2024 CX-5 vs CX-50: Which Mazda SUV Is Right For You?

• Starting at $30,300, the 2024 Mazda CX-50 is in stock here at SB Mazda Chantilly, VA!
• Many wonder how the well-established 2024 CX-5 stacks up against the new CX-50.
• Today at Safford Mazda, we’ll go over both SUVs to determine which vehicle is the right one for you!

Introduced back in 2016, the Mazda CX-5 has been a staple in the compact SUV segment, especially among commuters and enthusiasts. Starting at $29,300 the  CX-5 offers excellent driving dynamics and luxurious comfort, rivaling higher-priced European brands. The new CX-50 isn’t meant to replace the CX-5 by any means, but its larger dimensions and features may attract certain types of shoppers. Today, we’ll go over the performance, fuel economy, interior, and tech features of the two SUVs, so you can be better prepared for your visit here at SB Mazda Chantilly, Virginia!

Performance and Fuel Economy

Both the CX-50 and CX-5 feature the same 2.5-liter inline-4 and deliver 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. Trims with Turbo in their names are blessed with a robust turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine capable of an impressive 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque.

The inclusion of i-Stop technology increases efficiency in both the CX-5 and CX-50. The smaller CX-5 boasts an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 26 mpg city and 31 mpg highway, while the turbocharged trims deliver 22 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. The larger CX-50’s standard engine delivers 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway while turbocharged variants offer 23 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. For a power increase of over 50 horsepower, losing only 1mpg is a highly impressive feat by the CX-50.

Space & Cargo Capacity

Both the CX-5 and CX-50 are compact SUVs, but the latter is marketed as a bigger, more spacious vehicle. Is that true, and if so, by how much? Take a look below:

2024 CX-5 Dimensions

• Interior Volume: 133.6 ft³
• Passenger Volume: 103.6 ft³
• Max Cargo Volume: 59.3 ft³
• Front Headroom: 39.7 inches
• Rear Headroom: 39.0 inches 
• Front Hip Room: 55.2 inches 
• Rear Hip Room: 55.3 inches 
• Front Shoulder Room: 57.1 inches 
• Rear Shoulder Room: 54.8 inches 
• Front Leg Room: 41.0 inches 
• Rear Leg Room: 39.6 inches 

2024 CX-50 Dimensions

• Interior Volume: 131.7 ft³
• Passenger Volume: 100.3 ft³
• Max Cargo Volume: 56.3 ft³
• Front Headroom: 39.1 inches
• Rear Headroom: 38.6 inches 
• Front Hip Room: 53.6 inches 
• Rear Hip Room: 52.1 inches 
• Front Shoulder Room: 55.9 inches 
• Rear Shoulder Room: 53.6 inches 
• Front Leg Room: 41.7 inches 
• Rear Leg Room: 39.8 inches 

Although the CX-50 has larger exterior dimensions, it’s actually less spacious than the CX-5 in the interior. The only metric where the CX-50 outshines the CX-5 is in legroom space.

Technology & Convenienice

Both SUVs boast a vast array of technologies designed to make driving a seamless and hassle-free experience. The CX-5 and CX-50 offer touchscreen infotainment systems, although the CX-50’s is 0.5-inches bigger at 12.3-inches. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard for both, but the CX-50 boasts wireless capability. Below is quick breakdown:

Both vehicles offer power-adjustable front seats along with heated and ventilated options!

Concluding Thoughts

The CX-5 and CX-50 are both great options in the compact SUV segment, offering endless customization, features, and tech. But which one is the right one for you? After comparing the spec, we conclude that the CX-5 is more towards the Enthusiast with a small family, while the CX-50 is geared towards Shoppers who prioritize comfort and space.

Made up your mind? Visit us at SB Mazda Chantilly, VA, and discover our Mazda vehicles in person today!