CX-5 Vs. CX-50: Comparing Mazda Compact SUVs
Choosing between Mazda’s two compact SUV models can be challenging, since both offer benefits, so that’s why we’ve compiled a detailed comparison review of the CX-5 vs. CX-50.
At first glance, it might seem like there’s not much separating these two Mazda compact crossover SUVs. But the closer you look, it becomes clearer that both models offer distinctive character — and why both of these compact CUVs should continue to be sold alongside each other in Mazda’s lineup well into the future.
We’ll be comparing the Mazda CX-5 vs. CX-50 in key areas like size and dimensions, engine specs and performance, design elements, interior technologies, and safety systems. That way, if you’re shopping for a compact SUV like these two Mazda models, you’ll have an easier time selecting your favorite.
Let’s get started. Stick around until the end to find out which Mazda compact crossover SUV we prefer and why.
What’s New: Mazda CX-50 Vs. CX-5
First things first, we should cover the latest updates and upgrades for these Mazda models. Both of these SUVs are largely carryover models for 2024, with only subtle tweaks made to their lineups. However, the aging Mazda CX-5 offers the greatest changes for the new year, with the addition of a new trim level, complete with a distinctive exterior and interior color combination.
The 2024 Mazda CX-5 changes include the new CX-5 Carbon Turbo trim, highlighted by a Zircon Sand Metallic exterior matched with a Terracotta leather interior. You’ll find most other elements of the Mazda CX-5 and CX-50 models remain the same for 2024.
Mazda CX-5 Vs. Mazda CX-50 Specs
A 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G inline four-cylinder engine powers the new Mazda CX-50 and CX-5 SUVs, producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque in both models. A responsive and smooth-shifting Skyactiv-Drive six-speed automatic transmission and proactive i-Activ AWD system are also standard equipment.
Comparing the Mazda CX-5 vs. CX-50 towing capacity with the standard naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine, we find that both SUVs are rated to tow up to 2,000 pounds.
As expected, peak fuel economy comes with their naturally aspirated engines. There’s no difference in the Mazda CX-5 vs. CX-50 MPG ratings when comparably equipped with the Skyactiv-G non-turbo 2.5-liter engine. These Mazda crossover SUVs are equally efficient, both returning an EPA-estimated 24 city and 30 highway MPG rating.
Still, you should be able to go a bit farther in the 2023 Mazda CX-50 on a single tank of gas, since it is equipped with a slightly larger fuel tank than the CX-5, at 15.9 gallons compared to 15.3 gallons.
If you’re looking for maximum performance and thrills within either Mazda compact SUV lineup, you’ll want the available 2.5-liter turbo engine. The turbocharged variant of Mazda’s 2.5-liter inline-four engine offered under the hood of the CX-50 and CX-5 SUVs develops 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque on regular unleaded fuel, or up to 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque when burning premium 91-octane fuel.
The Mazda CX-50 is typically less than 100 pounds heavier than a comparably equipped CX-5, so there’s not much difference in acceleration. The CX-50 Turbo 0-60 time of about 6.6 seconds is only a few ticks behind the CX-5 Turbo 0-60 time, so there’s not much separating these turbocharged SUVs’ performance capabilities.
CX-5 Vs. CX-50 Dimensions & Interior
Our Mazda CX-5 vs. CX-50 comparison wouldn’t be complete without addressing the differences in dimensions and overall size of these similar models. After all, that’s likely to be top of mind for SUV buyers cross-shopping these new or pre-owned models.
The Mazda CX-50 feels bigger, measuring 5.7 inches longer than the CX-5. It also rides on a longer wheelbase, measuring 110.8 inches compared to the CX-5 SUV’s 106.2-inch wheelbase.
However, the latter is a bit taller and wider than the CX-50. So the Mazda CX-5 might feel more maneuverable in tight spots if you test drive them back to back.
How about the CX-50 vs. CX-5 interior dimensions, including passenger space, and cargo capacity?
Comparing the CX-5 vs. CX-50 cargo space, you’ll get 31.4 cubic feet for cargo behind the larger CX-50’s second-row seating. That’s a bit more than the Mazda CX-5, at 29.1 cubic feet of standard cargo volume.
However, the slightly smaller Mazda CX-5 comes out on top for maximum cargo space, with 59.3 cubic feet compared to 56.3 cubic feet for the CX-50. The Mazda CX-5 interior also boasts 103.6 cubic feet of passenger volume, topping the 100.3 cubic feet in the CX-50.
One often overlooked distinction between the Mazda CX-50 and CX-5 models lies in their second-row seating.
The CX-5 sports a 40/20/40 split-folding second row more commonly found on luxury models, while the CX-50 utilizes the more common 60/40 split for its second row. It might not matter much if you don’t plan on transporting long, narrow items like skis or 2x4s in your Mazda SUV, but it’s something to keep in mind if interior flexibility and cargo space are top of mind.
Other Mazda CX-5 vs. CX-50 interior measurements like front and rear head room, leg room, shoulder room, and hip room are quite similar, with neither model taking a sizeable lead.
But let’s take a closer look to see which model comes out on top in various dimensions and specs:
Difference Between CX-5 & CX-50: By the Numbers
| Mazda CX-5 | Mazda CX-50 | |
| Front head room (in.) | 39.3 | 38.6 |
| Rear head room (in.) | 39 | 37.5 |
| Front shoulder room (in.) | 57.1 | 55.9 |
| Rear shoulder room (in.) | 54.8 | 53.6 |
| Front hip room (in.) | 55.2 | 53.6 |
| Rear hip room (in.) | 55.3 | 52.1 |
| Front leg room (in.) | 41 | 41.7 |
| Rear leg room (in.) | 39.6 | 39.8 |
| Cargo space (cu. ft.) | 30 | 31.4 |
| Max cargo volume (cu. ft.) | 59.3 | 56.3 |
| Second-row seat | 40/20/40 split | 60/40 split |
| Passenger volume (cu. ft.) | 103.6 | 100.3 |
| Wheelbase (in.) | 106.2 | 110.8 |
| Length (in.) | 180.1 | 185.8 |
| Width with mirrors (in.) | 83.3 | 80.8 |
| Height (in.) | 66.1 – 66.3 | 63.5 – 63.9 |
| Ground clearance (in.) | 7.6 – 7.9 | 8.3 – 8.6 |
Plentiful Premium Trims & Colors to Choose From
With the introduction of the new 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo, both the 2024 CX-5 and CX-50 models boast eight distinct trims.
Comparing the 2024 Mazda CX-50 vs. CX-5 trim levels, you’ll find that both models start with a 2.5 S Select trim, followed by the 2.5 S Preferred. But after the first two trims, that’s where these models go separate ways with alternative editions.
The 2024 Mazda CX-5 trims include the:
- CX-5 2.5 S Select
- CX-5 2.5 S Preferred
- CX-5 2.5 S Carbon Edition
- CX-5 2.5 S Premium
- CX-5 2.5 S Premium Plus
- CX-5 2.5 Carbon Turbo
- CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium
- CX-5 2.5 Turbo Signature
The new 2024 CX-5 Carbon Turbo trim shares some similarities to the CX-50 SUV’s distinctive 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition. And the range-topping CX-5 2.5 Turbo Signature trim is a carryover from the CX-5 SUV’s previous trim lineup that also included popular editions like the Grand Touring and Grand Touring Reserve.
The eight editions that make up the 2024 Mazda CX-50 trim lineup include the:
- CX-50 2.5 S Select
- CX-50 2.5 S Preferred
- CX-50 2.5 S Premium
- CX-50 2.5 S Premium Plus
- CX-50 2.5 Turbo
- CX-50 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition
- CX-50 2.5 Turbo Premium
- CX-50 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus
Shop the Mazda CX-5 vs. CX-50, and you’ll find these Mazda models offered in a nearly identical lineup of exterior colors, including favorites like Machine Gray Metallic, Soul Red Crystal Metallic, and Polymetal Gray Metallic.
However, their lightest hues differ. The 2024 CX-5 offers Rhodium White Metallic as its lightest shade, while the 2024 CX-50 wears Wind Chill Pearl.
Only the new Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo and CX-50 Turbo Meridian Edition can be optioned with a Zircon Sand Metallic exterior and Terracotta leather interior.
Both Loaded With Mazda Safety & Tech Features
Get into either a new Mazda CX-50 or a CX-5, and you’ll gain a comprehensive suite of active safety and driver assistance technologies called i-Activsense.
There’s little in the way of differences between CX-5 and CX-50 safety features, as both models boast:
- Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go
- Lane Departure Warning
- Lane-Keep Assist
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Smart Braking System
- Adaptive Front-Lighting System
- Driver Attention Alert
For enhanced driver aids and safety systems, consider an upper trim level of either Mazda SUV to find a Mazda CX-5 or CX-50 equipped with:
- Active Driving Display
- 360-degree View Monitor
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Blind Spot Assist
- Traffic Jam Assist
On the tech front, these SUVs come similarly equipped, but the newer CX-50 gains some advantages, with more generous equipment in some areas. For instance, it’s offered with more standard and available speakers than the CX-5.
The CX-50 offers a standard eight-speaker or available 12-speaker Bose premium audio system, while the CX-5 gets six speakers as standard, and its Bose premium audio boasts 10 speakers. Both models get a 10.25-inch digital display paired with the Mazda Connect infotainment system.
Design & Persona: Mazda CX-5 Vs. Mazda CX-50
Do you prefer the styling of a sleek and sporty crossover or an all-terrain and off-road SUV? If image and aesthetics matter to you, then your answer to this question might well determine which model you prefer in the Mazda CX-50 vs. Mazda CX-5 debate.
It’s one of the main factors that made our decision for our favorite when comparing the Mazda CX-5 vs. Mazda CX-50, which just goes to show you how little separates these two, as they’re both fine examples of compact SUVs.
If you tend to gravitate toward SUVs from the likes of Subaru and Jeep, or even Toyota TRD models, you’ll likely prefer the new, more rugged and chiseled Mazda CX-50 over the sleeker CX-5.
The newer Mazda CX-50 interior design feels more fresh and updated compared to the gracefully aging Mazda CX-5 interior design, but not necessarily more premium.
Our Take on the CX-50 Vs. CX-5 Comparison & Debate
Mazda has built a sterling reputation for producing small cars that prioritize the on-road driving experience, including iconic sports cars that need no introduction. Mazda’s engineering prowess and commitment to driving dynamics have inspired every Mazda crossover and SUV, and it shows, with both the CX-5 and CX-50 enjoying rave reviews for how they drive.
So, which Mazda compact SUV do we prefer?
We’re still partial to the Mazda CX-5, but the CX-50 comes in right behind in this tight race. Let us tell you why.
With its newer platform, the Mazda CX-50 holds its own in on-road agility, handling, and driving feel. In fact, plenty of people even prefer the new CX-50’s driving dynamics to the more decorated Mazda model, the CX-5.
Still, there’s one of these two compact SUVs that shares a clearer, more direct lineage with sporty Mazda cars that came before it, and that’s the well-balanced Mazda CX-5. The first-gen CX-5 debuted Mazda’s Kodo design philosophy, which has influenced Mazda cars since, including models like the MX-5 Miata ND.
As long-time fans of Mazda sports cars, we simply prefer the sleeker, on-road design language of the CX-5 to the more rugged styling of the CX-50.
Don’t get us wrong. There’s certainly a substantial market for more adventurous, all-terrain-styled SUVs like the Mazda CX-50 that cater to outdoor enthusiasts.
In short, the CX-5 just looks and feels more like the Mazda we know and love, while the CX-50 is a new, more rugged design direction that we think the brand should continue to pursue in limited models.
There seems to be room for both models in the Mazda lineup going forward, as they often bring different buyers to the brand.
We plan to cover in more detail why Mazda should keep the CX-5 in its lineup for the long term even as it transitions to its new two-digit model naming structure, but that’s our two cents on the subject for now.
Final Thoughts: Differences Between CX-50 & CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 is clearly the more popular option, as it outsells the CX-50 and has been the automaker’s top-selling global model for many years, dating back to its first generation that was sold from around 2013 to 2016. It’s also the first vehicle to pair Mazda’s Skyactiv technologies with its Kodo design language, inspiring every Mazda vehicle since, including the CX-50.
The newcomer Mazda CX-50 is a strong contender, one that generally caters to a slightly different SUV shopper, one who prefers a more rugged, all-terrain exterior.
But there’s also some cross-shopping between these two models for obvious reasons. They both offer the same powertrains and many of the same Mazda technologies, and their dimensions are quite similar, too.
Mazda builds two of the best compact SUVs you can buy. So which would you drive?
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
Never miss a Mazda when you sign up for our email list:
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between Mazda CX-5 and CX-50 SUV models?
One of the main differences between the CX-5 and CX-50 models is their size and dimensions. The Mazda CX-50 is longer by 5.7 inches, but the CX-5 is a bit wider and taller, so these two Mazda compact SUVs feel different when you’re behind the wheel. The CX-5 has greater passenger volume and maximum cargo space. The CX-50 features a more rugged, adventurous exterior design than the sleek and sporty CX-5.
Where is the Mazda CX-5 made?
The Mazda CX-5 is made at Mazda’s principal manufacturing facility, the Ujina plant in Hiroshima, Japan, where it has been assembled since this model debuted in 2012. To meet the high demand for this popular compact crossover SUV, Mazda has since expanded production of the CX-5, also building it at its Hofu plant west of Hiroshima. The Ujina plant remains the main CX-5 production facility.
Where is the Mazda CX-50 made?
The Mazda CX-50 is made at the Mazda Toyota Manufacturing plant in Huntsville, AL. The CX-50 is the first Mazda model to be made at the automaker’s joint manufacturing facility with Toyota. Mazda started production of the CX-50 at the MTM facility in January 2022, where the SUV is built alongside the Toyota Corolla Cross. The new Mazda CX-50 Hybrid model will also be made at MTM.
Does the Mazda CX-50 replace the Mazda CX-5?
Mazda has not announced the CX-50 as the replacement for the CX-5, although there has been speculation of the sort. Given that the CX-5 is the brand’s top-selling SUV globally and it differs from the more rugged CX-50, you can expect the popular Mazda CX-5 model to live on, with a third generation of this SUV to arrive soon, likely around 2026.
Which is better, the Mazda CX-5 or CX-50?
Neither model is better than the other when comparing the 2024 Mazda CX-5 vs. 2024 Mazda CX-50. Instead, they complement each other as two similarly sized Mazda compact SUVs that often attract slightly different buyers. You might find the Mazda CX-50 is better for you if you aspire to an adventurous, outdoor lifestyle and want your SUV to match. For others, though, the CX-5 might be the better SUV option.
Which is bigger, the Mazda CX-50 or CX-5?
The Mazda CX-50 is longer than the CX-5. Comparing the CX-50 vs. CX-5 size, the rugged and adventurous CX-50 model is 5.7 inches longer, but the Mazda CX-5 is taller and wider and has an additional three cubic feet of maximum cargo space than the CX-50. So, while the CX-50 might look larger on the outside, inside, they’re similarly sized.