The Mazda CX-50 or the CX-5? Which One to Choose!

Mazda offers two compelling options in the compact crossover market: the CX-50 and the CX-5. Both models are renowned for their sleek styling, superior handling, and upscale flair. The CX-5, a long-standing popular choice, stands out for its distinctiveness in the segment. The CX-50, a newer addition, competes in the same category and replicates many of the admired features of the CX-5. Given that Mazda markets both models concurrently, the key focus is on comparing them to understand their differences and determining which model might be the more recommended choice for consumers.

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Cinematography: Phil Shuyler

#mazda #cx50 #cx5
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0:00 The CX-50 and the CX-5
0:52 Pricing
1:20 Exterior Styling
1:56 Dimensions Compared
2:15 Powertrains
3:34 Inside the CXs
5:47 Reat Seats
6:28 Cargo Space
6:53 Driving Impressions
8:25 The Verdict

[CactusJack-]

You forgot two important differences. The CX-5 is 100% made in Japan while the 50 is produced in Alabama. Also, the CX-5 utilizes an independent rear suspension while the 50 goes “cheap” with a torsion beam.

[ErnestoPetit]

I bought the CX-5 2.5 (No turbo). Good vehicle.

[Sloane]

I just purchased a 2024 CX-5 premium plus and love it. Panoramic sunroof, Bose sound system, leather interior, it looks fancy and beautiful inside. I’m very happy with it.

[timwiedt]

I am currently leasing a CX5. I love it. It is a joy to drive, especially in the red paint.

[MtryCapt]

I have a 21 CX-5, I absolutely love this vehicle. Naturally aspirated engine. Has enough pep in it. Turbos are ok, but could be an issue down the road. Mine is the touring CX-5. Loaded with Bose system with 11 speakers including a sub.
I’ve pretty much done nothing to this vehicle except it’s maintenance services. 37k same brakes, tires.

[mikeharris]

Haven't driven either one but the cx50 just looks so much better.

[frankbaxendale]

Have 2020 CX-5. Gonna drive it 'til it dies. Great car. Haven't had to do anything but basic maintenance. 72K trouble free miles.

[mtbgeologist]

I just bought a Mazda CX-5, but while shopping I looked at the CX-50 as well. There are some details that aren't mentioned in the video about the front row of the cabin.

Where the CX-50 is better than the CX-5 is where the cup holders are. They are positioned so you reach to grab your drink (4:25) instead of turning your arm like a T-Rex to get your drink in the CX-5. Where the CX-50 fails though is the centre console. It opens up from the middle which makes it awkward to reach over to get into, whereas the CX-5 is a standard console that has better accessibility.

I went with the CX-5 mainly because I have family members with it and I'm more comfortable with the car, but the more outdoor-oriented design of the CX-50 was close to winning me over.

[WilliamSedgeman-zksi]

I own a 2023 CX-5 Signature Turbo, and couldn't be happier! It is a pleasure to drive, and is luxurious inside and out! I, too, appreciate that it was made in Japan. Gave the CX-50 a look, but preferred the classy CX-5.

[joshuapomp]

I got a cx 50 tpp! And I love it but thinking bout trading up for the all black cx70

[AmanRajput]

That infontainment system is least frustrating to use. If you own one then you would know.

[jesselox]

Ive had a 2024 cx5 for 3 months now and love it. Went for the signature for the turbo and it’s honestly pretty quick for the class

[dg]

I’ve owned both and after 8 months driving the CX-50 I’m going back to the CX-5, hugs the road better on curves where as the CX-50 sways on curves doesn’t feel as tight. Also CX-5 turbo kicks in immediately from the start, CX-50 has a delay.

[dookieification]

This guy isn't annoying. He did a great job.

[yo.adrian]

When my family rented a vehicle while on vacation, we got a Mazda3 sedan. My sister's boyfriend (who was the designated driver) hated it, because the infotainment screen wasn't touch enabled. I'm 10 years older than him, so I was used to using a separate dial for navigating screens (yay for early smartphones like the Nokia 3390 with the game "Snake").

Personally, if I had to get a small SUV, a Mazda CX-5 or CX-50 would be on my list, since I loved my Mazda3 hatchback.

[Djoshman]

I have a 2014 cx5 and absolutely don’t see a point to having cx50. The only thing keeping me from buying another newer mazda is availability of hybrid that’s at par with rav4 hybrid. And ofcourse will never ever pay for premium gas. I live in SoCal. Riddic gas prices.

[vcdramirez]

We recently bought the Mazda CX-5, and while we love the comfort and handling I am perplexed at the rear seat access for USBs and seat heaters in the center back seat console. You have to have the center console down - which means that if I’m running my skis and board through the center or have a 3rd passenger in the back seat, there is no access to these features. Shortsighted design in my mind when it comes to occupant ops, not sure why these weren’t located on the front center console at (I assume) the rear vents as shown in this video in the CX-50. The loud persistent beeping for seat belts is also annoying, as is integration of Pandora in the infotainment menu.

[tylerrynberg]

Mazda employs massive cost cutting in several areas on the CX-50 yet charges more...the hard plastics, the torsion beam rear suspension, the lower quality front seats, etc. And as noted, the CX-5 is made in Japan vs. Alabama. I would pick the CX-5 any day of the week.

EDIT: not to mention the matte black cladding even on the top CX-50 trim, no thanks.

[BrigidB]

My first Mazda was a 6 and I LOVED it. Then I got a 2015 cx5 and fell in love with the car. I bought a 2020 cx5 and I will drive it til it dies. Cx5 forever

[mrvwbug]

This was pretty much my take as well. The 50 is slightly wider, but has less headroom and worse visibility. I only drove the base 2.5 in each and with the base engine they're indistinguishable in terms of engine performance. I like the 5 a little better, the fit and finish is just a smidge better, and the headroom and visibility are better. I would also add that most people would probably be pretty happy with the base engine, the well sorted transmission really makes it drive quite well despite having only 187hp, it's a lot peppier than the CVT equipped Forester and CR-V, and the transmission is better sorted than the non-Hybrid RAV4 (RAV4 hybrid is still the king of smooth power delivery on compact crossovers).