Mazda gives you two excellent choices in the compact SUV segment: the 2025 Mazda CX-50 and the 2025 Mazda CX-5. At first glance, they may seem similar in size, price, and features — but each has its own unique personality. The CX-5 gives you a refined and classic driving experience, while the CX-50 leans more toward adventure with a rugged edge.
At John Kennedy Mazda Pottstown, we know that both options are strong contenders. That’s why we’ve identified the key differences between the Mazda CX-5 and CX-50 to help you choose.
Engines, Power, and Efficiency
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 and CX-50 may share engines, but each has its own style. Both come with a 187-horsepower 2.5-liter I-4 engine, which is great for daily driving. If you want more power, the turbocharged version boosts that to 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel. Both engines come with a six-speed automatic transmission to keep the ride smooth.
There’s also a CX-50 hybrid model available, something the CX-5 doesn’t have. It uses a 2.5-liter gas engine and three electric motors, generating 219 horsepower. This setup provides improved fuel efficiency, making it a great option if you take long drives or want better efficiency and a more sustainable option.
The fuel economy is close for the gas models. The base versions get about 28 mpg combined, while the turbo models use slightly more fuel. However, the Mazda CX-50 Hybrid gas mileage is the best, rated at 38 mpg combined.
If you need tow capabilities, the CX-50 is the stronger choice. With the turbo engine, it can pull 3,500 pounds, which is perfect for small trailers. The CX-5, no matter the engine, is limited to 2,000 pounds, while the CX-50 Hybrid tows the least at 1,500 pounds.
Both SUVs offer a mix of power and efficiency. When you compare the Mazda CX-5 and CX-50, you’ll find that the CX-5 is great for everyday use, while the CX-50 adds an adventure angle and a fuel-saving hybrid option.
Exterior and Design
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 and CX-50 have very different looks. The CX-5 is sleek and polished, made for city streets, while the CX-50 is bold and rugged, ready to tackle the outdoors.
The CX-5 is comparatively smaller at 179.1 inches long and 72.5 inches wide, but it stands taller at 65.3 inches, giving it a balanced shape. The CX-50 is longer and wider, at 185.8 inches long and 75.2 inches wide, but it sits lower at 63.5 inches for a sportier look.
Ground clearance is what really sets them apart. The CX-5 has 7.5 inches, ideal for city driving. Meanwhile, the CX-50’s ground clearance is 8.6 inches, which is better for off-road trips.
Both come with stylish wheels. The CX-5 starts with 17-inch wheels, with 19-inch options. The CX-50, meanwhile, comes with 18-inch wheels, with 20-inch wheels available for a stronger look.
Mazda SUV Interior: Tech and Comfort
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 and CX-50 both offer comfortable, luxurious cabins, but they have different styles. The CX-5 leans toward luxury, with premium materials and available nappa leather in higher trims. It also has genuine wood trim, adding a touch of elegance. Made for adventure, the CX-50 uses durable, water-resistant materials perfect for handling the outdoors. You also get dual-zone climate control and a panoramic sunroof in both models.
Both SUVs seat five passengers and have similar space, but the CX-5 feels a bit more open. It has more headroom, while the CX-50’s legroom is more for the rear seat. Cargo space is nearly the same, though the CX-5 offers more when the seats are folded. However, the CX-50 provides extra cargo storage solutions, making it more versatile for outdoor gear.
Technology is a strong point for both. Each comes with a 10.25-inch infotainment display, Mazda Connect, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a digital instrument panel. The CX-50 adds off-road navigation enhancements, making it more useful for off-roading trips.
The CX-5 is the better choice if you want luxury and a more spacious feel. The CX-50 suits those who prefer a rugged design with practical features.
Safety Features and Ratings
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 and CX-50 both offer excellent safety features. Both have Mazda’s i-Activsense suite, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alerts. These technologies keep you aware of your surroundings and massively decrease the chances of an accident.
The CX-50 adds extra safety features for adventure, including off-road traction assist, hill-descent control, and special drive modes for off-road and towing. These features give it more stability on rough surfaces.
Both SUVs have been tested for safety and earned a five-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. No matter which one you pick, you’ll be driving home in a safe vehicle.
Road Capabilities
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 and CX-50 handle different road conditions with quite an ease. The CX-5 is smooth and comfortable, which makes it ideal for city roads and highways. And as we established above, the CX-50 is a complete package for adventure, which is ready for rougher paths.
The CX-50’s higher ground clearance at 8.3 inches and built-in off-roading technologies make it great for uneven roads. It also offers the Meridian Edition, which comes with all-terrain tires and a tougher look.
Mazda SUV Pricing
When it comes to the new Mazda CX-5 and CX-50 prices, the CX-5 costs less to start. It begins at an MSRP of $28,770, while the Mazda CX-50 starts at $30,500. This is because the CX-5 starts with the 2.5 S trim, which has fewer features. The CX-50 starts with the 2.5 S Select, which comes with more standard equipment. But overall, both have similar prices across most trims. The CX-50 also has a hybrid model, which costs more but offers better fuel efficiency.
That being said, both SUVs give you great value.
Test-Drive a New Mazda in Pottstown, Pennsylvania
Choosing between the 2025 Mazda CX-5 vs. CX-50 comes down to your lifestyle. Both offer style, comfort, and great performance. The CX-5 is perfect for city driving, while the CX-50 adds adventure-ready features. The best way to decide is to take them for a ride. Contact us today to book a test-drive for both of these models. Come feel the difference and explore our inventory. With our variety of financing options, you won’t find it difficult to take home the right vehicle for your needs.
Image from mazdausa.com
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