2026 Mazda CX-50 and CX-50 Hybrid: A Mazda SUV Made for Weekends Out

September 24th, 2026 by

Mazda describes the CX-50 as a spacious 2-row SUV, “designed with nature in mind and you at heart”. It’s assembled in America, and for 2026 you can choose gas or hybrid power. Here’s how to pick the CX-50 that fits the way you drive.

Built Around Your Gear

The CX-50’s cargo floor is deeper than it is wide, so coolers, packs and gear fit lengthwise. On gas models, Mazda lists 31.4 cubic feet behind the second row and up to 56.3 cubic feet with the second-row seatbacks folded. A programmable Rear Power Liftgate is available, and you can set how high it rises for low garage ceilings.

Other outdoor-minded touches include an available Panoramic Moonroof, hard-wearing materials inspired by technical outdoor gear, and an accessory Rooftop Platform that works with the available Crossbars to carry kayaks, bikes and even pop-up tents. That’s a lot of room for a day at Sandy Point.

Gas Models: Choose Your Drive Mode

Every CX-50 comes with i-Activ AWD. Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) lets you pick Normal, Sport or Off-Road mode, plus Towing Mode on 2.5 Turbo models.

  • 2.5 S models: Skyactiv-G 2.5 with up to 187 hp. Tows up to 2,000 lbs with a genuine Mazda Tow Hitch.
  • 2.5 Turbo models: a Twin-scroll Turbocharger boosts output to up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft on recommended premium fuel. Tows up to 3,500 lbs with Towing Mode engaged, when properly equipped.

CX-50 Hybrid: Efficiency With e-AWD

The CX-50 Hybrid pairs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors, a hybrid battery pack, an e-CVT and electronic all-wheel drive (e-AWD). Highlights:

  • Up to 219 hp total
  • EPA-estimated 38 mpg combined
  • Mi-Drive with Power mode for extra acceleration and Trail mode for more traction
  • Three trims: Hybrid Preferred, Hybrid Premium and Hybrid Premium Plus

If your week includes a long commute toward Baltimore, the Hybrid is worth a close look. If you want Turbo power or Towing Mode, the gas CX-50 is your match.

Tech and Safety

Alexa Built-in, Apple CarPlay integration and the MyMazda App with Mazda Connected Services for remote start and lock/unlock are part of the CX-50 experience. Standard safety features include Smart Brake Support, Blind Spot Monitoring and Lane-keep Assist. An available 360° View Monitor helps with tight parking.

Need a third row for carpool days? Take a look at the CX-90 as well.

Mazda CX-50 FAQ

How much can the CX-50 tow?
Up to 2,000 lbs for 2.5 S models and up to 3,500 lbs for 2.5 Turbo models, when properly equipped with a genuine Mazda Tow Hitch.

Does the CX-50 Hybrid have all-wheel drive?
Yes. It comes standard with an on-demand e-AWD system.

Does the CX-50 have an off-road mode?
Gas models have Off-Road mode through Mi-Drive. The Hybrid has Trail mode.

Test Drive the CX-50 in Pasadena

Bring your gear and try the cargo area for yourself. Call Sales at 410-766-4000 and we’ll have a gas CX-50 and a CX-50 Hybrid ready to drive back to back.

Rich Morton Mazda
51 Mountain Rd, Pasadena, MD 21122
Sales: 410-766-4000

Sales is open Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 9 PM, and Saturday, 9 AM to 7 PM.

Vehicle details are per Mazda USA (mazdausa.com) as of September 2026. Features and availability vary by trim; see dealer for details. EPA-estimated mileage; actual results will vary. Towing capacities are maximums when properly equipped; see your Owner’s Manual. Mazda Connected Services includes a trial period; subscription fees apply after. Alexa is a trademark of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. Apple CarPlay is a trademark of Apple Inc.

Posted in Mazda Tips