Drivers can choose between two impressive compact SUVs in the Mazda lineup. The CX-5 has been a favorite for generations while the CX-50 debuted as an all-new model in 2023. Explore these five key differences between the 2024 Mazda CX-5 and CX-50 to make the best decision as you shop for your next great crossover.
1. Fuel Economy and Range
These vehicles share the same powertrain and both have standard all-wheel drive. However, you’ll get slightly better fuel economy of up to an EPA-estimated 27 combined city and highway miles per gallon in the CX-50. The Mazda CX-5 isn’t far behind with a combined EPA-estimated rating of 25 mpg. The CX-50’s larger fuel tank gives you a slightly longer EPA-estimated range of up to 477 highway miles when full, compared to a max of 444 EPA-estimated miles for the CX-5.
2. Body Size and Specs
Although these SUVs weigh almost the same amount, the CX-5 is slightly wider and taller than the CX-50. The latter has a longer wheelbase and overall length. You’ll also notice exaggerated design elements like wider fender flares and a longer hood.
You’ll have 31.4 cubic feet of cargo space in the CX-50, compared to 30.8 cubic feet for the CX-5. However, the CX-5 beats the CX-50 for front-row headroom by about an inch, and it has about an inch more shoulder room in both rows as well. Second-row passengers have nearly identical headroom and legroom in both SUVs.
3. Exterior Color Options
You can get either of these vehicles in a Machine Gray Metallic, Soul Red Crystal Metallic, or Jet Black Mica finish. The CX-5 also gives you the choice of Rhodium White Metallic, Eternal Blue Mica, Platinum Quartz Metallic, and Deep Crystal Blue Mica. The CX-50 exterior color lineup adds Ingot Blue Mica, Polymetal Gray Metallic, and Wind Chill Pearl.
4. Towing and Off-Roading
The CX-50 can tow up to 3,500 pounds with the right equipment, compared to 2,000 pounds for the CX-5. The CX-50 also has higher ground clearance, which makes it the natural choice if you plan to hit the trails with your new Mazda SUV, and available off-roading upgrades.
5. Infotainment Tech
The vehicles share similar standard infotainment packages, but you’ll notice a few upgrades in the CX-50. It has an eight-speaker stereo compared to a six-speaker version in the base model in the CX-5. The CX-50 also adds the wireless versions of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, while the CX-5 comes with the wired versions of these systems.
The best way to choose between these exceptional vehicles is to test drive both today. Contact Auffenberg Mazda of O’Fallon in Shiloh, IL to schedule your appointment now.
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