Verified vehicle record
2026 Mazda CX-50
Car and Driver says the rugged-looking Meridian Edition trim is now available with the base naturally aspirated engine, and there's a new white leather interior upholstery option on certain trims. MSRP runs $31,395-$44,395. MotorTrend says Mazda dropped the Premium Plus trim from both the turbocharged and naturally aspirated lineups and slotted in new 2.5 S Meridian Edition and 2.5 Turbo offerings, plus a new black Mazda emblem and badges on Meridian and turbo models; MotorTrend likes the CX-50 but wants the extra equipment given the incredibly capable rivals it competes against, listing competitors as the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Subaru Forester.
What changed for 2026
Car and Driver (opens in a new tab) says the rugged-looking Meridian Edition trim is now available with the base naturally aspirated engine, and there's a new white leather interior upholstery option on certain trims.
MotorTrend (opens in a new tab) says the non-hybrid 2026 CX-50 gains a new black Mazda emblem and badges on Meridian and turbo models, an all-new white interior option on loaded turbo models, and the outdoor-focused Meridian Edition becomes available for the 2.5 S powertrain. Mazda also dropped the Premium Plus trim from both the turbocharged and naturally aspirated lineups, slotting in new 2.5 S Meridian Edition and 2.5 Turbo offerings instead.
Pricing for 2026
Car and Driver (opens in a new tab) lists MSRP at $31,395-$44,395.
How it compares to its closest rivals
MotorTrend (opens in a new tab) likes the CX-50, but says it'll take the extra equipment as the Mazda competes in a class with some incredibly capable rivals; MotorTrend lists competitors to the 2026 CX-50 as the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Subaru Forester.
Questions buyers ask
What's new for the 2026 Mazda CX-50?
Car and Driver (opens in a new tab) says the Meridian Edition is now available with the base engine, plus a new white leather interior option.
How much does the 2026 Mazda CX-50 cost?
Car and Driver (opens in a new tab) lists MSRP at $31,395 to $44,395.
Research paths
Move from the vehicle to the decision.
Compare like with like: the closest configuration, not an unrelated advertised maximum.
Record summary
What to know first
The 2026 Mazda CX-50 is a compact SUV that Kelley Blue Book lists in 7 trims, from the 2.5 S Select to the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus. Its engine choices are 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (SKYACTIV-G) and 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (SKYACTIV-G, Turbo). Power runs from 187 to 227 horsepower, and Kelley Blue Book lists all-wheel drive. Its curb weights run 3,741 to 3,915 lb and its combined fuel economy 25 to 26 mpg.
Against the 2025 model year in Kelley Blue Book's rows, 2.5 S Meridian Edition and 2.5 Turbo join the lineup; 2.5 S Premium Plus and 2.5 Turbo Premium are no longer listed; the best combined fuel economy moves from 28 to 26 mpg.
Trim map
How the lineup separates.
Trim descriptions identify the meaningful change from one trim to the next; individual options can still vary.
| Trim | Place in the lineup | Notable equipment |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5 S Select | Entry trim | See full equipment map |
| 2.5 S Preferred | Trim 2 of 7 | See full equipment map |
| 2.5 S Meridian Edition | Trim 3 of 7 | See full equipment map |
| 2.5 S Premium | Trim 4 of 7 | See full equipment map |
| 2.5 Turbo | Trim 5 of 7 | See full equipment map |
| 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition | Trim 6 of 7 | See full equipment map |
| 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus | Top trim | See full equipment map |
Entry trim
2.5 S Select
Trim 2 of 7
2.5 S Preferred
Trim 3 of 7
2.5 S Meridian Edition
Trim 5 of 7
2.5 Turbo
Trim 6 of 7
2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition
Trim-by-trim specifications
The 2026 Mazda CX-50: 7 trims compared.
Kelley Blue Book specifications, one row per trim.
| Trim | Engine | Transmission | Drive | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) | 0–60 mph | Top speed | EPA city / hwy / comb | Seats | Basic warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5 S Select | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (SKYACTIV-G) | Automatic, 6-Spd SKYACTIV-Drive Sport w/Manual Mode | AWD | 187 | 185 | 9.5 s | 118 mph | 24 / 30 / 26 mpg | 5 | 3 yr / 36,000 mi |
| 2.5 S Preferred | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (SKYACTIV-G) | Automatic, 6-Spd SKYACTIV-Drive Sport w/Manual Mode | AWD | 187 | 185 | 9.5 s | 118 mph | 24 / 30 / 26 mpg | 5 | 3 yr / 36,000 mi |
| 2.5 S Meridian Edition | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (SKYACTIV-G) | Automatic, 6-Spd SKYACTIV-Drive Sport w/Manual Mode | AWD | 187 | 185 | 9.5 s | 118 mph | 24 / 30 / 26 mpg | 5 | 3 yr / 36,000 mi |
| 2.5 S Premium | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (SKYACTIV-G) | Automatic, 6-Spd SKYACTIV-Drive Sport w/Manual Mode | AWD | 187 | 185 | 9.5 s | 118 mph | 24 / 30 / 26 mpg | 5 | 3 yr / 36,000 mi |
| 2.5 Turbo | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (SKYACTIV-G, Turbo) | Automatic, 6-Spd SKYACTIV-Drive Sport w/Manual Mode | AWD | 227 | 310 | 7.5 s | 135 mph | 23 / 29 / 25 mpg | 5 | 3 yr / 36,000 mi |
| 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (SKYACTIV-G, Turbo) | Automatic, 6-Spd SKYACTIV-Drive Sport w/Manual Mode | AWD | 227 | 310 | 7.5 s | 135 mph | 23 / 29 / 25 mpg | 5 | 3 yr / 36,000 mi |
| 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (SKYACTIV-G, Turbo) | Automatic, 6-Spd SKYACTIV-Drive Sport w/Manual Mode | AWD | 227 | 310 | 7.5 s | 135 mph | 23 / 29 / 25 mpg | 5 | 3 yr / 36,000 mi |
| Trim | Curb weight | Length | Height | Wheelbase | Ground clearance | Turning circle | Fuel tank | Front headroom | Front legroom | Towing | Tires |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5 S Select | 3,741 lb | 185.8 in | 63.5 in | 110.8 in | 8.3 in | 39 ft | 15.9 gal | 39.1 in | 41.7 in | 2,000 lb | P225/65R17 |
| 2.5 S Preferred | 3,741 lb | 185.8 in | 63.5 in | 110.8 in | 8.3 in | 39 ft | 15.9 gal | 38.6 in | 41.7 in | 2,000 lb | P225/65R17 |
| 2.5 S Meridian Edition | 3,741 lb | 185.8 in | 63.9 in | 110.8 in | 8.6 in | 39 ft | 15.9 gal | 38.6 in | 41.7 in | 2,000 lb | P225/60R18 |
| 2.5 S Premium | 3,741 lb | 185.8 in | 63.9 in | 110.8 in | 8.3 in | 39 ft | 15.9 gal | 38.6 in | 41.7 in | 2,000 lb | P245/45R20 |
| 2.5 Turbo | 3,915 lb | 185.8 in | 63.9 in | 110.8 in | 8.6 in | 39 ft | 15.9 gal | 38.6 in | 41.7 in | 3,500 lb | P245/45R20 |
| 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition | 3,915 lb | 185.8 in | 63.9 in | 110.8 in | 8.5 in | 39 ft | 15.9 gal | 38.6 in | 41.7 in | 3,500 lb | P225/60R18 |
| 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus | 3,915 lb | 185.8 in | 63.9 in | 110.8 in | 8.6 in | 39 ft | 15.9 gal | 38.6 in | 41.7 in | 3,500 lb | P245/45R20 |
Equipment by trim
Which 2026 Mazda CX-50 trim has what.
Std is standard, Opt is optional, a dash means Kelley Blue Book lists it as not available.
| Equipment | 2.5 S Select | 2.5 S Preferred | 2.5 S Meridian Edition | 2.5 S Premium | 2.5 Turbo | 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition | 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | |||||||
| Adaptive headlights | – | – | – | – | Std | Std | Std |
| Blind-spot alert | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Child door locks | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Child-seat anchors | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Forward collision warning | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Forward collision warning with automatic braking | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Hill-start assist | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Rearview camera | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Surround-view camera | – | – | – | – | – | – | Std |
| Front and rear parking sensors | – | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Rear parking sensors | – | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Electronic stability control | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Traction control | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Technology | |||||||
| Text-message reader | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Bluetooth audio streaming | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Bluetooth | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Hands-free calling | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Built-in internet access | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Navigation system | – | – | – | – | – | Std | Std |
| Premium audio system | – | – | – | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Satellite radio | – | – | – | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Apple CarPlay or Android Auto | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Steering-wheel audio controls | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Touchscreen | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Voice recognition | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Emergency and security services | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Comfort | |||||||
| Heated front seats | – | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Heated rear seats | – | – | – | – | – | Std | Std |
| Heated steering wheel | – | – | – | – | – | Std | Std |
| Heated mirrors | – | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Power front seats for driver and passenger | – | – | – | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Power driver's seat | – | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Leather seats | – | – | – | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Leather-wrapped steering wheel | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Front and rear climate zones | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Panoramic moonroof | – | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Tilt steering wheel | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Cup holders | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Exterior and convenience | |||||||
| Alloy wheels | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Privacy glass | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Rear spoiler | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Roof rails | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Power-folding mirrors | – | – | Std | – | Std | – | Std |
| 12-volt power outlet | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Power windows | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Remote keyless entry | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Remote engine start | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Proximity keyless entry | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Push-button start | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Cruise control | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Integrated garage-door opener | – | – | – | – | Std | Std | – |
| Rear-window defroster | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Rain-sensing wipers | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
Complete certification table
3 configuration records.
| EPA ID / label | Engine / technology | Drive / transmission | Fuel | City | Hwy | Combined | Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50009CX-50 4WD | 2.5L 4-cyl SIDIConventional | 4-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S6) | Regular | 23 | 29 | 25 | N/A |
| 50011CX-50 4WD | 2.5L 4-cyl SIDIConventional | 4-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S6) | Regular | 24 | 30 | 26 | N/A |
| 50010CX-50 4WD | 2.5L 4-cyl SIDI & PFI; HybridHybrid | 4-Wheel DriveAutomatic (variable gear ratios) | Regular | 39 | 37 | 38 | N/A |
Direct answers
23 questions tied to this model-year.
Each answer names its source.
Q01How many trims does the 2026 CX-50 come in?
Kelley Blue Book lists 7 trims for the 2026 Mazda CX-50 (compact SUV): 2.5 S Select, 2.5 S Preferred, 2.5 S Meridian Edition, 2.5 S Premium, 2.5 Turbo, 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition, 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus.
Q02What are the 2026 CX-50 trims?
Kelley Blue Book lists these 7 trims for the 2026 Mazda CX-50, in this order: 2.5 S Select, 2.5 S Preferred, 2.5 S Meridian Edition, 2.5 S Premium, 2.5 Turbo, 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition, 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus.
Q03What engine or powertrain does the 2026 CX-50 use?
The 2026 Mazda CX-50 is built around 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (SKYACTIV-G), 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (SKYACTIV-G, Turbo), rated at 187–227 horsepower across its compact SUV body style.
Q04Is AWD or 4WD available on the 2026 CX-50?
The 2026 Mazda CX-50 is offered with AWD.
Q05What changed for the 2026 CX-50?
Against the 2025 model year in Kelley Blue Book's rows, 2.5 S Meridian Edition and 2.5 Turbo join the lineup; 2.5 S Premium Plus and 2.5 Turbo Premium are no longer listed; the best combined fuel economy moves from 28 to 26 mpg.
Q06How did the 2026 Mazda CX-50 do in NHTSA's side crash and rollover tests?
The 2026 Mazda CX-50 earned 5 stars in the side crash test (5 stars driver side, 5 stars passenger side) and 4 stars for rollover resistance.
Q07How much engine oil does each 2026 Mazda CX-50 engine hold?
The 2026 Mazda CX-50 owner's manual lists the SKYACTIV-G 2.5 (4.8 US quarts), and the SKYACTIV-G 2.5T (5.1 US quarts). Source: 2026 Mazda CX-50 owner's manual.
Q08What automatic transmission fluid does the 2026 Mazda CX-50 use?
The 2026 Mazda CX-50 owner's manual names ATF WS for the transmission. Source: 2026 Mazda CX-50 owner's manual.
Q09What brake fluid, refrigerant and key-fob battery does the 2026 Mazda CX-50 use?
The 2026 Mazda CX-50 owner's manual names a CR2032 coin-cell battery in the key fob. Source: 2026 Mazda CX-50 owner's manual.
Q10How far does the 2026 Mazda CX-50 take to stop from 70 mph?
Car and Driver's testing of the 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Meridian Edition recorded a 70-to-0 mph stopping distance of 180 feet.
Q11What is the destination charge on the 2026 Mazda CX-50?
The destination charge on the 2026 Mazda CX-50 is $1,495. MotorTrend lists it, and MotorTrend's MSRP plus this charge matches Kelley Blue Book's national price, which includes destination (AWD 2.5 S Select: MotorTrend MSRP $29,900 plus this charge equals Kelley Blue Book's $31,395; the same on 7 trims).
Q12What suspension does the 2026 Mazda CX-50 use?
Rear: torsion Beam.
Q13Did the 2026 Mazda CX-50 earn an IIHS Top Safety Pick award?
IIHS lists the 2026 Mazda CX-50 as a Top Safety Pick+. IIHS states the rating applies to 2023-26, 2024-26 and 2025-26 models, based on a test of the 2023 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Premium Plus 4-door 4wd.
Q14How did the 2026 Mazda CX-50 do in IIHS crash tests?
IIHS rated the 2026 Mazda CX-50: Good in the small overlap front test, Good in the updated moderate overlap front test, Good in the updated side test. IIHS states the rating applies to 2023-26, 2024-26 and 2025-26 models, based on a test of the 2023 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Premium Plus 4-door 4wd. Grades run Good, Acceptable, Marginal, Poor.
Q15How quickly does the 2026 Mazda CX-50 accelerate from 0 to 60 mph?
The 2026 Mazda CX-50's 0-60 mph time is 7.5 seconds on the 2.5 Turbo, 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition and 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus and 9.5 seconds on the 2.5 S Select, 2.5 S Preferred, 2.5 S Meridian Edition and 2.5 S Premium. Source: Kelley Blue Book specifications.
Q16What is the 2026 Mazda CX-50's top speed?
The 2026 Mazda CX-50's top speed is 118 mph on the 2.5 S Select, 2.5 S Preferred, 2.5 S Meridian Edition and 2.5 S Premium and 135 mph on the 2.5 Turbo, 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition and 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus. Source: Kelley Blue Book specifications.
Q17What size wheels does the 2026 Mazda CX-50 have?
The 2026 Mazda CX-50's wheel diameter is 17 inches on the 2.5 S Select and 2.5 S Preferred, 18 inches on the 2.5 S Meridian Edition and 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition and 20 inches on the 2.5 S Premium, 2.5 Turbo and 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus. Source: Kelley Blue Book specifications.
Q18How much cargo space does the 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Select AWD have?
CarBuzz lists 31.4 cubic feet of cargo space for the 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Select AWD.
Q19What warranty does the 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Select AWD come with?
CarBuzz lists the 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Select AWD with basic coverage of 36 months or 36,000 miles, powertrain coverage of 60 months or 60,000 miles, corrosion coverage of 60 months with unlimited miles and roadside assistance of 36 months or 36,000 miles.
Q20What is the GVWR of the 2026 Mazda CX-50 AWD 2.5 S Select 4dr SUV?
CarDealerships.com lists a gross vehicle weight rating of 4,861 pounds for the 2026 Mazda CX-50 AWD 2.5 S Select 4dr SUV.
Q21What is the payload capacity of the 2026 Mazda CX-50 AWD 2.5 S Select 4dr SUV?
CarDealerships.com lists a maximum payload of 1,120 pounds for the 2026 Mazda CX-50 AWD 2.5 S Select 4dr SUV.
Q22How do the 2026 Mazda CX-50 trims differ from one another?
The 2.5 S Preferred has front and rear parking sensors, heated front seats, heated mirrors and 3 more as standard equipment over the 2.5 S Select. The 2.5 S Meridian Edition has power-folding mirrors as standard equipment over the 2.5 S Preferred. The 2.5 S Premium has power front seats for driver and passenger, leather seats, a premium audio system and satellite radio as standard equipment over the 2.5 S Meridian Edition. The 2.5 Turbo has 227 hp against 187 and adaptive headlights, an integrated garage-door opener and power-folding mirrors as standard equipment over the 2.5 S Premium. The 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition has heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel and a navigation system as standard equipment over the 2.5 Turbo.
Q23What does the 2026 Mazda CX-50 cost across its trims?
Kelley Blue Book's national base prices for the 2026 Mazda CX-50 run from $31,395 for the 2.5 S Select to $44,395 for the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus, across 7 trims. Those figures include the destination charge.
Live NHTSA evidence
Current federal safety records for 2026 Mazda CX-50.
Exact-vehicle evidence desk
Move from the guide to the VIN record.
Trim research establishes the marketed lineup. These primary-source paths resolve recall applicability, manufacturer-submitted identity fields and exact EPA configuration data.
Other model years
Compare the Mazda CX-50 across model years.
Source trail
Evidence behind the record
Specifications and pricing can change after publication. Critical purchasing decisions should be confirmed against the exact vehicle window sticker or manufacturer build record.