Mazda CX-50 vs CX-5: Which SUV is The Best for You?

Mazda CX-50 vs CX-5
FeatureMazda CX-50Mazda CX-5
DesignRugged, adventure-focused, sporty lookSleek, refined, modern, city-friendly
PerformanceOff-road capability, higher ground clearanceSmooth, comfortable city/highway driving
InteriorSporty, rugged, more cargo spaceLuxurious, soft, premium feel
TechnologyLatest infotainment, Off-Road ModeExcellent tech, focus on comfort
Fuel EconomySimilar to CX-5, efficient for off-roading24-26 mpg city, 30-32 mpg highway
Starting PriceAround $30,000Around $27,000
Best ForOutdoor adventures, rugged roadsCity driving, commuting, daily use

Hello friends! Today, I’m going to talk about something super exciting for anyone who loves cars or is thinking about getting a new one! We’re comparing two awesome SUVs from Mazda—the Mazda CX-50 vs CX-5. I know that picking a new car can be tricky, but don’t worry, I’ll break it down in simple terms and make it super easy to understand. Let’s dive right in!


Mazda CX-50 vs CX-5: What’s the Difference?

Okay, so before we go into all the details, let’s talk about the big differences between the Mazda CX-50 and the CX-5. Both of these SUVs are great in their own way, but they have some key differences that might help you figure out which one is perfect for you!

First off, the Mazda CX-5 is like the older sibling in Mazda’s SUV lineup. It’s been around for a while, and people love it because it’s a balanced SUV—it looks cool, it’s super comfortable, and it’s great for everyday driving. The Mazda CX-50, on the other hand, is newer and was made to be a bit more rugged, meaning it’s designed for people who want a car that’s more outdoorsy and adventure-ready!

In short: the CX-5 is a bit more about luxury and everyday life, while the CX-50 has a more sporty, tough vibe. So, if you’re someone who likes going camping or off-roading, the CX-50 might be calling your name, but if you’re all about comfort and city driving, the CX-5 could be your best buddy.


Design and Style: Which One Looks Cooler?

Alright, let’s talk about how these two cars look. Both the CX-50 and CX-5 have that sleek, classy Mazda design, but they do it in different ways.

Mazda CX-50 vs CX-5

The CX-5 is a bit more on the refined side. It’s got smoother lines, and it looks super modern and polished. If you’re driving around the city or parking at work, this car definitely has the “wow” factor. Plus, you can show off a bit with how stylish it is. It’s the car that’ll make people say, “Wow, that’s a good-looking SUV!”

Now, the CX-50—this one’s made to look tougher. It’s got a wider body, and it sits a bit higher off the ground, which gives it a more aggressive look. This one says, “I’m ready for an adventure!” If you’re someone who enjoys going on trips where you might drive on dirt roads or hit the mountains, the CX-50’s design fits that lifestyle better.

But don’t get me wrong, both SUVs are head-turners. The main difference is that CX-5 looks more “city-smart” while the CX-50 looks more “wild and free!”


Mazda CX-50 vs CX-5: Performance

Now, let’s get into how these two cars actually drive. This is where things get really interesting!

Both the CX-50 and the CX-5 come with similar engine options. They both offer a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, and if you want more power, they both have a turbocharged version. The engines in both SUVs are smooth and give you a solid boost of power when you need it.

But here’s where the CX-50 stands out: it’s built for more rugged terrain. So, while both cars are awesome on highways and around town, the CX-50 is better if you want to go off-road or tackle rougher roads. Mazda gave it a special driving mode called “Off-Road Mode,” which helps the car handle tricky surfaces like dirt, gravel, or snow. Plus, the CX-50 has a bit more ground clearance (how high the car is off the ground), which means it’s less likely to scrape when you’re driving on bumpy paths.

The CX-5 is more focused on giving you a smooth, comfortable drive. It’s still great in bad weather and handles well, but it’s more of a “stay on the pavement” kind of car. So, if you want to stick to city streets and highways, the CX-5 will feel just right. But if you like the idea of taking your SUV out for some off-road fun, the CX-50 wins this round!


Interior and Comfort: Cozy or Sporty?

When it comes to the inside of these two SUVs, both are super impressive. Mazda is known for making cars with luxurious, high-quality interiors, and that’s exactly what you get with the CX-50 and CX-5.

The CX-5 is a bit more focused on comfort. Inside, it feels like a premium space, with soft materials, plush seats, and a clean, sleek design. It’s really nice for long drives because the seats are so comfy, and everything is designed to make you feel relaxed. Plus, it’s super quiet inside, so even on busy roads, you won’t hear much noise from outside. It feels like a little bubble of calm!

The CX-50, while still very comfortable, has a bit more of a sporty feel inside. The seats are designed to hold you in place better, especially if you’re driving on curvy or rough roads. It’s a bit more rugged on the inside, but that’s what makes it fun! If you’re someone who likes the idea of having an SUV that feels adventurous, the CX-50’s interior vibe will match that energy.

Both cars have plenty of space for passengers and luggage, but the CX-50 has a bit more room in the trunk, which could come in handy for camping gear or sports equipment!


Mazda CX-50 vs CX-5: Technology and Features

Okay, here’s where both the CX-50 and CX-5 really shine—technology! Both SUVs come packed with features that make driving safer and more enjoyable.

Both cars come with Mazda’s i-Activsense safety suite, which is a fancy way of saying they have a lot of smart features that help you stay safe. This includes things like lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Whether you’re driving the CX-5 or the CX-50, you’ll feel super confident knowing these features have your back!

When it comes to infotainment (the screen and entertainment system in the car), both SUVs have an 8.8-inch display that you control with a knob in the center console. It’s not a touch screen, but it’s still really easy to use, and it comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which means you can connect your phone and use apps like Spotify or Google Maps on the go!

One thing to note is that the CX-50 has a newer version of Mazda’s infotainment system, so it might feel a bit more modern and snappy to use. But both cars are pretty equal when it comes to giving you top-notch tech features!


Fuel Economy: Which One Saves You More Gas?

If you’re thinking about how much you’ll spend on gas, here’s the good news: both the Mazda CX-50 and CX-5 have pretty similar fuel economy. The base engine in both cars gives you around 24-26 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and about 30-32 mpg on the highway. That’s pretty good for SUVs of this size!

The turbocharged versions will use a bit more gas, but they’re still not gas guzzlers. The CX-50 might have a slight edge here because it’s designed to be more efficient for off-road driving, but overall, neither of these cars will hurt your wallet too much when it comes to filling up the tank.


Pricing: How Much Do They Cost?

Now let’s talk about the price! Both the CX-50 and CX-5 are pretty affordable compared to other SUVs in their class, which is awesome because you get a lot of bang for your buck.

The CX-5 starts at around $27,000, which is a great price for all the features and comfort you get. The CX-50 is slightly more expensive, starting at around $30,000. But remember, the CX-50 is newer and designed to handle tougher terrains, so that extra cost makes sense if you’re someone who loves outdoor adventures.

If you want the fancier versions with more features, like the turbocharged engines or leather seats, both SUVs can go up in price, with fully-loaded models hitting the $40,000 range. But even then, you’re getting a lot for what you pay!


Mazda CX-50 vs CX-5: Which One Should You Choose?

Alright, so after going through all the details, you might still be wondering, “Which one should I choose?” Well, it really depends on what you need!

Mazda CX-50 vs CX-5
  • Choose the Mazda CX-5 if you want a stylish, comfortable SUV that’s perfect for everyday driving, commuting, and long road trips. If you like a little luxury and want something that feels premium without breaking the bank, the CX-5 is a solid choice!
  • Choose the Mazda CX-50 if you’re someone who loves adventure! If you plan on going off-road, camping, or just want a car that feels more rugged and outdoorsy, the CX-50 is made for you. It’s tougher, has more off-road capabilities, and still has all the comfort you need.

FAQ: Mazda CX-50 vs CX-5

1. What are the main differences between the Mazda CX-50 and CX-5?

The Mazda CX-50 is designed for adventure lovers, while the CX-5 focuses on everyday comfort and style. The CX-50 has a rugged, outdoorsy design with higher ground clearance and an off-road mode. It’s perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities like camping and exploring rough terrain. On the other hand, the CX-5 is sleek and refined, making it ideal for city driving or long highway trips. While both vehicles share similar engines and tech, the CX-50 has a sportier, more adventurous vibe, while the CX-5 feels more luxurious and comfortable for daily use.


2. Which SUV has better off-road capabilities?

If you’re looking for an SUV that can handle off-road conditions, the Mazda CX-50 is the clear winner. It’s equipped with Off-Road Mode, which adjusts how the car handles tough terrain like gravel, dirt, or snow, giving you confidence no matter where your adventure takes you. The higher ground clearance also helps in avoiding scrapes when driving over uneven surfaces. While the CX-5 can handle light off-road conditions and performs well in bad weather, the CX-50 was specifically built for outdoor adventures, making it the better choice for off-roading.


3. How does the interior of the CX-50 compare to the CX-5?

Both the Mazda CX-50 and CX-5 offer stunning interiors with high-quality materials and features, but they cater to different styles. The CX-5’s interior is focused on providing a plush, luxurious experience. Its seats are comfortable for long drives, and the quiet cabin adds to the relaxing atmosphere, perfect for city commutes. The CX-50’s interior is more rugged and sporty, with seats designed to keep you secure on bumpy roads. It’s built with adventure in mind, so while it’s still very comfortable, it feels more active and ready for whatever comes your way.


4. What’s the fuel economy like on the Mazda CX-50 vs CX-5?

Both the Mazda CX-50 and CX-5 deliver excellent fuel economy for SUVs in their class. On average, both models offer around 24-26 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 30-32 mpg on the highway. While these numbers may vary slightly depending on the engine and model you choose, both vehicles are fuel-efficient and won’t leave you worrying about constantly filling up. If you go for the turbocharged versions, the mpg might drop a little, but overall, both SUVs are designed to give you great mileage without compromising performance.


5. Which SUV offers better value for money, CX-50 or CX-5?

Both the Mazda CX-50 and CX-5 provide incredible value, but it depends on what you’re looking for. The CX-5 starts at around $27,000, offering a great balance of comfort, luxury, and advanced tech for an affordable price. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a stylish SUV for everyday use. The CX-50, starting around $30,000, is slightly more expensive but gives you added capabilities like off-road mode and a rugged design for adventure enthusiasts. If you’re all about exploring the great outdoors, the CX-50’s higher price tag is well worth it for the extra durability and features.


6. Which SUV is better for families, the CX-50 or CX-5?

Both the Mazda CX-50 and CX-5 are excellent options for families, but they serve different types of family lifestyles. The CX-5 is perfect for families looking for a safe, comfortable, and luxurious ride for everyday use. Its spacious interior, quiet cabin, and smooth handling make it great for family road trips or daily school runs. On the other hand, the CX-50 is ideal for adventurous families who love exploring nature, camping, or road-tripping through rougher terrain. It offers more cargo space for gear and handles off-road conditions with ease, making it perfect for family adventures.


7. Does the CX-50 have more cargo space than the CX-5?

Yes, the Mazda CX-50 does offer a bit more cargo space compared to the CX-5, making it a great choice if you need to haul more gear or equipment. The CX-50’s wider and more rugged design allows for extra room in the trunk, which is especially handy if you’re carrying camping gear, sports equipment, or luggage for a family trip. While the CX-5 still has a spacious interior and cargo area, the CX-50 was built with adventure in mind, giving it the edge when it comes to packing for longer trips or outdoor activities.


8. Which one has better technology features, the Mazda CX-50 or CX-5?

Both the Mazda CX-50 and CX-5 come with Mazda’s latest tech features, so you’ll be happy with either choice! Both SUVs are equipped with the i-Activsense safety suite, which includes helpful features like lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. When it comes to infotainment, both vehicles have an 8.8-inch display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so you can easily connect your phone. The CX-50 does have a newer version of Mazda’s system, so it might feel a bit more modern, but overall, both SUVs are packed with cutting-edge technology!


9. Which SUV is easier to drive in the city, CX-50 or CX-5?

If city driving is your priority, the Mazda CX-5 is the better option. It’s slightly smaller and more compact than the CX-50, making it easier to navigate through tight city streets and parking spaces. Its smooth ride, responsive steering, and quiet cabin also make it perfect for urban environments. The CX-50 is still great for city driving, but it’s built to be a bit more rugged and adventure-ready, which might feel like overkill if you’re just driving around town. So, for city life, the CX-5 feels a bit more at home, while the CX-50 shines on rougher roads.


10. How does the safety of the CX-50 compare to the CX-5?

Both the Mazda CX-50 and CX-5 are equipped with top-notch safety features, so you’ll feel secure in either SUV. Both come with Mazda’s i-Activsense safety system, which includes advanced features like lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. These features help you stay safe whether you’re driving through busy city streets or exploring rougher terrain. Because both vehicles share the same safety suite, there’s no major difference in their safety performance. Mazda has ensured that no matter which model you choose, your safety is a top priority!

Both the Mazda CX-50 and CX-5 are amazing SUVs, and you can’t go wrong with either. The CX-5 is perfect if you’re looking for something sleek, comfortable, and city-friendly, while the CX-50 is the ultimate SUV for those who crave adventure and a more rugged look.

Author

  • Alex Harper is a seasoned Product Analyst with over eight years of experience in researching and comparing consumer products across various categories. Specializing in home appliances, electronics, beauty and automotive, Alex dives deep into product specifications, user feedback, and industry trends to provide readers with honest and comprehensive reviews. When not exploring the latest gadgets, Alex enjoys attending trade shows and testing new technology firsthand.

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