Analysis: The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid might lack sufficient appeal
For most conventional vehicles that run on gasoline, our general recommendation to buyers is straightforward: Opt for the hybrid version whenever it is available.
The Mazda CX-50, manufactured in Alabama, now comes in a hybrid version. After evaluating it for a few days, the recommendation remains valid, albeit with certain reservations.
In contrast to competitors like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, and the upcoming Subaru Forester, Mazda does not view the hybrid system as the standout model in its lineup. Rather, the company positions the CX-50 Hybrid between its 2.5 S and Turbo versions.
Mazda CX-50 Hybrid: A Hybrid Addition to Mazda’s Popular Lineup
The CX-50 Hybrid boasts the same appealing aesthetics as its non-hybrid counterparts. Its design features a harmonious combination of shape, posture, and style that work together seamlessly. The vehicle avoids the appearance of an oversized compact SUV or a downsized version of a larger model. Its sides are elegantly contoured, the protective cladding is tastefully understated, and there are no ungainly angles to be found.
From afar, distinguishing the Hybrid model from the non-hybrid version can be challenging, with the exception of its distinctive alloy wheels. The CX-50 Hybrid’s exterior is subtly elevated by 1.4 inches while maintaining the same ground clearance. It also features slightly more pronounced body cladding, which is a modest adjustment designed to integrate seamlessly with the non-hybrid models.
The dimensions and design of the CX-50 Hybrid remain largely unchanged. It offers a ground clearance ranging from 7.8 to 8.1 inches. My test model, the Premium Plus, was equipped with 19-inch wheels that add a little more height.
The interior of the hybrid, similar to other CX-50 models, feels more compact than its exterior suggests. Compared to competing vehicles, the CX-50 offers significantly less space for passengers, with an EPA-rated volume of 97.0 cubic feet. It also falls short in cargo space, providing only 29.2 cubic feet behind the second row, and expanding to 56.3 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded.
Hybrid Version of the 2025 Mazda CX-50
Mazda’s CX-50 Hybrid: Prioritizes Style Over Roominess Compared to Competitors
Upon examining the CX-50’s extended frame, it becomes clear after several inspections that the allocation of space is straightforward. The vehicle boasts an attractive appearance due to its design, which emphasizes the hood more than the interior space.
Measuring 185.6 inches in length and featuring a significant 110.8-inch wheelbase, the CX-50 Hybrid extends a bit more than competitors such as the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Subaru Forester. It is also quite similar to these models in most other important measurements, differing by only about an inch.
There is still ample space for four passengers. Individuals up to six feet tall can comfortably sit in both the front and back seats. While the seats might not offer the same level of back support as those in the Mazda 3 or CX-5, they are still quite satisfactory compared to other budget-friendly cars.
The 1.59-kWh nickel-metal-hydride battery pack in the Hybrid has a minimal effect on interior space. Located beneath the rear seat, it causes passengers in the back to sit lower to the floor but higher off the ground. This configuration leads to a slight reduction in legroom, though the difference is so negligible that potential buyers comparing models might not detect it. The Hybrid features a distinct floor structure, and its front frame rails are spaced farther apart, meaning it hasn’t yet received the standard CX-50’s NHTSA five-star and IIHS Top Safety Pick+ safety ratings.
2025 Mazda CX-50 with Hybrid Technology
Mazda CX-50 Hybrid: A Fuel-Efficient AWD Hybrid with Toyota Technology
The engine beneath the surface of the hybrid CX-50 sets it apart from its non-hybrid counterparts. Mazda refers to this as an “eCVT,” but it’s actually the well-known hybrid system from Toyota, similar to what’s found in the RAV4 Hybrid. This system, which utilizes a planetary torque-split mechanism, offers multiple ranges of effective gear ratios to meet varying needs for electrified torque and fuel efficiency.
In this setup, the 2.5-liter inline-four engine from Toyota delivers 176 horsepower and 163 pound-feet of torque. The all-wheel-drive feature is achieved through an electric motor at the rear, which generates 54 horsepower and 89 pound-feet of torque. The overall output of the Toyota hybrid system matches that of the RAV4 Hybrid, offering a total of 219 horsepower and 163 pound-feet of torque.
The Hybrid Model of the Mazda CX-50, Coming in
Hybrid Version of the 2025 Mazda CX-50
Hybrid version of the 2025 Mazda CX-50
The vehicle is rated by the EPA at 39 miles per gallon in the city, 37 on the highway, and 38 miles per gallon overall. Our initial test of the CX-50 Hybrid hinted that these figures might be slightly inflated, but consumers can still expect notable fuel efficiency in regular use with this versatile crossover.
Mazda states that the CX-50 Hybrid weighs 4,008 pounds. This makes it 267 pounds heavier than the standard CX-50 and roughly 100 pounds heavier than the Turbo variant. Despite having a lower towing capacity than other CX-50 models, the CX-50 Hybrid can still tow up to 1,500 pounds, which is sufficient for transporting projects around the city on weekends.
Mazda’s CX-50 Hybrid demonstrates that hybrids may have been the better choice all along, challenging the previous focus on diesel engines. After years of working to introduce a turbo-diesel option to the U.S., Mazda finally released the CX-5 SkyActive-D in 2019. However, it fell short with slower acceleration and only slightly improved fuel efficiency. In contrast, the CX-50 Hybrid accelerates faster to 60 mph than the base CX-50, which takes over eight seconds. Additionally, it surpasses the base model’s 28 mpg combined rating by the EPA. Although it comes with a higher initial cost, this investment is likely to save money on fuel over time.
Mazda CX-50 Hybrid for the Year 2025
To understand why Mazda abandoned its diesel plans and opted for a partnership with Toyota, I decided to test the CX-50 Hybrid on the identical route I had previously driven with the smaller, less impressive CX-5 diesel a few years ago. This nearly 175-mile journey features winding, lively backroads and steep highways around Oregon’s Mt. Hood, with the final 60 miles amidst traffic moving at around 70 mph. Overall, I achieved an average of 35 mpg, which is notably better than the 31 mpg that the diesel model delivered under similar driving conditions.
I subsequently drove the CX-50 on a 53-mile circuit that I frequently use to test various hybrid vehicles. This route includes a total elevation change of 700 feet and features a combination of easy highway driving at speeds below 65 mph, suburban areas with frequent stops, and winding backroads. During this drive, I achieved an average fuel efficiency of 39 miles per gallon. This figure is somewhat lower than the fuel economy I have recorded with the CR-V Hybrid and RAV4 Hybrid on the same route under similar conditions.
Similar to other hybrid models, the CX-50 Hybrid demonstrates impressive fuel efficiency when driven within an optimal range. During my testing, the car maintained an average of approximately 35 miles per gallon while cruising steadily at 70 miles per hour. However, increasing the speed to 75 miles per hour seemed to reduce the efficiency to 32 miles per gallon.
Mazda CX-50 Hybrid, 2025 Model
Mazda CX-50 Hybrid 2025
Mazda CX-50 Hybrid for 2025
Mazda CX-50 Hybrid: A New Take on „Signature Driving Dynamics“
Mazda is well-known for its sporty, high-performance vehicles, and the CX-50 is said to embody the brand’s distinctive driving characteristics. As an enthusiast of the Miata, an advocate for the CX-30, and a fan of the recently launched CX-70 and CX-90, along with valuing the efficiency of Toyota’s hybrid models, I’m yet to be convinced by the driving experience offered by the CX-50 Hybrid.
Initially, I was let down by how cautiously the hybrid system seemed to be adjusted. It seemed out of sync with the CX-50’s dynamic character in terms of appearance, sensation, and design. It failed to inspire any excitement in me.
Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Model for 2025
When you drive a standard CX-30 or a CX-90 plug-in hybrid on a rural road, you might be surprised by the lively and engaging experience. However, the same cannot be said for the CX-50 Hybrid. Unlike other Mazda models, the CX-50 lacks the refined handling, excellent steering, and suspension responsiveness that the brand is known for. Nevertheless, it offers a reasonably comfortable ride, thanks to its softer suspension setup, which includes struts at the front and a torsion-beam design at the rear.
The vehicle lacks a Sport mode, which is reserved for the Turbo model. Instead, my options included Normal, Power, Trail, and another Power mode. Opting for Power mode meant the engine was almost constantly active, reducing the minor delay before achieving full power. However, this did not significantly enhance the CX-50’s responsiveness. While the hybrid system allows you to select lower „gears,“ these do not significantly increase engine braking or regenerative braking on slopes or bends.
Mazda CX-50 Hybrid for 2025
The hybrid transplant enhances the CX-50’s weight distribution to a 55:45 ratio from front to rear. However, this adjustment and the CX-50 Hybrid’s all-wheel-drive system do not significantly enhance driving dynamics in most conditions. Its calibration seems even more subdued than the RAV4’s, and I didn’t sense any torque being directed to the rear wheels during tight turns on wet roads. To confirm the presence of all-wheel drive, I had to stop on a snow-covered gravel pullout on Mt. Hood. At lower speeds and with light acceleration, it provided precise traction to the rear wheels when necessary. Trail mode is designed to maximize grip in low-traction scenarios, but it wasn’t required in this instance.
As my colleagues noted regarding the standard CX-50, the interior is quite noisy, and the hybrid version doesn’t appear to have significantly more sound insulation. The cabin resonates with road noise rather than engine noise, especially at highway speeds unless the road is perfectly smooth. Passengers in the back seats might find long journeys to be quite tiring.
Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Model for 2025
Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Model for 2025
Mazda CX-50 Hybrid 2025
Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Focuses on Affordability
In 2025, Mazda’s entire CX-50 range will include more features without an increase in price. The CX-50 Hybrid is available in three trims: Preferred, Premium, and Premium Plus. The Preferred version, priced at $35,390, includes heated vinyl seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, rain-sensitive windshield wipers, a wireless phone charging pad, and a power-operated tailgate. The Premium trim, costing $38,820, features a panoramic sunroof, a power passenger seat with memory functions, black roof rails and exhaust tips, a 12-speaker Bose sound system, enhanced driver-assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, and an option for red leather seats. The Premium Plus trim, which I tested and is priced at $42,065, comes equipped with 19-inch alloy wheels, ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and side mirrors that power-fold.
The CX-50 Hybrid Preferred comes with extra features compared to the standard non-hybrid models, making it $2,320 pricier than a non-hybrid CX-50 Preferred. Compared to the base non-hybrid CX-50 Select, it costs $3,670 more. For the Premium and Premium Plus trims, the hybrid variants are $3,400 and $2,550 more expensive than their non-hybrid counterparts, respectively.
Overall, the interior design is quite impressive, featuring a straightforward and adjustable gauge cluster, clear visibility, and conveniently positioned cupholders and storage compartments. However, the wireless phone charger in the CX-50 experienced intermittent charging issues not only with my iPhone but also with two other devices during testing.
Mazda CX-50 Hybrid 2025
The CX-50 features a 10.3-inch touchscreen for its infotainment system, which is controlled by a complex menu structure that might still confuse users even after some familiarity. For example, navigating through satellite radio channels or returning to a previous channel unintentionally changed can be cumbersome. The system often requires users to awkwardly navigate back through multiple menus to perform simple actions that should be readily accessible. Fortunately, the system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which function smoothly and may become your go-to option, as Mazda’s system appears to have diminished in capability over recent years.
Mazda offers a comprehensive set of active safety features as standard, which includes automatic emergency braking, blind-spot detection, and a notably unobtrusive active lane control. However, during a basic lead-and-follow adaptive cruise test, the system failed when the traffic decelerated a bit. The car I was trailing switched lanes, and another vehicle was directly in front—forcing me to quickly hit the brake pedal at the last moment.
Mazda CX-50 Hybrid for 2025
Mazda’s CX-50 Hybrid: Neither a Specialty Model Nor the Brand’s Long-Term Plan
Mazda has struggled to find its footing in the eco-friendly vehicle market. Previous efforts, such as the Mazda MX-30 electric vehicle and the SkyActiv-D diesel engine technology, did not live up to expectations. Additionally, several promising innovations, including SkyActiv-X and a rotary engine range extender, never made it to the U.S. market.
The CX-50 appears to be a straightforward chance for Mazda to expand on the thrilling aspects it demonstrated with the lively and well-tuned CX-90 plug-in hybrid. After a few days of testing, the CX-50 comes across as a mainstream, efficiency-focused vehicle that Mazda ideally should have introduced before those more complex technological ventures. However, it lacks the distinctive character we anticipated, even considering the inherent constraints of the hybrid system.
Mazda CX-50 Hybrid 2025 Edition
The CX-50 lacks the inherent sophistication found in the Honda CR-V Hybrid and seems less lively compared to the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.
While initial appearances and exterior charm are important, I would prefer being in a Honda CR-V Hybrid. The Honda offers a more responsive and powerful engine system. Additionally, it provides superior handling, its interior exudes a more luxurious feel, and it optimizes its space more effectively.
Mazda is approaching a new milestone in sales, with projections indicating that 2024 could be the first time it surpasses 400,000 vehicle sales in a year. The company proudly reports an owner loyalty rate exceeding 50%. By 2025, Mazda aims to sell 100,000 units of the CX-50, with hybrid versions expected to comprise 40% of those sales.
Is there a way to make that route a bit more emotional? We’ll let Mazda ponder that while you embark on the journey.
Labels:
Join In:
The Process Explained:
Readers of this article have also shown interest in:
Distribute This Story:
Contact the Editor:
Stay Updated with Us:
Green Car Reports Email Updates
Subscribe for daily updates on green car and environmental news straight to your email!
I consent to getting emails from Green Car Reports and acknowledge that I can opt out whenever I choose. Privacy Policy.
A recent study reveals that almost 60% of Americans expect to transition to driving an electric vehicle over the next decade.
The Polestar 3 series now includes three different models, and the starting price has been reduced.
The Tesla Cybertruck is facing yet another recall.
Lower battery costs can lead to more affordable vehicles, which may enhance the adoption of electric vehicles and strengthen the competitiveness of the U.S. auto industry.
While campaigning, Trump may have inadvertently created opportunities for Chinese companies to penetrate the American automotive industry.
Volkswagen is increasing its investment in Rivian as their collaborative project for software and electrical systems begins to take shape.
The 2025 model range for the Polestar 2 has been streamlined.
Hyundai is set to unveil its electric, three-row Ioniq 9 at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 21.
The Lucid Air may soon be the newest electric vehicle to join police fleets.
Porsche has broadened the range of the Taycan series, now offering a total of 13 different versions by introducing the Taycan 4 and the revamped GTS model.
The Cadillac Vistiq, a three-row SUV model, is anticipated to launch in 2025, positioning itself in the lineup between the Lyriq and Escalade IQ for the 2026 model year.
Associated Stories
Top Picks
Images
Updates
Press
For Retailers
News Feed
Organization
Connect with Us Now:
