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Mazda’s 2024 SUV lineup includes two standout models in the compact SUV segment: the Mazda CX-50 and the Mazda CX-5. Both vehicles offer impressive performance, advanced features, and stylish design. This article will provide a detailed comparison of the 2024 Mazda CX-50 and 2024 Mazda CX-5 across several key areas: performance, all-wheel drive capability, towing capacity, front and rear space, cargo space, and pricing. Additionally, we’ll explore the standard features of each model to help you determine which SUV best fits your needs.
Both the 2024 Mazda CX-50 and the CX-5 are equipped out of the gate with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine that delivers 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for daily driving and ensures a smooth and responsive driving experience. Despite their identical engine specs, the CX-50 boasts slightly better fuel efficiency out of the gate because it comes standard with cylinder deactivation. This innovative feature can shut down half of the engine’s cylinders when full power is not needed to preserve fuel. It is offered in the CX-5, but starting on the Kuro version. The table below shows the fuel economy rating for the CX-5 without cylinder deactivation.
| Specification | Mazda CX-50 Base Engine | Mazda CX-5 Base Engine |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L 4-cylinder | 2.5L 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower (hp) | 187 hp @ 6000 rpm | 187 hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 186 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm | 186 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm |
| City Fuel Economy | 9.7 L/100 km | 10.2 L/100 km |
| Highway Fuel Economy | 7.9 L/100 km | 8.2 L/100 km |
| Combined Fuel Economy | 8.9 L/100 km | 9.3 L/100 km |
When you add the ability to deactivate cylinders in the CX-5, fuel economy is considerably improved at 9.1 l/100 km in the city and 7.7 l/100 km on the highway for a combined fuel consumption rating of just 8.5 litres per 100 km.
For those seeking more power, both the CX-50 and CX-5 offer an optional 2.5-litre turbocharged engine. This engine significantly enhances performance, providing 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, making both models capable of delivering a more exhilarating driving experience.
| Specification | Mazda CX-50 Turbo AWD | Mazda CX-5 Turbo AWD |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder | 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower (hp) | 227 hp @ 5000 rpm | 227 hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 310 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm | 310 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm |
| City Fuel Economy | 10.4 L/100 km | 10.8 L/100 km |
| Highway Fuel Economy | 8.2 L/100 km | 8.7 L/100 km |
| Combined Fuel Economy | 9.4 L/100 km | 9.8 L/100 km |
Note that the horsepower and torque numbers above are with regular fuel. If you choose to fill up using premium 93 octane fuel, you will enjoy 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque in both models.
Both models come standard with Mazda’s i-Activ AWD system, designed to enhance traction and stability in various driving conditions. The system monitors road conditions in real-time and adjusts power distribution to provide optimal performance and safety.
Towing capacity differs between the standard and turbocharged versions of the CX-50. On the other hand, the CX-5 offers the same towing capacity regardless of whether you opt for the base engine or the turbo.
| Specification | Mazda CX-50 GS-L AWD | Mazda CX-5 GX AWD | Mazda CX-50 Turbo AWD | Mazda CX-5 Turbo AWD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Towing Capacity (kg) | 907 kg | 907 kg | 1588 kg | 907 kg |
When it comes to interior space, both the CX-50 and CX-5 offer comfortable seating and ample room for the driver and front passenger. As we will showcase when comparing the features of both models, however, the CX-50 offers a standard sunroof while the CX-5’s sunroof is optional in the base trims. Therefore, CX-5 headroom up front differs based on the model, but either way it offers more room for your head in the driver and passenger seats. On the other hand, the seats have more legroom up front in the CX-50.
| Specification | Mazda CX-50 | 2024 Mazda CX-5 |
|---|---|---|
| Front Headroom (mm) | 981 | 1,009 (no moonroof)/999 with moonroof |
| Front Legroom (mm) | 1,058 | 1,041 |
Rear passengers will find comfortable seating in both models, though the CX-5 offers marginally more space, making it a better choice for those who frequently travel with rear-seat passengers.
| Specification | Mazda CX-50 | Mazda CX-5 |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Headroom (mm) | 952 | 991 |
| Rear Legroom (mm) | 1,012 | 1,007 |
Cargo space is a critical consideration for many SUV buyers. The CX-5 provides a bit more cargo room compared to the CX-50.
| Specification | Mazda CX-50 | Mazda CX-5 |
|---|---|---|
| Cargo Volume (L) | 889 | 871 |
| Cargo Volume (Seats Folded) | 1,595 | 1,680 |
Pricing is another important factor when choosing between the two models. The Mazda CX-5 offers a more budget-friendly starting price, but the CX-50 provides additional features that may justify the higher cost for some buyers.
| Specification | Mazda CX-50 GS-L | Mazda CX-5 GX |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $39,300 | $32,250 |
| Destination Charge | $2,095 | $2,095 |
Both the CX-50 and CX-5 come with a range of standard features that enhance comfort, convenience, and safety. The CX-50, however, offers a few additional amenities that may appeal to buyers seeking a more luxurious experience and that also explain the higher starting price.
| Feature | Mazda CX-50 GS-L AWD | Mazda CX-5 GX AWD |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Cargo Door | Power liftgate | Manual |
| Sunroof | Standard | No |
| Front Driver Direction Control | 10-way power | 6-way manual |
| Heated Steering Wheel | Yes | No |
| Proximity Key | Advanced Keyless Entry | Push button start only |
| Auto Dimming Rear View Mirror | Yes | No |
| Smart Device Integration | Wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay | Android Auto/Apple CarPlay |
| Driver Attention Alert | Yes | No |
In summary, the 2024 Mazda CX-50 and CX-5 are both excellent compact SUVs that offer robust performance, advanced all-wheel drive systems, and competitive towing capacities. The CX-50 stands out with slightly better fuel efficiency and additional standard features, making it a great option for those willing to pay a premium for these benefits. Meanwhile, the CX-5 offers a more affordable entry point while still delivering the quality and driving experience Mazda is known for, and overall it delivers better interior space.
