Mazda delivers premium experience with 2025 CX-50 Hybrid SUV

Published 7:44 am Wednesday, November 13, 2024

Mazda has been raising their SUV line for well over 10 years now. The brand’s crossovers were always good, but the new compact CX-50 is truly excellent, especially at Mazda’s affordable price point. Now the CX-50 adds a hybrid engine option, and that’s great news for fuel-conscious buyers.

The hybrid driveline includes a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine along with three electric motors delivering a combined 219 system horsepower to all four wheels. The transmission is continuously variable, but the rear wheel drive is entirely electric. The net effect is improved acceleration and over 100 miles of additional range compared to the base CX-50, while returning 40% better fuel economy. The CX-50 Hybrid is EPA-rated at 38 MPG in combined city/highway driving.

From the outside, there are not many clues that this is the hybrid, but the CX-50 is a great-looking crossover in any case. The hybrid simply offers the same sporty and outdoorsy look as the basic CX-50 while delivering its benefits.

Inside, the “Mazda Premium” aesthetic continues. The cabin is comfortable and the seats are supportive. The CX-50 Hybrid is available in three different trims, starting with “Preferred” trim at $33,970. This includes a 10.25-inch center infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support. Alexa assistant support is built-in. The front seats are heated and there’s a power liftgate.

For a little more money, you can choose “Premium” trim at $37,400. For that price, you get leather seats, a panoramic moonroof, Bose audio, and advanced adaptive cruise control. At the top of the trim ladder, “Premium Plus” trim will cost $40,050, and include heated and ventilated front seats, a full color head-up Active Driving Display, and a comprehensive driver assistance package adding blind spot monitoring and additional safety features.

On the road, the CX-50 hybrid feels like a Mazda. The steering is tight and responsive, and there’s plenty of power under your foot. Mazda has long been known as a driver’s brand, and that continue in the CX-50 Hybrid. This is a vehicle you will enjoy driving, especially as you cruise past gas stations.

One last thing, the CX-50 Hybrid is made in America, at Mazda’s facility in Huntsville, Alabama, so it will not be subject to any tariffs that might be coming down the road. The basic and sporty Turbo CX-50 is already on sale, with first deliveries of the CX-50 Hybrid to area dealers expected during the month of November.

2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid

Base price: $33,970

Price as tested: $40,050

Type: Compact crossover SUV

Engine: 2.5-liter four-cylinder with three electric motors (219 system hp)

Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission

EPA estimated mileage: 39/37

Overall length: 186.1 inches

Curb weight: 4,008 pounds

Final assembly: Huntsville, Alabama