As you consider purchasing a Mazda CX-50, you’ll want to weigh its strengths and weaknesses. On one hand, this compact SUV offers a fun driving experience, a comfortable interior, and decent fuel economy.
On the other hand, it falls short on legroom, cargo space, and value rating. With prices ranging from $30,300 to over $37,400, you’ll need to determine which model year best fits your budget and preferences. Let’s take a closer look at the best and worst years of the Mazda CX-50.
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Key Takeaways
- Since the Mazda CX-50 is a new model, there are no “best” or “worst” years, as it has only been available since 2022.
- The CX-50’s subpar value rating in the compact SUV segment may make it less desirable in certain model years.
- Fuel economy estimates are decent, but not exceptional, which may impact the CX-50’s overall value.
- The top trim’s MSRP exceeding $37,400 may make it less attractive in certain model years.
- The lack of backseat legroom and limited cargo space may be a drawback for some buyers, regardless of the model year.
Cost and Value
When considering the cost and value of the Mazda CX-50, you’ll find that it’s one of the pricier options available.
The base price starts at around $30,300, and the top trim’s MSRP exceeds $37,400.
You’ll pay an estimated annual fuel cost of $1,950, assuming a fuel economy of 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
However, Edmunds suggests you can save up to $1,978 off the MSRP for the Hybrid Premium Plus trim.
Unfortunately, the CX-50 has a subpar value rating in the compact SUV segment, making it a costly choice.
Design and Features
As you step inside the Mazda CX-50, you’ll notice a thoughtful interior space layout that makes the most of its compact dimensions.
Premium materials are used throughout, giving the cabin a refined feel, and the Commander Knob controls are intuitive and easy to use.
These design elements work together to create a driving environment that’s both functional and enjoyable.
Interior Space Layout
The CX-50’s interior space layout is thoughtfully designed to provide a comfortable and practical environment for drivers and passengers alike. You’ll appreciate the rear doors that open extra wide, making it easier to get in and out. The front seat backs are soft, allowing extra room for long legs.
| Interior Space | Description | Measurement |
|---|---|---|
| Cargo Space | Behind rear seats | 31.4 cubic feet |
| Rear Seat Entry | Wide-opening doors | N/A |
| Front Seat Legroom | Soft seat backs | N/A |
| Overall Height | Lower than competitors | N/A |
| Trail Readiness | Attractive sheetmetal | N/A |
Premium Materials Used
You’ll appreciate the attention to detail inside the CX-50, where premium materials used throughout the cabin exceed expectations.
Mazda’s focus on luxury doesn’t stop at high-end trims; even standard models boast soft-touch surfaces and an upscale ambiance.
The CX-50’s interior feels more luxurious than its price tag might suggest, thanks to premium materials and attention to detail.
With features like a 10.25-inch display and wireless Apple CarPlay, the cabin experience is augmented, making the CX-50’s interior a standout in its class, with a sophisticated atmosphere that’s enhanced.
Commander Knob Controls
This innovative control interface is thoughtfully positioned within arm’s reach of the center console, providing effortless access to the CX-50’s systems. You’ll appreciate the Commander knob’s intuitive design, making it easy to navigate the infotainment interface, Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, and drive modes.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Commander Knob | Controls infotainment interface |
| Touch-capable Screen | Complements Commander control knobs |
| Center Console | Easy access to CX-50’s systems |
| Drive Modes | Seamlessly switch between modes |
Performance and Safety
Behind the wheel of the 2025, you’ll experience a pleasing ride and handling, with a sporty feel – but be prepared for a rougher ride quality if you opt for the 20-inch wheels.
The turbo engine gives you a fun driving experience, especially on the highway.
Adaptive cruise control helps you navigate road imperfections, while transmission shifts are smooth.
Despite the cargo area being surprisingly spacious, the ride can get bumpy.
As a standard driver, you’ll appreciate the emphasis on safety, with a 5-star rating and features like Blind Spot Monitoring and Lane Departure Warning.
Pros, Cons, and Reliability
As you consider the Mazda CX-50, you’ll appreciate its fun driving experience and comfortable interior features, including a surprising amount of trunk space.
However, you should also be aware of some drawbacks, such as the lack of backseat leg room.
Fun Driving Experience
You’ll appreciate the CX-50’s fun driving experience, thanks to its pleasing balance of ride comfort and handling agility.
In the Turbo trim, you’ll enjoy Sport mode, which takes advantage of the turbocharged engine’s 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque.
With accurate steering, you’ll feel connected to the road, even during low-speed maneuvering.
The suspension is firm, but body roll is minimal, making the CX-50 a blast to drive.
You’ll appreciate the driving position, which puts you in control.
Comfortable Interior Features
The Mazda CX-50’s interior is a cut above its price tag, boasting high-quality materials and soft-touch surfaces that create a luxurious ambiance.
You’ll appreciate the premium feel, even on lower trims, which don’t feel cheap or plasticky. Standard features like a 10.25-inch display, wireless Apple CarPlay, and an eight-speaker stereo add to the comfort and convenience.
You’ll also enjoy heated front seats, leather upholstery. However, the infotainment system is somewhat outdated, and cargo space is limited.
Safety, and Reliability
In terms of safeguarding you and your passengers, the 2025 Mazda CX-50 boasts an impressive safety record.
With a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a good rating from the IIHS, you can feel secure on the road.
The CX-50 comes equipped with key safety features such as a back-up camera, Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Keeping Assist, Pre-collision safety system, Post-collision safety system, Stability Control, and Tire Pressure Warning.
However, its reliability score of 72 out of 100 indicates some issues with fob design, build quality, and blind spot monitoring.
Models, Pricing, and Recommendations
Mazda’s CX-50 lineup offers a range of options to fit different budgets and preferences.
You can choose from 10 trim levels, including the turbocharged motor, which is recommended for its added standard equipment.
Pricing starts at around $30,300 for the 2.5 S Select, while the Hybrid Preferred begins at $33,970.
The CX-50’s high-class style is worth the premium, but you’ll sacrifice backseat legroom for the spacious cargo room.
You’ll also get Apple CarPlay, all-wheel drive, and a powerful powertrain.
Consider the Turbo Meridian for the best overall package.
Drive and Handling
Behind the wheel, you’ll find the CX-50 delivers on its fun factor, making it a great fit for driving enthusiasts. The SUV has a sporty feel, but the ride quality on 20-inch wheels is subpar. The heavy steering weight isn’t ideal, but the SUV’s sporty responses make up for it.
| Handling Aspect | CX-50 Performance |
|---|---|
| Steering | Heavy, but sporty responses |
| Ride Quality | Subpar on 20-inch wheels |
| Engine | Turbocharged, but not as quick as expected |
| Transmission | Six-speed automatic, smooth shifting |
| Overall Drive | Sporty, fun factor delivered, but some drawbacks |
Fuel Economy and Value
You’ll find the fuel economy estimates for the 2025 CX-50 to be decent, if not exceptional, for the compact SUV class.
Nonturbo models return an estimated 25 mpg city and 31 mpg highway, decent estimates for the segment.
Turbocharged models dip slightly to 23/29 mpg city/highway, still acceptable for the compact SUV class.
However, the CX-50’s value rating is subpar, considering its estimated total cost of ownership and MSRP for its base and top trims, like the Premium Plus trim.
When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Mazda RX-7, Mazda RX-8, Mazda 2 and Mazda MX 5. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.
