Does This Make Sense? New Mazda CX-5 vs. Mazda CX-50

Thinking about buying a new Mazda SUV? In this Mazda CX-5 vs. Mazda CX-50 review, we compare price, specs, and driving dynamics to find out which is the best SUV for you. Run a VIN check or license plate search to uncover maintenance history, open recalls, and title statuses before you buy at http://bumper.com/edmunds Mazda CX-5 Edmunds Review – https://www.edmunds.com/mazda/cx-5/?utm_campaign=video_description&utm_source=youtube Mazda CX-50 Edmunds Review – https://www.edmunds.com/mazda/cx-50/?utm_campaign=video_description&utm_source=youtube More Edmunds Comparison Videos – https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsSQoIGhBLpQwAPiW1fCPh4LEWxlbp9Cx Appraisal Tool – https://www.edmunds.com/appraisal/?utm_campaign=video_description&utm_source=youtube Car Listings – https://www.edmunds.com/new-cars-for-sale/?utm_campaign=video_description&utm_source=youtube Ratings and Reviews – https://www.edmunds.com/car-reviews/?utm_campaign=video_description&utm_source=youtube 00:00 Intro 00:34 CX-50 Pricing & Spec 01:21 CX-50 Interior, Tech & Cargo 06:20 CX-50 Driving Impressions 08:53 CX-5 Pricing & Spec 09:20 CX-5 Interior, Tech & Cargo 14:29 CX-5 Driving Impressions 16:40 Value 18:11 Edmunds' Take Mazda has two incredibly similar compact SUVs on the market, which begs the question: Does this lineup make sense? We're putting the newly redesigned 2026 Mazda CX-5 head-to-head with the rugged 2026 Mazda CX-50 in this comprehensive review to see which one deserves a spot in your driveway. On paper, the specs and dimensions might seem nearly identical, but these two vehicles offer very different experiences. The all-new Mazda CX-5 aims for modernization with a massive 15.6-inch touchscreen powered by Google Built-In, a significantly roomier back seat than before, and a softer, more comfortable ride. However, ditching physical buttons for screen-based controls and losing some of its signature driving sharpness might alienate longtime fans. Its 2.5-liter engine also leaves a bit to be desired when it comes to outright speed, taking 9.0 seconds to get to 60 mph, and both vehicles deliver a rather average 26 mpg combined with their base engines — though the CX-50 offers a hybrid option. Meanwhile, the Mazda CX-50 leans into classic Mazda DNA. It retains the tactile physical controls we love, sports a less generic exterior, and delivers the sharp, engaging steering you expect from the brand. While its cabin is slightly less spacious and the ride is firmer, the driving dynamics are undeniable. Plus, the CX-50 gives you the option to upgrade to a turbocharged engine for better performance and towing, or a hybrid for better efficiency, whereas the CX-5's powertrain choices are limited. So, in the battle of Mazda CX-5 vs. Mazda CX-50, which is the best SUV? When we compared price, technology and overall comfort, the CX-5 put up a strong fight. But ultimately, the CX-50 takes the win by a hair, edging out the CX-5 by just 0.3 points in our ratings. It remains the better SUV to drive and boasts an undeniable X factor that sets it apart from the rest of the compact crowd. If this kind of video is helpful to you and you want to support us in making more work like this in the future, hitting the like, subscribe, and notification bell buttons goes a long way. Disclaimer: This video's description was generated with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy by the Edmunds editorial team. The video itself was created entirely without the use of generative AI. https://www.instagram.com/edmundscars https://www.facebook.com/edmunds https://www.tiktok.com/@edmunds https://twitter.com/edmunds https://www.reddit.com/user/edmundscars #MazdaCX5 #MazdaCX50 #Edmunds