This week I bring you the 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 Turbo. Introduced in 2023, the award-winning CX-50 is Mazda's answer to those clamoring for an Mazda-branded SUV with an adventurous side. It's currently the brand's second best-selling SUV behind the CX-5 with sales up nearly 20% year-over-year as of the end of April.
The CX-50 blends refined looks with the dash of ruggedness required of a vehicle equipped for light off-roading.
My CX-50 test vehicle wears a gorgeous Cypress green hue. Mazda truly does such a tremendous job with its paint hues which certainly factors in to the entire lineup's upscale appeal.
While the Turbo would typically feature a new gloss black Mazda emblem and badging along with black roof rails, my test vehicle is outfitted with a new-for-2026 available White Interior Option that comes with 20-inch Silver machine-finished allow wheels, silver roof rails and chrome emblems and badging.
Other exterior features include a rear roof spoiler, heated side mirrors, and LED headlights with an adaptive front lighting system along with high beam control.
Powertrain
The Turbo model is for drivers who enjoy a little excitement with their commute. A 2.5-liter turbo four-cylinder delivers up to 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. You'll need to use premium fuel to get those numbers. Using regular dials it down to 227 hp and 310 lb.-ft., notably higher than the standard CX-50's 176 horsepower. (Hint: Buy the Turbo unless you want to go with the hybrid's 219 horsepower.) The Turbo's engine is paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel paddle shifters. It's also equipped with all-wheel drive.
Interior
Applause for Mazda on the newly available white interior. It looks terrific and pairs well with the Cypress green exterior.
In typical Mazda fashion, the CX-50's interior is near luxury, featuring exceptional craftsmanship and build quality. Well-designed, leather-wrapped, heated front seats are on the firmer side when it comes to the seat backs. Ahead of the leather-wrapped steering wheel sits Mazda's familiar 7-inch LCD digital display flanked by analog dials.
A 10.25-inch color center display runs Mazda Connect with Alexa Built In and Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. (Mazda's new system debuts in the 2026 CX-5.) The Premium Plus is outfitted with a 12-speaker Bose sound system.
Beneath the display you find traditional dual-zone climate controls. On the glossy black trimmed center console, a leather-wrapped gear shift, MiDrive select, the multimedia controller, auto brake hold and electric parking brake,
Other standard features include a power panoramic roof, wireless charger and four USB-C ports split between rows.
Second row passengers get heated seats, traditional A/C vents and a drop down center console with cupholders.
A power rear lift gate reveals a spacious cargo area with an optional retractable cargo cover. Levers release the second-row seats if you need additional space.
Safety
Standard i-Activsense safety features include Smart Brake Support with pedestrian detection, Blind Spot Monitoring, Driver Attention Alert, Lane Departure Warning System, Lane Keep Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Rear Seat Alert, and Vehicle Exit Warning.
Turbo Premium Plus models add a 360 degree view monitor, smart brake support with turn across traffic and front crossing, smart brake support reverse, front cross traffic alert, blind spot assist, frameless auto dimming rearview mirror, cruising traffic support and an active driving display.
Option include the Cypress Green and white interior package ($200) and a retractable cargo cover ($225) bringing the MSRP to just $45,000, which is very well priced in the segment.
The CX-50 Turbo is a spirited crossover that's fun to drive on-road and can also tackle light off-roading. Acceleration feels great thanks to the Turbo engine and while there is some turbo lag due to the 6-speed transmission, I'm compelled to overlook it due to its overall engaging driving dynamics and terrific handling. Mi-Drive and Off-Road modes are standard. In terms of ride quality, its stiffer suspension lends itself to a harsher ride, so it's probably not going be a great fit for your senior parents who probably like a bit more ride comfort.
Verdict
The Mazda CX-50 delivers a near-luxury interior and engaging driving dynamics with a dose of capability at a great price. Just be aware that the ride won't be for everyone.