For the average person, it can be hard to tell vehicles apart and understand what makes each one different. Take the CX-5 and the new CX-50, for example—if you stood in front of both SUVs at a Mazda dealer, you’d have a hard time telling which was which and why it’s necessary to be able to tell them apart.
To help you better understand the new Mazda CX-50, we’re breaking down what ways the CX-5 and CX-50 are similar, what makes them different, and which is the best for you.
Similarities Between the CX-50 and the CX-5
On the outside, the Mazda CX-5 and CX-50 look remarkably similar. There are slight changes for the 50 -a higher, more rectangular grille, a new headlight design, and an overall sportier look -but little else. The interior of the CX-50 has a more modern style and better quality, but the dimensions and material barely differ.
As for the powertrain, both have 2.5-liter inline-4 engines, 6-speed automatic transmissions, and all-wheel drive. The CX-50 has a slightly larger gas tank, but both get 24 miles per gallon in the city and 30 on the highway.
So what actually makes these vehicles different? It turns out that quite a bit of the technology and features have been updated for the CX-50.
Differences Between the CX-50 and the CX-5
First off, the CX-50 is supposed to be the off-roading champion of Mazda’s recent releases. Attesting to this is the fact that the suspension has been improved to allow for rougher driving situations. A panoramic sunroof has been included on the CX-50 to help drivers feel closer to nature.
One of the most prominent differences between the CX-50 and CX-5 is that the 50 has a Mazda Intelligent Drive Select system. This system has the usual Normal and Sport that Mazda drivers recognize and also has Off-Road and Towing modes for those that are adventurous or need to haul equipment.
Tech lovers will be happy to know that the CX-50 doesn’t have the CX-5’s wired connections anymore -navigation, phone calls, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto are Bluetooth connected and accessed from the steering wheel buttons.
Speaking of technology, Mazda dealers could be seeing hybrid and electric versions of the CX-50 in the coming years.
Which Mazda Model is Best for You?
Because of their similarities, it’s hard to say which of these Mazda SUVs would be the best for you. With a price difference of a few thousand dollars—$33,000 for the CX-5 and $40,000 for the CX-50—it comes down to what you intend to use them for.
The CX-5 is well-equipped for driving through the city in comfort and style, while the CX-50 is made for rougher terrain and taking on large loads. The CX-50 has more technology, modern style, and feature updates that mean a costlier price tag. The CX-5 is more simple and less expensive.
Regardless, you’ll know you’re getting the best from Mazda. So don’t hesitate to head down to your local Mazda dealer to test drive the CX-5 and CX-50 and decide which SUV is better!
