When it comes to Mazda crossover SUVs, the Mazda CX-5 and the Mazda CX-50 are excellent choices. If you’re having a hard time choosing between the two, we understand! Both Mazda SUVs have luxuriously appointed interiors, ample space for passengers and cargo, fuel-efficient engines, and advanced safety and technology features. So which compact SUV wins the sibling rivalry battle? We’re comparing the Mazda CX-5 vs CX-50 so you can determine which is the best fit for your drives around Richmond or Ashland.
The Mazda CX-5 price starts at $28,770 MSRP for the base trim. There are eight available trim levels.
The Mazda CX-50 price starts at $30,500 MSRP for the base trim. There are seven available trim levels.
| Mazda CX-5 | Mazda CX-50 | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | SKYACTIV®-G 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine | SKYACTIV®-G 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine |
| EPA-Estimated Gas Mileage | 23 mpg/city and 29 mpg/highway | 25 mpg/city and 31 mpg/highway |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 187 hp |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft | 185 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | i-ACTIV AWD® | i-ACTIV AWD® |
| Towing Capacity | 2,000 pounds | 2,000-3,500 pounds |
| Fuel Capacity | 15.3 gallons | 14.5 gallons |
A standard 187-hp SKYACTIV®-G 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine powers both the Mazda CX-5 and the Mazda CX-50. It’s paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. With the base engine, these compact SUVs have comparable fuel efficiency. The Mazda CX-5 and the Mazda CX-50 each have turbo trim levels with a SKYACTIV®-G dynamic pressure turbocharged 2.5-liter engine that generates 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque.
Both crossover SUVs have available Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive). By choosing between different drive modes, you ensure you have the right balance of traction and power for optimal performance. The Mazda CX-5 offers M-Drive with three drive modes: Normal, Sport, and Off-Road. The Mazda CX-50 offers Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing drive modes.
Both Mazda crossover SUVs have standard i-Activ AWD® (all-wheel drive). This AWD system is always engaged and monitoring data in real-time to automatically control and adjust torque distribution for proper handling on all road types.
If you plan to bring a boat, jet skis, camper, or trailer, the Mazda CX-50 offers a higher maximum towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. The Mazda CX-5 towing capacity is 2,000 pounds when properly equipped.
The Mazda CX-50 is the only one of the two that’s always available in a hybrid model.
| Mazda CX-5 | Mazda CX-50 | |
|---|---|---|
| Seating | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Volume | 133.6 cubic feet | 100.3 cubic feet |
| Front Headroom | 39.7 inches | 39.1 inches |
| Front Legroom | 41 inches | 41.7 inches |
| Rear Headroom | 39 inches | 38.6 inches |
| Rear Legroom | 39.6 inches | 39.8 inches |
| Cargo Space | 29.1-59.3 cubic feet | 31.4-56.3 cubic feet |
Both crossover SUVs have two rows of seating for up to five people. The Mazda CX-5 features cloth-trimmed, leatherette-trimmed, or leather-trimmed seats, and the Mazda CX-50 has leatherette-trimmed or leather-trimmed seats.
Higher trim levels of the Mazda CX-5 offer heated and ventilated front seats and heated rear seats. Higher trims of the Mazda CX-50 have heated and ventilated front seats, and this Mazda SUV offers a panoramic moonroof.
The Mazda CX-5 and the Mazda CX-50 are equipped with the Mazda Connect™ infotainment system. This provides access to Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, audio, and more via a 10.25-inch screen full-color display. In the Mazda CX-50 wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard. The Mazda CX-5 has an available 10-speaker Bose® sound system, and the Mazda CX-50 has an available 12-speaker Bose® sound system.
Both Mazda SUVs provide ample cargo space for everything from groceries and backpacks to luggage and sports equipment. The Mazda CX-50 offers a little more space behind the second row, but the Mazda CX-5 has slightly more storage when the rear seats are folded.
Mazda takes vehicle safety very seriously, and that’s evident in their vehicles. These compact SUVs have the accolades to back it up. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 and the 2025 Mazda CX-50 both earned 5-star overall safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Mazda CX-50 is also an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick+.
These Mazda crossover SUVs both have the i-Activsense® suite of standard and available safety features. Some of the standard vehicle safety features found in both vehicles include:
After comparing the Mazda CX-5 vs CX-50, it’s easy to see that both crossover SUVs are excellent options if you’re shopping for a two-row SUV. Choosing between the two is ultimately a matter of preference and needs. The good news is you can’t go wrong with leasing or financing a Mazda SUV!
Both Mazda SUVs are comparably priced with well-appointed interiors, refined exteriors, and strong performances. They’re both also Consumer Reports recommended vehicles. The Mazda CX-5 is ideal for city living and driving mainly on paved roads. The Mazda CX-50 offers the versatility of on and off-road driving. If you need a commuter vehicle, the Mazda CX-5 is right for you. If you want a compact SUV that can handle a variety of terrains and outdoor adventures, consider the Mazda CX-50.
Whitten Brothers Mazda is a premier Mazda dealership in Richmond, VA with an extensive inventory of new Mazda SUVs in stock. Now that you’ve compared the Mazda CX-5 vs CX-50 and figured out which compact SUV is best suited to your needs, contact us to schedule a visit to our showroom.
Our Sales Advocates will be happy to take you on a test drive in or both of these Mazda SUVs and answer any additional questions. With competitive, transparent pricing and a customer-focused approach, car shopping with us is easy! When you’re ready to buy, you can trade in your current vehicle, and we can help you arrange your auto loan or lease. We look forward to helping you find your next Mazda crossover SUV!
