2026 MAZDA CX-5 Vs. MAZDA CX-50: Which SUV Fits Your Lifestyle?

Are you seeking an elevated SUV in Hamden or the neighboring regions? Mazda offers two of the segment’s top sellers: the 2026 Mazda CX-5 and the 2026 Mazda CX-50. Both models share the brand’s hallmark driving dynamics, standard all-wheel drive, and sophisticated design. But what are the differences between the 2026 Mazda CX-50 and the 2026 Mazda CX-5? Explore the unique features and specifications of both of these new vehicles with the team at our Hartford dealership to determine which SUV better suits your lifestyle.

Performance & Capability: Hartford Commuting Vs. New England Trails

Both SUVs come with robust engines and the automaker’s industry-leading i-ACTIV AWD® system. The Mazda CX-50, however, gives you an additional engine option that’s more powerful than the standard engine of either model:

2026 MAZDA CX-50 Engines

• 187-hp, SKYACTIV®-G 2.5L, 4-cylinder (standard on 2.5 S Select, 2.5 S Preferred, 2.5 S Meridian Edition, and 2.5 S Premium trims)
• 227-hp, SKYACTIV®-G 2.5L, 4-cylinder with Twin-scroll Turbo (standard on 2.5 Turbo, 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition, and 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus trims)

2026 MAZDA CX-5 Engines

• 187-hp, SKYACTIV®-G 2.5L, 4-cylinder (standard on all five trims)

Interior Tech: The New MAZDA CX-5 Touchscreen Vs. MAZDA CX-50 Rugged Utility

New Mazda vehicles are known for their world-class comfort, convenience, and connectivity features. Are you drawn to the 15.6-inch touchscreen available on the new Mazda CX-5 for easy navigation when driving around West Hartford? Seeking a new Mazda CX-50 for your next adventure out past Milford? Regardless of which model you select, you’ll enjoy amenities like these:

• Bose® 12-speaker surround sound system with Centerpoint® and AudioPilot® (available)
• Dual-zone automatic climate control with pollen filter (standard)
• Moonroof (available)
• Push Button Start (standard)
• USB ports (standard)
• Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility (standard)
• And much more

Efficiency Comparison: MAZDA CX-5 MPG Vs. MAZDA CX-50 Hybrid

Both of these new Mazda SUVs offer generous mpg ratings. However, you’ll find that the 2026 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid is the ideal choice for drivers commuting from Manchester to Hartford who want to slash their fuel budget. Take a look at the fuel economy ratings for both models and decide which configuration is right for your daily trips and weekend getaways:

MAZDA CX-5

• 2026 MAZDA CX-5 MPG (AWD): 24 mpg city / 30 mpg highway

MAZDA CX-50

• MAZDA CX-50 2.5 S Select: 24 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
• MAZDA CX-50 2.5 S Preferred: 24 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
• MAZDA CX-50 2.5 S Meridian Edition: 24 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
• MAZDA CX-50 2.5 S Premium: 24 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
• MAZDA CX-50 2.5 Turbo: 23 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
• MAZDA CX-50 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition: 23 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
• MAZDA CX-50 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus: 23 mpg city / 29 mpg highway

Dimensions & Cargo Space For Your Next Connecticut Road Trip

So, what is the difference between the Mazda CX-50 and the Mazda CX-5 when it comes to size? Although both are five-seat crossovers, they differ in exterior profile, interior space, and towing capacity. Whether you prefer the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select for running errands around Hartford or the Mazda CX-50 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition for weekend trips to Talcott Mountain or the Berkshires, you’ll find sleek, spacious dimensions on both SUVs:

2026 MAZDA CX-50 Key Dimensions

• Legroom (Front/Rear): 41.7 inches / 39.8 inches
• Cargo Volume (Rear Seat Up/Down): 31.4 cubic feet / 56.3 cubic feet
• Width (Mirrors Folded In): 72.9 inches
• Length: 185.8 inches
• Maximum Available Towing Capacity: 3,500 pounds*

2026 MAZDA CX-5 Key Dimensions

• Legroom (Front/Rear): 41.7 inches / 39.9 inches
• Cargo Volume (Rear Seat Up/Down): 33.7 cubic feet / 66.5 cubic feet
• Width (Mirrors Folded In): 81.8 inches
• Length: 184.6 inches
• Maximum Available Towing Capacity: 1,500 pounds**

Test Drive Both Mazda SUVs At Liberty Mazda In Hartford

Experience the difference between the Mazda CX-5 and the Mazda CX-50 by scheduling a test drive appointment with us today. Contact us online to schedule a visit to Liberty Mazda. Regardless of which model you choose, you’ll drive back to your home in Manchester in an SUV that boasts reliable Mazda performance, head-turning style, and state-of-the-art features.

*Up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity with Mazda CX-50 Turbo models when activating available Towing mode. Towing mode available on select trims and requires use of a Genuine Mazda hitch. Towing capacities shown are maximums and must be reduced by the weight of any passenger, cargo hitch or optional equipment in the towing vehicle. Please refer to vehicle Owner’s Manual for details regarding towing capacities and other valuable information. Towing a trailer may have an effect on vehicle’s handling, braking, durability, performance and driving economy. For specific information on recommended or required equipment, see your Mazda Dealer.

**Up to 1,500 pounds of towing capacity. Towing capacities shown are maximums and must be reduced by the weight of any passenger, cargo hitch or optional equipment in the towing vehicle. Please refer to vehicle Owner’s Manual for details regarding towing capacities and other valuable information. Towing a trailer may have an effect on vehicle’s handling, braking, durability, performance and driving economy. For specific information on recommended or required equipment, see your Mazda Dealer. Hitches are available through manufacturers other than Mazda.