MAZDA CX-50 VS THE COMPETITION

Mazda CX-50 vs. The Competition: Which midsized SUV is Right for You?

When comparing compact SUVs, the Mazda CX-50 stands out among popular choices like the Toyota RAV4, Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Subaru Forester, and Honda CR-V for its upscale styling, refined handling, and premium interior experience. While each of these rivals has its own strengths, the CX-50 delivers a unique blend of design, performance, and technology that sets it apart—especially for drivers who want a more dynamic and sophisticated drive.

Why Compare the Mazda CX-50 and the competition?

Here's the highlights on why the Mazda CX-50 stands out compared to the Toyota RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Subaru Forester, and Honda CR-V:

1. More Engaging Driving Dynamics – With available turbocharged power and Mazda’s focus on performance-tuned handling, the CX-50 offers a sportier, more responsive feel behind the wheel.
2. Premium Interior Quality – The CX-50 features upscale materials, a refined cabin layout, and a more luxurious design than what’s typically found in its segment rivals.
3. Sleek, Adventure-Ready Design – With its wide stance, low profile, and rugged styling cues, the CX-50 delivers a bold look that blends sophistication with outdoor capability.
4. Driver-Centric Technology and Comfort – From its intuitive infotainment interface to features like available panoramic moonroof and heated rear seats, the CX-50 prioritizes the driver and passenger experience in a way competitors often don’t.

However, while the Jeep Wrangler holds its legendary off-road status, the Ford Bronco combines modern innovation, superior technology, and versatile performance at a competitive price. Let’s take a closer look.

Driving Experience

The CX-50 is engineered for drivers who value connection to the road. It features available turbocharged engines with up to 256 horsepower, offering more power than the RAV4 (203 hp), Forester (182 hp), or CR-V (190 hp). Even the RAV4 Hybrid, known for efficiency, only produces a combined 219 horsepower. The CX-50’s standard i-Activ AWD system provides excellent traction across weather conditions, and its G-Vectoring Control Plus enhances cornering stability—making it more fun to drive than its competitors, which prioritize comfort over sportiness.

Interior Quality

Step inside the CX-50 and you’ll immediately notice the luxurious materials and driver-focused layout, which feel more like what you’d find in a luxury vehicle than a mainstream SUV. The Toyota RAV4, Forester, and CR-V have practical interiors, but the Mazda offers available leather upholstery, contrasting stitching, and a sleek, horizontal dashboard design that delivers a more elevated look and feel.

Technology & Infotainment

The Mazda CX-50 includes a 10.25-inch center display with standard Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™, operated by a rotary dial that minimizes distraction. While the RAV4 and CR-V also offer large touchscreens, the CX-50’s interface is designed with driver attention in mind. Higher trims feature a Bose® premium audio system, which offers richer sound than what’s found in most trims of the competition.

Design & Adventure-Ready Features

Visually, the CX-50 stands apart with its wide stance, aggressive grille, and available two-tone exterior options. Built for adventure, it offers off-road drive modes and roof rails for outdoor gear, much like the Forester’s rugged trim levels, but with a more refined appearance. It’s also lower and wider than the others, improving stability and giving it a planted, athletic look.