2026 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Delivers Efficiency, Luxury, Versatility And Function
Published 10:00 pm Friday, January 2, 2026
The 2026 Mazda CX-50 crossover SUV comes in 10 different trims that make prospective buyers do some homework before setting foot on a dealership – or risk information overload.
Regardless of trim, some things are certain. All are purpose-built in Huntsville, Alabama for active lifestyles. All blend rugged capability with Mazda’s signature refined driving experience. And all offer a versatile, engaging ride with robust safety, technology, and convenience features.
My tester was the Hybrid Premium Plus trim, the CX-50’s top-tier hybrid which stands our for its luxurious and tech-forward features line ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, standard Bose 12-speaker audio system, panoramic moonroof, Alexis built-in, head-up display, 19-inch black metallic wheels, and advanced safety technology.
Other available trims include 2.5 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, Hybrid Preferred, and Hybrid Premium.
The CX-50 Hybrid is comprised of a 2.5L naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine, hybrid EV battery, three electric motors, electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission, standard electric AWD, and Mi-Drive modes Power and Trail. This setup is good for 219 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque on regular gas. CX-50 Hybrid earns an EPA-estimated 38 MPG rating and 550-mile total driving range.
Exterior highlights include signature LED lighting, power lift gate, body-colored cladding, satin chrome roof rails, black side mirrors with integrated turn signals, dual exhaust outlets, high beam control, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and “White Chill Pearl” metallic coat of enamel.
My son and I travelled the back roads to Fall City to pick up our Christmas Day prime rib roast, the perfect opportunity to put the CX-50 Hybrid Premium Plus through its paces. It delivered efficient, balanced performance, premium comfort, good ride quality and surprising refinement for a hybrid. It handled the curves on wet pavement gracefully, and accelerated on command.
The CX-50 interior is generous, and seats up to five adults. When cargo is priority, second-row seats fold flat to provide 56.3 cubic feet of space. Underfloor storage is provided to stow wet gear or expensive items away from prying eyes.
Personally, I enjoyed the heated seat, lumbar support, and steering wheel, along with the Bose premium audio system that played Christmas tunes in crystal-clear clarity. My son would have preferred to connect with wireless Apple CarPlay, We both took turns on the wireless phone charger. Four USB-C ports are provided to keep more passengers smiling.
Almost taken for granted were Mazda’s navigation, infotainment system, and two-zone climate control that flooded the cabin with just the right amount of heat.
Completing this package that almost seems catered to the Pacific Northwest, is Mazda’s standard i-Activsense safety features include smart brake support with pedestrian detection, radar cruise control, blind spot monitoring, driver attention alert, lane departure warning system, lane keep assist, rear cross traffic alert, rear seat alert, and vehicle exit warning.
All things considered, Mazda’s CX-50 Hybrid Premium Plus delivers the goods. Good gas mileage, good price, and better-than-good safety, creature comforts and versatility. It’s a must drive tester for those in the refined, near luxury, SUV market.
Base Price: $40,450
Price As Driven: $43,400
Destination charge is included in base price. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. List price may vary at local dealerships.
