Mazda CX-5 vs Mazda CX-50 - How Do They Compare?

The Mazda brand remains consistent with the performance options all their SUVs currently have. The Mazda CX-50 is no exception, containing a 187-horsepower SKYACTIV engine on its base trims, with a 250-horsepower Dynamic Pressure Turbo SKYACTIV performance available on higher trims. These engine options are shared with the Mazda CX-5. However, the CX-50 has a slight advantage in combined fuel economy, thanks to its 15.8-gallon fuel tank capacity. The CX-5's fuel tank can hold up to 15.3 gallons, though its city/highway fuel economy remains unchanged and evenly-matched with the CX-50's.

The Mazda CX-50 also has the distinct advantage of standard all-wheel-drive. The i-ACTIV AWD system is more intuitive than systems of competing brands and optimizes multiple systems of the vehicle electronically, like the engine control unit, vehicle dynamics control, brakes, and suspension, to provide the best on-demand traction. This Mazda-exclusive AWD system is standard on the highest trim of the Mazda CX-5 and available on all other trims, while front-wheel drive comes standard.

As a brand-new SUV, the Mazda CX-50 comes standard with a few extras that will be introduced to future CX-5 models but are not available on this SUV currently. Such features include an eight-speaker sound system, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, LED brake lights, and 60/40 split-folding rear seats. The CX-5 currently has 20/40/20 split folding rear seats, halogen brake lights, wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a standard four-speaker sound system.