MSRP: $30,300
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Overview
The 2025 Mazda CX-50 compact SUV blends rugged design with a more premium feel, giving it a distinct position in its class. Mazda builds this crossover on a longer, lower, and wider platform than the CX-5, which shapes both its stance and its driving character. Standard all-wheel drive comes across the lineup, and buyers choose from three powertrain options, including a new hybrid. With its upscale cabin materials, deft road manners, and outdoors-ready styling, the CX-50 targets drivers who want something more engaging than the usual mainstream choices.
What’s New for 2025?
The 2025 CX-50 introduces a hybrid powertrain for the first time. This setup pairs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors to deliver 219 combined horsepower. Mazda removes the standalone Turbo trim, although turbocharged engines remain on several trims. The i-Activsense safety suite continues to evolve while preserving the CX-50’s tougher personality.Â
All models include built-in Alexa capability, and the base 8.8-inch touchscreen is dropped in favor of the larger 10.25-inch one. The CX-50 Hybrid adds a red leather interior option. A 360-degree camera with a see-through view joins the options list, along with front cross-traffic alert.
Exterior
The Mazda CX-50 carries a purposeful, rugged look that clearly separates it from softer compact crossovers. Black lower-body cladding on the wheel arches and rocker panels reinforces its off-pavement intent. A wide grille flows into slim, angular headlights for a bold front-end design. Depending on trim, buyers choose features such as all-terrain tires, self-leveling adaptive headlights, and wheels sized up to 20 inches. The Meridian Edition stands out with exclusive hood graphics and specialized wheels that emphasize its trail-ready image.
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Interior
Inside, the CX-50 reflects Mazda’s push toward a more premium experience. The cabin uses high-quality materials with soft-touch surfaces and carefully finished details throughout. A driver-focused layout centers around a 10.25-inch infotainment display and a 7-inch digital gauge cluster, both supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims add leather-trimmed seating, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, a head-up display, and a panoramic moonroof. Cargo space measures 31.4 cu-ft behind the rear seats and expands to 56.3 cu-ft with the seats folded.
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Price Range and Best Value Trim
| Trim Level | Price |
| Base trim: 2.5 S Select | $30,300 |
| Top trim: 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus | $40,050 |
| Best value trim: 2.5 S Preferred | $31,650 |
The 2.5 S Preferred trim delivers the strongest balance of cost and features. For $1,350 more than the Select, it adds a power rear liftgate, an 8-way power driver seat, and three-level heated front seats. These upgrades noticeably improve daily comfort and convenience without pushing the 2025 Mazda CX-50’s price into higher premium territory.
2025 Mazda CX-50 Specs Overview
The 2025 Mazda CX-50 offers a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine as standard, while higher trims offer a more powerful turbocharged version, both exclusively offered with a 6-speed automatic. However, the Turbo engine produces 256 hp with 93 octane fuel; 227 hp with regular 87 octane. The CX-50 hybrid uses the Toyota-sourced A25A-FXS I4 electrified powertrain paired with a CVT.
Powertrain Options
| Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Transmission | Drivetrain |
| 2.5L Skyactiv-G NA I4 | 187 hp | 185 lb-ft | 6-Speed Auto | AWD |
| 2.5L Skyactiv-G Turbo I4 | 256 hp | 320 lb-ft | 6-Speed Auto | AWD |
| 2.5L Hybrid (NA I4 + Electric) | 219 hp | N/A | CVT | AWD |
Performance and 0-60 MPH
The turbocharged CX-50 accelerates to 60 mph in 7.0-7.2 seconds, placing it among the quicker options in the segment. The standard 2.5-liter engine focuses on smooth, predictable power delivery that suits daily driving and longer trips, but it’s appreciably slower, taking around 8.5 seconds to complete the sprint. The hybrid should squeak in below eight seconds.
Fuel Economy (MPG / MPGe)
| Engine | City | Highway | Combined |
| 2.5L NA I4 | 25 mpg | 31 mpg | 28 mpg |
| 2.5L Turbo I4 | 23 mpg | 29 mpg | 25 mpg |
| 2.5L Hybrid NA I4 | 39 mpg | 37 mpg | 38 mpg |
AWD/4WD System Overview
Mazda equips every CX-50 with its i-Activ AWD system. The Mi-Drive selector includes Normal, Sport, and Off-Road modes to fine-tune throttle response and traction. Turbo models also include a Towing mode, supporting loads up to 3,500 pounds.
Ground Clearance
With 8.6 inches of ground clearance, the CX-50 confidently handles gravel roads and moderate trails, exceeding the clearance of many compact SUV rivals.
Warranty
Mazda includes warranty coverage that matches industry standards and protects owners during early ownership.
| Coverage Type | Duration |
| Basic/Bumper-to-Bumper | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
| Powertrain | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
| Corrosion/Rust | 5 years / unlimited miles |
| Roadside Assistance | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Upscale interior materials
- Engaging handling and responsive steering
- Hybrid option delivers strong fuel efficiency
Cons:
- Pricing sits above most direct competitors
- Cargo space trails segment leaders
- Infotainment system requires adjustment
Verdict
The CX-50 stands out as a semi-premium alternative to mainstream compact SUVs. It combines refined interior quality, confident handling, and genuine outdoor capability in a way that feels cohesive. The new hybrid powertrain improves efficiency, while the turbocharged option continues to satisfy drivers who value performance. Cargo space remains modest for the class, and the suspension favors control over softness, but the trade-off rewards those who enjoy an engaging drive. Buyers focused on efficiency gravitate toward the Hybrid Preferred trim, while those seeking maximum performance and visual flair find the Turbo Meridian Edition delivers the most complete expression of the 2025 Mazda CX-50.
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Competitors
About the author
Cobus F. Potgieter
Reviews and Features Editor