Latest News
2026 Kia EV9 Review2026 Mazda CX-50 Review
Mazda sharpens the CX-50 for 2026 with better pricing, more trims, and strong engine choices, blending trail-ready style with confident on-road manners.
Overview
The 2026 Mazda CX-50 is a compact SUV with standard all-wheel drive, available turbo and hybrid powertrains, and updated pricing. It emphasizes driving feel, efficiency, and light off-road capability.
Carsforsale.com Score
8.75/10
Powertrain
Score
9/10
Interior
Score
8.5/10
Technology
Score
8.25/10
Value
Score
8.75/10
2026 Mazda CX-50 Powertrain 9/10
The 2026 Mazda CX-50 offers three distinct powertrain options, each aimed at a different type of driver, while keeping all-wheel drive standard across the lineup.
The base setup uses a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. Power is routed through a 6-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive comes standard. Fuel economy is rated at 24 miles per gallon in the city and 30 miles per gallon on the highway, making this configuration a strong fit for daily commuting and longer road trips. When properly equipped, the base engine can tow up to 2,000 pounds, which is useful for small trailers or recreational gear.
Drivers looking for more strength can upgrade to the available 2.5L twin-turbo engine. Output jumps significantly to 227 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy drops slightly to 23 miles per gallon in the city and 29 on the highway, but towing capacity increases to a more capable 3,500 pounds. This version of the CX-50 is better suited for drivers who plan to tow regularly or prefer quicker acceleration without stepping into a larger SUV.
The hybrid option focuses on efficiency while retaining all-wheel traction. It pairs a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor system to produce a combined 219 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque. Power is delivered through a continuously variable transmission, and electronic all-wheel drive manages traction between the front and rear axles. Fuel economy improves to 29 miles per gallon in the city and 37 on the highway. Towing capacity is rated at 1,500 pounds, making this version best for drivers who prioritize fuel savings over hauling ability.
Across all trims, the CX-50 maintains a confident feel on the road. Steering is direct, the suspension feels well-controlled, and the standard all-wheel-drive system adds reassurance in poor weather or on loose surfaces. While it is not a dedicated off-road vehicle, the CX-50 balances comfort and capability better than most compact SUVs, especially when equipped with the turbo engine.
2026 Mazda CX-50 Interior 8.5/10
Inside, the 2026 Mazda CX-50 blends rugged intent with thoughtful comfort. All trims seat five passengers, and the cabin layout favors driver focus with clear sightlines and intuitive control placement.
Seat materials scale naturally through the lineup. Base trims start with half leatherette-trimmed seats, while higher trims upgrade to leather-trimmed seating. Upper trims add heated and ventilated front seats, and some configurations include heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel.
Rear-seat space is competitive for the class. Gas-powered trims provide 39.8 inches of rear legroom, offering comfortable accommodation for adult passengers. Hybrid models are slightly different in size, with rear legroom measuring 37.8 inches, which is tighter but still usable for most riders. Cargo capacity remains a strong point. Gas models provide 31.4 cu-ft of space behind the rear seats and expand to 56.3 cu-ft with the seats folded down. Hybrid trims trade a bit of space for efficiency, offering 29.2 cu-ft behind the rear seats, while still matching the 56.3 cu-ft maximum with the seats folded.
2026 Mazda CX-50 Technology 8.25/10
Every 2026 CX-50 comes equipped with a 10.25-inch center display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, along with Bluetooth connectivity and multiple USB-C ports. Available features include wireless phone charging, a head-up display, and a Bose premium audio system. Mazda keeps subscription requirements minimal, which helps with long-term usability.
Standard driver assistance features include adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking. These systems operate smoothly without feeling intrusive.
2026 Mazda CX-50 Value 8.75/10
The base trim, the 2.5 S Select, starts at $29,900. It includes standard all-wheel drive, a large infotainment display, wireless smartphone integration, and a full suite of safety features that make this a strong entry point.
The recommended trim, the 2.5 S Preferred, starts at $32,400. The Preferred trim adds heated front seats, power driver seat adjustment, a panoramic moonroof, and a power liftgate. It strikes the best balance between price and comfort.
The top trim, the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus, starts at $42,900. It features turbo power, leather seating, ventilated front seats, premium audio, and advanced driver aids. This trim is ideal for drivers who want performance and features in one package.
Compared with rivals like the Subaru Outback, the CX-50 stands out with standard all-wheel drive and stronger driving dynamics. Warranty coverage includes a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, with extended coverage for hybrid components.
Trims & Pricing
2026 Mazda CX-50 Final Score 8.75/10
The 2026 Mazda CX-50 continues to deliver one of the most engaging experiences in the compact SUV segment. Strong engine choices, standard all-wheel drive, and a well-balanced interior make it a compelling alternative to more conventional rivals. For drivers who want capability with personality, the CX-50 remains a confident pick.
