Is the aging CX-5 still the best crossover from the brand? We compare it to our time in their new CX-50 and give you a breakdown of the differences.
Mazda is in the midst of a bit of a renaissance. Converting its lineup from single-digit designators to double digits while upping the luxury and value simultaneously. We have seen this firsthand with our first look at the three-row CX-9’s replacement in the CX-90. Mazda has also introduced the CX-50 which one would assume would be the replacement for this CX-5, but the brand is yet to commit to discontinuing its best-selling model in favor of the new CX-50.
We have sampled the new CX-50 on multiple occasions and have enjoyed our time in it each time we did, however, this is our first real glimpse into the CX-5. Built on a different platform, there are plenty of similarities to be gleaned from the two compact crossovers in the brand’s lineup. Just take a look at how their specs compare down below.
2023 Mazda CX-50 v CX-5
2023 CX-50 Premium Plus AWD Features:
• 2.5L SKYACTIV-G Turbocharged 4-Cylinder Engine
• i-ACTIV AWD
• 227 Horsepower
• 310 lb-ft of Torque
• 6-Speed Automatic Transmission
• Seating for 5
• Leather Seats
• Heated and Ventilated Front Seats
• Heated Outboard Rear Seats
• 20-inch Wheels and Tires
• 31.4 Cubic Feet of Storage Behind 2nd Row
• 56.3 Cubic Feet of Storage with the 2nd Row Folded
• 10.25-inch Color Touchscreen Infotainment with Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Panoramic Sunroof
• Proximity Key with Push Button Start
• EPA Fuel Economy 23/29/25 (city/hwy/combined)
• Starting MSRP $26,800
• Price as tested: $43,170
2023 CX-5 Turbo Signature AWD Features:
• 2.5L SKYACTIV-G Turbocharged 4-Cylinder Engine
• i-ACTIV AWD
• 227 Horsepower
• 310 lb-ft of Torque
• 6-Speed Automatic Transmission
• Seating for 5
• Leather Seats
• Heated and Ventilated Front Seats
• Heated Outboard Rear Seats
• 19-inch Wheels and Tires
• 29.1 Cubic Feet of Storage Behind 2nd Row
• 58.1 Cubic Feet of Storage with the 2nd Row Folded
• 10.25-inch Color Touchscreen Infotainment with Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Standard Size Sunroof
• Proximity Key with Push Button Start
• EPA Fuel Economy 22/27/24 (city/hwy/combined)
• Starting MSRP $26,700
• Price as tested: $41,665
As you can see, it is almost splitting hairs to find distinguishable differences between the two outside of a pure design aesthetic. With a taller, narrower, and rounder design, the CX-5 will perhaps appeal to a wider audience, but it will be interesting to see what Mazda does with two similar vehicles within its lineup over the next couple of years.
What are your thoughts? Which would you prefer? CX-50 or CX-5?
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