2026 MAZDA CX-50 vs MAZDA CX-5

If you’re in the market for a compact crossover to elevate your Las Cruces, NM and Alamogordo, NM driving experience, the Mazda lineup offers two of the best-selling models in the segment. But what is the difference between the Mazda CX-50 and the Mazda CX-5? While they are each built around the brand’s signature driving dynamics, all-wheel-drive capability, and thoughtful design, there are some subtle but important differences between them. To learn more, compare the 2026 Mazda CX-50 vs. 2026 Mazda CX-5 specs and features with Rudolph Mazda below.

How Do Performance Specs Compare Between the 2026 MAZDA CX-50 and MAZDA CX-5?

Both SUVs come standard with a 187-hp engine and i-ACTIV AWD®, but the 2026 Mazda CX-50 gives you an additional 227-hp turbo engine option that is more powerful than the standard engine of either model. 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)

How Do the 2026 MAZDA CX-50 and MAZDA CX-5 Compare in Size and Towing Capability?

The 2026 Mazda CX-50 is longer and offers a higher maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, while the Mazda CX-5 is wider and provides greater maximum cargo volume. Although both are five-seat crossovers, they are distinct in terms of exterior profile, interior space, and towing strength. 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 are distinct in terms of exterior profile, interior space, and towing strength.

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**

What Features Are Shared Between the 2026 MAZDA CX-50 and MAZDA CX-5?

Both the 2026 Mazda CX-50 and Mazda CX-5 come equipped with standard comfort and convenience amenities such as dual-zone automatic climate control, Push Button Start, and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility. New Mazda vehicles are known for their world-class comfort, convenience, and connectivity features. Whether you choose the Mazda CX-50 or the Mazda CX-5 for all your Deming, NM drives, 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

What Are the Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 MAZDA CX-50 vs. MAZDA CX-5?

Below are answers to common questions regarding engine options, towing capacities, and cargo volume differences between the 2026 Mazda CX-50 and Mazda CX-5.

What engines are available in the 2026 Mazda CX-50 vs. Mazda CX-5?
The 2026 Mazda CX-50 offers a standard 187-hp SKYACTIV®-G 2.5L 4-cylinder engine and an available 227-hp SKYACTIV®-G 2.5L 4-cylinder Twin-scroll Turbo engine, whereas the Mazda CX-5 features the 187-hp SKYACTIV®-G 2.5L 4-cylinder engine across all five trims.

What is the maximum towing capacity of the 2026 Mazda CX-50 compared to the Mazda CX-5?
The 2026 Mazda CX-50 offers a maximum available towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds, while the Mazda CX-5 offers a maximum available towing capacity of up to 1,500 pounds.

How much cargo volume does the 2026 Mazda CX-5 offer compared to the CX-50?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 provides 33.7 cubic feet of cargo volume with the rear seats up and up to 66.5 cubic feet with the rear seats down, compared to the Mazda CX-50 which provides 31.4 cubic feet (rear seat up) and 56.3 cubic feet (rear seat down).

Where Can You Test-Drive Both MAZDA SUVs in El Paso?

You can test-drive both the 2026 Mazda CX-50 and Mazda CX-5 at Rudolph Mazda in El Paso. See firsthand what the difference between the Mazda CX-50 and the Mazda CX-5 is when you take both models for a test drive. Contact us to schedule an appointment today, and check out our car-buying tips beforehand so you can make the best buying decisions for your needs. No matter which SUV you drive home, you can expect reliable Mazda performance, state-of-the-art features, and head-turning style. In the meantime, be sure to apply for financing online and get a trade-in estimate for your current vehicle. Don’t forget to check out our new vehicle specials as well.