks and terrain. As for fuel economy, the Mazda CX-5 has an EPA-estimated Hwy/City mileage of 23/29 mpg versus the Mazda CX-50 with 25/31 mpg. The Mazda CX-50 is better suited for off-road driving thanks to the standard Mazda Intelligent Drive Select with Sport and Off-road Modes which only become available to the Mazda CX-5 on higher level trims. Because of this, the Mazda CX-50 could serve as a better choice depending on how important fuel economy is and whether you intend to drive off-road frequently.

There is one other area where the Mazda CX-50 reigns supreme: hybrid options. Unlike the Mazda CX-5, the Mazda CX-50 comes with both a standard gas and hybrid option. Considering the growing popularity of hybrids and electric vehicles, you may want to consider the Mazda CX-50 specifically to try out a more electrifying driving experience. If you have any questions about the benefits of electric vehicles and hybrids, feel free to ask us. Either way, you’re getting reliable performance with both the Mazda CX-5 and Mazda CX-50, but the better fuel economy and off-roading could make the Mazda CX-50 a more ideal choice.

Which Model Fits Your Budget?

Mazda is known for providing their signature lineup at an exceptional value and the Mazda CX-5 and Mazda CX-50 are no different. When it comes to overall value, the most affordable Mazda CX-5 is the 2.5 S trim which starts at $28,570 MSRP.

When comparing the two models with the lowest-priced shared trim (the 2.5 S Select), the Mazda CX-5 starts at $29,900 MSRP, narrowly beating the Mazda CX-50 which starts at $30,300 MSRP. Both come with a standard 3-year/36,000-mile warranty for new vehicles and 24-hour roadside assistance. Depending on your budget, that does give the Mazda CX-5 a small, but not insignificant edge.

#1 Cochran Mazda also frequently holds specials for new and pre-owned vehicles. There’s also our certified pre-owned program which offers vehicles that have undergone a 152-point inspection, receive 24/7 roadside assistance and a 7-year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty. If you have any questions related to cost or warranties, please feel free to contact us.

Should I Choose the Mazda CX-5 or the Mazda CX-50?

Whether you go with the Mazda CX-5 or Mazda CX-50, you’ll still get a reliable, compact crossover SUV. The choice largely comes down to whether you want the sportier Mazda CX-5 or the empowering Mazda CX-50.

The Mazda CX-5 has more trims, including a more affordable starting trim, and better on-road handling. The Mazda CX-50 has better fuel efficiency, more capable off-roading and the option to go hybrid if you’re interested. You should carefully consider your priorities and which vehicle better accommodates your wants and needs.

Whether you choose one of them, or decide you want to see the rest of our lineup, feel free to visit us at #1 Cochran Mazda. From McCandless to Bradford Woods and all across Western PA, drivers can always rely on the #1 Cochran family for all their automotive needs.