2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Review: Drive, Performance & Specs Tested

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid is a big deal for Mazda, really marking their step into the electrified compact SUV market. After spending a good amount of time driving this vehicle in all sorts of conditions, we can honestly say that Mazda has done something pretty impressive here. By leveraging Toyota’s reliable hybrid technology and weaving it into their already appealing CX-50 platform, they’ve come up with a ride that tackles one of the biggest critiques of the non-hybrid CX-50: its fuel efficiency.

So, this CX-50 Hybrid is aiming straight for a hot segment that’s already got heavy hitters like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Honda CR-V Hybrid, Kia Sportage Hybrid, and Ford Escape Hybrid. But what really sets the CX-50 apart in this crowded field is Mazda’s focus on driving enjoyment and that premium feel. You know, it’s for folks who want good mileage but still crave the thrill of driving. During our tests, the CX-50 Hybrid proved to be more engaging than its rivals, even if it sacrifices a bit of practicality for that sporty vibe.

Now, when it comes to trims, the CX-50 Hybrid has three options: Preferred, Premium, and Premium Plus. The Preferred trim kicks off at about $33,976, which offers a solid set of standard features. Then there’s the Premium trim, going for around $37,400, which adds some nice luxury and tech upgrades. Finally, the Premium Plus starts at about $40,050 (and can go up to around $41,920 once you add in destination fees). This top trim really packs in comfort, tech, and style.

What’s particularly intriguing about the CX-50 Hybrid is how Mazda has kept almost all the good stuff from the regular CX-50—like its attractive looks, high-quality interior, and fun driving dynamics—while also ramping up fuel efficiency. The hybrid setup is rated at an EPA-estimated 38 mpg combined (39 in the city and 37 on the highway), which is a nice bump of 10 to 13 mpg compared to the regular versions. Plus, you don’t lose out on all-weather capability since all hybrid models come standard with all-wheel drive, thanks to Toyota’s proven e-AWD system.

In the bigger picture, the CX-50 Hybrid positions itself as a more upscale option compared to mainstream hybrid crossovers but without the luxury price tag. It’s a unique choice for those looking for an efficient all-wheel-drive crossover that offers more driving pleasure and aesthetic flair than the usual utility-based competitors. After a thorough look, we found that while the CX-50 Hybrid might not top the charts in cargo space or sheer efficiency, it really shines in delivering a well-rounded, polished experience that feels special for everyday driving.

At the core of the 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid lies Toyota’s fourth-generation hybrid system, which you might recognize from the RAV4 Hybrid. Pretty smart move by Mazda, right? Instead of starting from scratch, they’re tapping into Toyota’s years of expertise in hybrids. So, this powertrain mixes a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with three electric motors—two up front and one at the back. All together, they pump out 219 horsepower. That puts the hybrid neatly between the base 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine (which gives you 187 hp) and the more robust 2.5-liter turbocharged option that hits 256 hp.

When it comes to power delivery, it’s managed by Toyota’s electronically controlled continuously variable transmission, or eCVT for short. Unlike the traditional belt-driven designs, this one uses a planetary gear system. What’s cool about this? It offers a more direct power feel and is built to last longer than regular CVTs. While we were testing, it was nice to see how smoothly it switched between electric and gas power. Sure, you get a little engine droning when you really push it, but that’s pretty standard for hybrids.

Now, let’s talk about the all-wheel drive system in the CX-50 Hybrid. It’s not your typical mechanical setup that you’d find in non-hybrid models. Instead, it uses something Toyota calls “electronic on-demand AWD.” What this means is that there’s an electric motor that powers the rear wheels independently, and there’s no driveshaft linking the axles. This clever design allows for precise torque distribution to the rear wheels when needed while mostly sticking to front-wheel drive in usual driving conditions to save gas. We tested it out in different scenarios, and it really showed its mettle, engaging the rear wheels just when we needed extra traction—without us having to do anything.

As for acceleration, it was pretty decent. Our tests clocked the 0-60 mph time anywhere from 7.3 to 8.3 seconds, depending on how we were testing it. The fastest times came when we used brake-torquing techniques, while normal starts usually landed in the high 7-second range. This places the CX-50 Hybrid right in the middle of the competition—not as speedy as some turbocharged rivals, but definitely more sprightly than many of those focused purely on efficiency. The immediate torque from the electric motors gives it a nice jump off the line, making city driving feel a bit zippier than the numbers might suggest.

You also get three different drive modes in the CX-50 Hybrid that change how the powertrain behaves: Normal for everyday use, Power for when you want a little extra kick, and Trail for better grip in light off-road situations. There’s even a dedicated EV mode button that lets you run on electric power alone at low speeds—assuming the battery’s got enough juice. In our tests, we noticed that Power mode did enhance throttle response and gave that initial acceleration a nice boost, although the difference in full-throttle acceleration across the modes wasn’t huge. The Trail mode does a good job of tweaking traction control and power distribution to help on loose or bumpy surfaces.

Now, here’s a downside: Towing capacity takes a hit with the hybrid compared to its turbocharged sibling. The CX-50 Turbo can tow up to 3,500 pounds, but the hybrid is capped at 1,500 pounds. That’s fine for small trailers or gear, but not so great if you’re thinking about hauling something heavier. This is pretty much par for the course with hybrid crossovers in this segment, with the RAV4 Hybrid slightly edging out with a 1,750-pound rating.

The braking system on the 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid features 12.8-inch ventilated disc brakes in the front and solid 12.8-inch discs in the back. This setup ensures reliable stopping power regardless of the driving conditions you might encounter. Now, if we compare it to the regular CX-50 models, the hybrid version includes something pretty neat—a regenerative braking system. This tech captures kinetic energy when you’re slowing down to charge up the hybrid battery, which is a smart way to make the most of that energy. The cool part? It’s all combined with the standard friction brakes, but, of course, it takes some fine-tuning to keep that brake pedal feeling natural.

When we put it to the test, we noticed the brake pedal had a nice initial bite and offered good resistance as you pressed down. You won’t get that weird, disconnected feeling that sometimes comes with hybrids. The switch between regenerative braking and normal braking feels smooth, with hardly any noticeable change, which is great. This kind of integration adds to the upscale driving vibe Mazda is known for, making the CX-50 Hybrid feel pretty familiar and predictable—definitely a step above many rivals.

In our instrumented testing, the CX-50 Hybrid showed decent stopping distances, needing about 183 feet to come to a stop from 70 mph on our test surface. Now, sure, it’s not the absolute best in its class, but it performs well, especially considering it’s carrying around 267 pounds more weight from the hybrid components compared to the base engine model. The braking held up nicely through multiple hard stops, too, showing good resistance to fading over time.

And there’s more! The CX-50 Hybrid comes with an auto-hold function. This handy feature keeps the brakes engaged when you’re stopped so you can take your foot off the pedal at traffic lights or during those frustrating stop-and-go moments. It works quietly in the background and lets go as soon as you hit the gas. Plus, the electronic parking brake kicks in automatically when you park and can be set to disengage when you shift into gear, as long as you’ve got your seatbelt on.

One thing we did notice during our tests was that the regenerative braking system in this hybrid seems to be dialed back a bit compared to some of its competitors. Unlike other hybrids that allow you to drive with just one pedal or give you several levels of regeneration, the CX-50 Hybrid sticks to a more traditional feel. This approach fits with Mazda’s goal of keeping driving engaging, although some folks might wish for a bit more aggressive energy recovery to boost efficiency.

The steering system in the 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid really shows off Mazda’s dedication to creating a fun driving experience, even when they’re focusing on efficiency. You’ve got this electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering that delivers precise control—it’s got just the right weight to balance effort and feedback. When we took it for a spin on some winding back roads, the steering felt responsive and communicative. Honestly, it gave us a level of confidence that a lot of other hybrids in the crossover space just can’t match.

Kudos to Mazda’s engineers, really! They’ve tuned the steering so well that it filters out those annoying vibrations but still keeps you connected to the road. This system does a great job of maintaining consistent weighting at different speeds, steering clear of that overly light feel some electric systems suffer from at lower speeds. What about the steering ratio? Spot on—it requires just enough input to make direction changes without feeling too twitchy. Sure, it might not be as sharp as Mazda’s sportier models, but the steering in the CX-50 Hybrid is still one of the best in the compact crossover class.

Now, let’s talk about suspension. It’s got MacPherson struts up front and a torsion beam setup in the back. This is a bit different from the fully independent suspension you’d find in the CX-5, but it’s a smart compromise that accommodates the hybrid components while keeping that classic Mazda handling feel. Even with a simpler rear suspension design, Mazda has tuned it to deliver impressive body control and a smooth ride. Honestly, the chassis feels much more planted and responsive compared to rivals like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and Honda CR-V Hybrid.

Ride quality can change a bit depending on the wheel size. The Preferred and Premium trims come with 17-inch wheels, which make for a comfy ride over bumpy roads, soaking up impacts like a champ. The Premium Plus trim, with its 19-inch wheels, gives up some of that comfort for sharper responses and a sleeker look. When we tested the larger wheels, we felt a firmer ride that let in a bit more of those road imperfections, but it never crossed into harsh territory. So, if comfort is your main priority, the smaller wheels might be the way to go.

When it comes to cornering, body roll is kept in check, which really boosts your confidence behind the wheel—especially for a crossover. The CX-50 Hybrid handles quick direction changes smoothly and stays stable, even when you push it a bit. The suspension is well-tuned to manage the extra weight from the hybrid components, and it doesn’t really mess with the handling that makes the standard CX-50 so enjoyable to drive. Plus, with a ground clearance of 8.1 inches on the 19-inch wheels (7.8 inches for the 17-inch ones), it’s got enough capability for some light off-road adventures without losing its on-road prowess.

Mazda had to make some significant upgrades to the lower chassis and even redesign the rear subframe to fit the Toyota hybrid powertrain, but they’ve done it with a lot of thought. Even with these changes, the driving experience still feels cohesive and, well, very much “Mazda.” Interestingly, the weight distribution is now slightly better than in the non-hybrid model, sitting at a 55/45 front-to-rear ratio. This helps with the balanced handling dynamics, which we noticed during our test drives.

For the entry-level Preferred and the mid-range Premium trims, you get 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels fitted with all-season tires. Then, if you opt for the Premium Plus, you get a step up to 19-inch alloy wheels along with 225/55R19 all-season tires—specifically, we had Goodyear Eagle Touring on our test model. These choices strike a nice balance, you know, between comfort, efficiency, and handling various weather conditions.

During our testing, we noticed that the 17-inch tires really shine when it comes to ride quality. They do a better job of soaking up road imperfections than the bigger wheels do. This was especially noticeable on rough or uneven pavement, where those smaller tires flex more, providing a smoother ride. Plus, the 17-inch setup tends to keep things quieter inside the cabin, which is great for long highway drives. So, if comfort is your top priority, the Preferred and Premium trims are definitely worth considering.

On the flip side, the 19-inch tires found on the Premium Plus trim offer some perks like better cornering stability and quicker steering response. This really amps up the fun factor when you’re driving. The larger tire contact patches give you more grip, which means you can tackle those twisty roads with a bit more confidence. But, and this is important, you do have to deal with a firmer ride and a bit more road noise. And let’s not forget, those bigger wheels do make the CX-50 look pretty sporty and upscale—it definitely adds to its overall appeal!

When it comes to all-weather performance, both tire options held their own in our tests. The all-season tires provide decent traction in light snow and wet conditions, which pairs nicely with the standard all-wheel drive. But if you live in a place that sees heavy winter weather, you might want to consider getting dedicated winter tires, even though the all-wheel drive system is pretty capable.

Also worth mentioning is how the tires impact fuel economy. The 17-inch wheels might give you a slight edge in efficiency because they have lower rolling resistance compared to the wider 19-inch tires. While the difference isn’t huge, it could lead to minor variations in real-world fuel economy across the different trims. In our experience, vehicles with those 17-inch wheels tended to hit closer to the EPA’s fuel economy estimates than those with the 19-inch options.

Lastly, it’s interesting to note that Mazda doesn’t provide any alternate tire packages or all-terrain options for the CX-50 Hybrid. Some competitors do offer tougher tire choices for off-road enthusiasts, but that’s not really the case here. The CX-50 is designed to be a solid performer on the road and can handle light off-road conditions pretty well. The standard all-season tires did just fine for the “Trail” driving mode during our tests on unpaved paths and light trails.

Stepping inside the 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid, you can really see how the brand is pushing into more upscale territory. The cabin genuinely feels like it’s in a league of its own, well above what most mainstream rivals offer. Right off the bat, we were taken in by the dashboard’s horizontal layout. It’s got this clean, minimalist vibe, and the materials used are Top-notch.

The dashboard itself is layered, featuring soft-touch surfaces and nice contrast stitching, plus real leather on the higher trims. It all comes together to create an atmosphere that could easily compete with some luxury brands out there.

Now, let’s talk about the materials. They’re impressive across the board. The Preferred trim comes with leatherette seating that feels pretty solid, while the Premium trim ups the ante with genuine leather. The Premium Plus takes it a step further by offering either black leather with contrasting brown stitching or, for the hybrid variant, a bold deep red leather option that definitely adds some flair without being over the top. And honestly, the leather is fantastic—fine grain, sturdy stitching, it’s built to last. One small note, though: the seat cushioning leans more towards firmness than plush comfort. So, if you’re someone who prefers a softer ride, you might want to keep that in mind.

The cockpit is all about the driver, with controls easily within reach—smart design that keeps distractions to a minimum while you’re on the road. The steering wheel, wrapped in leather, feels great in your hands, but we were kind of surprised that even the top-tier Premium Plus trim doesn’t come with heated steering. At this price point, you’d think that would be a given.

The infotainment system centers around a 10.25-inch display with Mazda Connect software, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration across all trim levels. While the native interface operates primarily through a rotary controller rather than touch inputs, the system allows touchscreen functionality when using smartphone mirroring applications, providing flexibility based on user preference. During our testing, the wireless connectivity proved reliable, maintaining stable connections without the frequent disconnections that plague some systems.

When it comes to the instrument cluster, it mixes analog gauges with a 7-inch digital screen displaying hybrid-specific info. However, we did notice it doesn’t have some of the detailed power flow visuals you’d find in rivals like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, which is a bit of a letdown. While not as comprehensive as fully digital displays found in some competitors, the hybrid-specific displays provide useful information about energy flow, battery charge state, and efficiency metrics. The Premium Plus trim adds a color head-up display that projects critical information onto the windshield, including speed, navigation directions, and safety alerts, allowing drivers to maintain focus on the road.

You can tell Mazda paid attention to detail throughout the cabin. The switchgear works smoothly and feels satisfying to use. The climate controls stick to physical buttons and knobs, which is a smart move—much easier to navigate while driving. The volume and tuning knobs are also well-placed, but some features require you to fiddle with the commander control knob on the center console, which can be a little annoying.

As for the ambient lighting, it’s subtle rather than flashy, really adding to that sophisticated vibe. If you opt for the Premium or Premium Plus trims, you’ll enjoy a panoramic sunroof that lets in tons of natural light, making the space feel even larger without sacrificing headroom too much. The piano black trim looks nice but let’s be real, it shows fingerprints and dust like nobody’s business—definitely something to think about.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid really keeps that eye-catching look of its standard model, but it has some neat tweaks to fit the hybrid setup. You can see Mazda’s KODO “Soul of Motion” design shining through, giving it a more rugged and purposeful vibe. It’s got a longer hood, a wider stance, and fenders that pop out more than the CX-5, which is pretty similar in size. During our time with it, the CX-50 Hybrid caught a lot of eyes and sparked plenty of conversations, standing out in a sea of more ordinary-looking crossovers.

About the front: It showcases Mazda’s classic five-point grille, which has a cool chainlink fence design for that glossy black insert. Flanking it are these sleek LED headlights that come standard on all trims. If you go for the Premium Plus trim, you get adaptive front lighting—great for those night drives. Down on the front bumper, there are functional air intakes that help with cooling and aerodynamics. Plus, the bold black cladding makes it clear that this vehicle is ready for adventure. Oh, and they’ve made the hybrid version even tougher with thicker cladding around the wheel arches and rocker panels to support that slightly lifted ride height for the battery.

Now, shifting to the side, the CX-50 Hybrid keeps those sporty proportions we love. With a long hood and a cab-rearward design, it has strong character lines that give off a feeling of movement, even when it’s parked. You’ll spot a subtle “hybrid” badge on the front fenders—this is your visual cue that it’s got an electrified powertrain. For wheels, the Preferred and Premium trims roll on 17-inch aluminum alloy, while the Premium Plus gets upgraded to snazzier 19-inch wheels with a two-tone finish. The black roof rails (glossy on higher trims) really amp up that adventurous look, plus they’re handy for mounting accessories.

At the back, you’ve got full LED taillights that have a signature lighting effect—those turn signals elegantly fade in and out. The tailgate is all about clean lines with a modest spoiler integrated into the roofline. Even the hybrid keeps dual exhaust outlets with chrome finishers, so it still looks sporty despite being all about efficiency. The rear bumper echoes that bold black cladding from the front, tying the whole design together nicely.

Mazda also offers a tempting color selection for the CX-50 Hybrid. You’ve got the standout Soul Red Crystal Metallic, which brings depth and flair thanks to its complex multi-layer paint job. Our test ride in Polymetal Gray Metallic showed off the body’s curves beautifully, with the paint shifting between blue and gray, depending on how the light hit it. Other color options include Machine Gray Metallic and Zircon Sand Metallic, each showcasing different design features. The premium paint choices do add between $395 and $595 to the price tag, but honestly, the visual payoff—especially with that Soul Red—totally makes it worth it for a lot of buyers.

Let’s talk about the seats first. The front seats offer an 8-way power adjustment for the driver (and there’s a memory function on the Premium and Premium Plus trims), while passengers in higher trims get a 6-way power adjustment. After some long drives, we found the seats to be supportive for those extended journeys. However, a few testers mentioned that the cushioning felt a bit firmer compared to some rivals. If you go for the Preferred trim, you’ll get heated front seats as standard, and the Premium Plus throws in ventilated seats, which can be a lifesaver in hot weather. And speaking of heating, it warms up quickly, which is great for those chilly mornings.

About climate control—the CX-50 Hybrid uses a dual-zone automatic system. It’s got these straightforward physical controls that let you adjust things without taking your eyes off the road. The system does a good job of keeping the temperature steady and runs quietly at lower fan speeds. Plus, rear passengers have their own air vents in the center console, so everyone gets good airflow. If you opt for the Premium or Premium Plus trims, you’ll enjoy a big panoramic sunroof with a power sunshade, letting in tons of natural light and making the cabin feel more spacious. You can even open the front part of the sunroof for a nice breeze, and there’s a wind deflector that helps reduce that annoying buffeting when you’re cruising at higher speeds.

When it comes to storage, the cabin’s got some clever solutions, even if it’s not the absolute best in terms of space. The center console has a decent-sized bin with USB-C charging ports inside. There’s also a smaller area in front of the shifter that has a wireless charging pad, which is standard on all hybrid trims. The cupholders can fit regular drink containers, but if you’ve got super tall bottles, they might get in the way of the climate controls up above. The door pockets have dedicated holders for bottles and extra space for smaller items, too. And let’s not forget about the glove compartment—it’s reasonably sized and has a two-tier design to help keep things organized.

Now, moving on to tech. It’s all about being functional rather than flashy here, with a standard 10.25-inch display up high on the dashboard for easy visibility. While it’s not a touchscreen for regular functions, it does allow touch input when you’re using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, both of which connect wirelessly right out of the box. Day-to-day use is mainly through a rotary controller on the center console. It works pretty well once you get the hang of it, though some folks might find it a bit less intuitive compared to just tapping on a screen. If you go for the Premium or Premium Plus trims, you get a 12-speaker Bose audio system that delivers solid sound quality with nice clarity and bass. Plus, the Premium Plus has a head-up display, which projects important info onto the windshield so you can keep your eyes on the road.

Convenience is also a big deal here. All trims come with keyless entry and push-button start as standard features. Every hybrid model has a power liftgate, though you won’t find hands-free operation like on some competitors. The automatic rain-sensing wipers and auto-dimming mirrors (available on Premium and Premium Plus trims) adjust to changing weather without you having to lift a finger. While the CX-50 Hybrid might not lead the pack in any single area of comfort or convenience, its overall approach results in a refined and less stressful environment—perfect for both your daily commute and those longer road trips.

Mazda’s drive mode selector offers Normal, Power, and Trail modes, each adjusting powertrain response, stability control parameters, and power distribution to suit different driving scenarios. The Trail mode, in particular, demonstrates sophisticated calibration, modifying traction control thresholds and optimizing the electronic all-wheel drive system’s power distribution to enhance capability on loose or uneven surfaces. Additionally, the dedicated EV mode button allows for limited all-electric operation at low speeds when the battery has sufficient charge, though the range is limited to very short distances.

The electronic all-wheel drive system represents advanced engineering, using a rear-mounted electric motor to provide power to the rear wheels independently of the front powertrain. This arrangement eliminates the need for a mechanical driveshaft, reducing weight and complexity while offering precise control over torque distribution. During our off-road testing, the system demonstrated good capability in directing power away from slipping wheels, though it lacks the more sophisticated terrain management systems found in some competitors.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid is packed with a whole bunch of safety features and driver assistance tech that come standard across all trim levels. Now, just a heads-up—the hybrid version hasn’t been officially crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS yet. However, the regular CX-50 did pretty well, snagging a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS and a solid 5-star overall rating from NHTSA. Given that these models are structurally similar, we’re optimistic that the hybrid will keep those high safety standards, too.

Now, let’s talk about the active safety systems. It comes with Mazda’s full i-Activsense package, which includes stuff like automatic emergency braking that can detect pedestrians, lane departure warning with lane-keeping assist, and blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. When we tested these features, they worked quite well—no annoying false alarms or jarring interventions. The blind spot monitoring was especially handy, considering the CX-50 has these big C-pillars that create bigger blind spots compared to some rivals.

The adaptive cruise control is another nice touch. It can handle stop-and-go traffic smoothly, keeping a safe distance without sudden stops or starts. Now, unlike some other systems that can keep you centered in your lane all the time, the CX-50 Hybrid’s setup is more about preventing you from drifting out. This fits right in with Mazda’s idea of keeping drivers engaged instead of letting them zone out with too much automation. Just a little note, though—the radar detection can sometimes struggle when the weather gets really bad, which is a bit of a downside compared to some camera-based systems out there.

Moving on to the Premium Plus trim, you get some neat extras like traffic sign recognition. This feature displays speed limits and other important signs right in the head-up display. Plus, there’s adaptive front lighting that turns the headlights to shine better around corners. All models come with automatic high beams that adjust for oncoming traffic, and the LED headlights are pretty well calibrated, performing well in visibility tests. The CX-50 Hybrid also has a driver attention alert system that keeps an eye out for signs of tiredness or distraction, giving you a nudge if it notices any dodgy driving habits.

As for passive safety, you’ve got advanced front and side airbags, including side torso airbags for rear passengers—a feature that’s not always standard in this class. The hybrid also comes with Mazda’s “rear seat alert” system, which is a reminder to check the back seat before you leave, but it doesn’t have the fancier rear occupant detection that some rivals do. The rear seats feature special guides for the seat belts to help smaller passengers get a better fit, which is a nice safety consideration. And on the security side, you’ve got an engine immobilizer, an anti-theft alarm, and automatic door locking when you walk away with the key fob.

Getting behind the wheel of the 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid, you can really feel that it stands out in the compact hybrid crossover crowd. Right off the bat, it gives off a sense of solidity and refinement that might surprise you, considering it’s aimed at the mainstream market. When you take off from a stop, the acceleration feels smooth and linear. Thanks to the electric motor, you get that instant torque that makes any lag from the hybrid system pretty much disappear. In our tests, we clocked 0-60 mph times anywhere from 7.3 to 8.3 seconds, depending on the conditions and how we tested it. The best times? Yeah, we got those using some brake-torquing tricks that let the hybrid system unleash its full power right from the start.

The hybrid system itself, sourced from Toyota, works like a charm most of the time. You’ll notice smooth shifts between electric and gas power. The electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (eCVT) does a good job managing the power delivery. But there’s a bit of engine droning when you really push on the gas since it keeps the engine in its sweet spot. It’s something you’ll find in most hybrids, and honestly, you get used to it after a while. For everyday driving, though, it’s pretty quiet and efficient—often, it just runs on electric power when you’re cruising at lower speeds or coasting.

Where the CX-50 Hybrid really shines is in how it handles. The steering response is spot-on. It feels just right—not too heavy, but still gives you solid feedback. The suspension is tuned to strike a nice balance between comfort and handling. It soaks up road bumps without losing control during turns. When you take it out on some twisty roads, it feels stable and composed, with barely any body roll and predictable handling. Honestly, it’s just a fun drive—something that a lot of other fuel-efficient cars don’t quite manage.

The electronic all-wheel drive system is pretty slick too. Most of the time, it drives the front wheels to keep things efficient. But when you need that extra grip, the rear motor kicks in smoothly and quickly, giving you confidence in all sorts of weather. If you switch to Trail mode, it adjusts the traction control and power distribution, which helps when you’re on loose or bumpy surfaces. Now, it’s not exactly an off-road beast, but we found that it handled dirt roads and light trails pretty well during our tests. The 8.1 inches of ground clearance (with the 19-inch wheels) is decent enough to tackle most obstacles.

Let’s talk fuel efficiency—probably the main reason you’d even consider a hybrid. We were genuinely impressed during our tests. In mixed driving, we were consistently hitting around 34-37 mpg, which is pretty close to the EPA’s claims of 39 mpg in the city, 37 on the highway, and 38 combined. On the highway, we saw slightly lower numbers than the EPA rating, likely because of the CX-50’s shape, which isn’t as aerodynamic as the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid that shares the same powertrain. Still, it’s a big step up from the standard CX-50s, potentially saving drivers between 10-13 mpg, depending on how you drive and the conditions you’re in.

As for road noise, it was mostly kept in check, but if you opt for the 19-inch wheels, you might hear a bit more tire noise on rough surfaces compared to the 17-inch ones. Wind noise is minimal, even when you’re flying down the highway, which definitely adds to that premium feel. The brake pedal feels natural and smooth, steering clear of that weird, artificial sensation that some hybrid braking systems give you. All in all, the driving experience blends Mazda’s engaging spirit with a nice boost in efficiency. It’s a great choice for folks looking to cut down on fuel use without giving up on the fun of driving.

The back seating area of the 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid isn’t quite groundbreaking, but it does offer decent space and comfort for adults. It’s not going to win any awards for roominess in the compact crossover category, though. Officially, Mazda says you get 39.8 inches of rear legroom and 38 inches of headroom, which puts it right in the middle of the pack when you compare it to others. We had a chance to test it out with adults of different heights, and guess what? Passengers up to about 6 feet tall seemed to fit just fine behind a driver of similar size, but there’s definitely less extra room than you’d find in rivals like the Honda CR-V Hybrid or Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.

About the rear bench—it’s made from the same quality materials as the front seats. In the Preferred trim, you’ll find leatherette and cloth, while the Premium and Premium Plus models boast genuine leather. What about the cushioning? Well, it leans more towards firmness than plush comfort, which some folks appreciated for support but others wished there was a bit more padding for those longer trips. A bit of a downside is that the rear seats in the CX-50 Hybrid don’t recline or slide, which could limit how comfy passengers feel. This is probably a trade-off to make room for the hybrid battery tucked away under the rear seat.

Now, let’s talk about some nice features for those riding in the back. There are dedicated air vents at the back of the center console—super handy for keeping airflow nice and breezy, no matter the weather outside. Plus, you’ve got two USB-C charging ports right there, easy to reach between the front seats. The center armrest folds down, revealing two cupholders, which are just the right size for standard drinks. What about the door pockets? They’ve got bottle holders and some extra storage, but they’re not as roomy as the ones up front. If you opt for the Premium or Premium Plus trims, you’ll also enjoy a panoramic sunroof that stretches over the back seats, letting in plenty of natural light and making the space feel more open.

When it comes to getting in and out, the doors swing open at a pretty good angle, but taller passengers might have to duck a bit because of the sloping roofline. Thankfully, the door openings are wide enough for child seats without too much fuss, and the ISOFIX anchors for those seats are easy to get to with clear markings. We found that installing different child restraint systems was pretty straightforward, and they felt stable once secured. The center seat can squeeze in a third passenger for short trips, but it’s worth noting that the slight transmission tunnel hump and narrower seat can make it a bit uncomfortable for adults on longer journeys.

So, in the grand scheme of things, while the rear seating area isn’t the biggest in its class, it does offer a comfy spot for two adults or three kids on regular trips. The materials feel nice, and the thoughtful features give it a more premium vibe compared to many competitors. It aligns well with Mazda’s upscale image while still being practical for families. For those who often have adult passengers in the back, other options like the Honda CR-V Hybrid might give a bit more space, but the CX-50 Hybrid does a solid job of meeting most family needs.

The cargo space in the 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid has its practical perks, even if its size doesn’t quite match up to some of the leaders in its class. You’ve got about 29.2 cubic feet behind the back seats, which is a bit less than the non-hybrid version’s 31.4 cubic feet—thanks to the battery taking up some room. Now, sure, that’s less than what you’d find in rivals like the Honda CR-V Hybrid (39.3 cubic feet) or the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (37.5 cubic feet). But, honestly, when we put it to the test, we found the space to be really well-designed and super functional for day-to-day stuff.

The load floor is at a nice height, making it easier to load and unload heavier items. Plus, the wide opening gives you easy access to the whole cargo area. And let’s not forget the standard power liftgate available on all hybrid trims—it works smoothly. You can pop it open with your key fob, hit a button inside, or use the switch on the liftgate itself. Sure, it doesn’t have the fancy hands-free feature (you know, the foot-activated sensors that some competitors offer), but hey, it’s still pretty handy when you’re juggling groceries or packages.

One of the standout features is the remote seat-folding levers in the cargo area. They let you fold down the 60/40-split rear seats without having to trek around to the side doors. They work like a charm and create a nearly flat load floor once the seats are down, boosting cargo space to 56.3 cubic feet. Okay, it’s still less than some competitors, but it gets the job done for most hauling needs. We had no trouble fitting in bigger items like bikes and furniture, although the sloped roofline does put a cap on how tall those bulkier things can be.

Unlike some hybrids that ditch the spare tire to make room for battery parts, the CX-50 Hybrid keeps a temporary spare tire tucked under the cargo floor. This is such a practical touch, especially for those longer trips where roadside assistance might not be just around the corner. The cargo floor itself is solid and can handle heavier items without feeling weak or bending. Plus, there are small storage compartments on either side to keep smaller stuff from rolling around while you’re driving.

Inside the cargo area, you’ll find tie-down points to secure your load and a 12-volt power outlet in the Premium and Premium Plus trims. Speaking of the Premium Plus, it also comes with a retractable cargo cover to hide your valuables from view. So, while the CX-50 Hybrid might not lead the pack in sheer volume, its cargo area is definitely well thought out, making it super usable for everyday life—all while keeping the sleek look of the vehicle intact.

After putting the 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid through its paces in all sorts of driving situations and real-world scenarios, we can finally tackle the big question on the minds of potential buyers: Is this car really worth the extra cash compared to the regular CX-50 or other hybrid crossovers? Well, the answer isn’t straightforward. We need to take a closer look at several things, starting with how the pricing stacks up across the three trims available.

So, here’s the breakdown: the Preferred trim kicks off at around $33,976, the Premium is about $37,400, and the Premium Plus comes in at $40,050 (which can go up to about $41,920 once you add in destination fees). That means you’re looking at a price bump of roughly $2,000 to $3,600 compared to non-hybrid CX-50 models.

Now, if we look at it from a financial standpoint, the hybrid really starts to shine when you think about fuel savings over time. With an EPA estimate of 38 mpg combined, compared to the base engine’s 28 mpg, a typical driver who travels about 15,000 miles a year could save roughly $620 annually on gas (assuming gas is around $4 a gallon). Doing the math, it seems like you’d break even on the hybrid’s extra cost in about four years. That’s pretty reasonable for most folks who have owned a car for a while. Plus, the hybrid system might even boost resale value, especially as more people are looking for fuel-efficient used cars.

But there’s more to it than just dollars and cents. Driving the CX-50 Hybrid is a noticeably smoother experience than with the standard 2.5-liter engine. You get a better response at lower speeds and much less noise when you’re gently accelerating or cruising. Sure, it might not have the kick of the turbocharged option, but it strikes a nice balance between being responsive and efficient—something that many drivers will appreciate for everyday use. And let’s not forget, all hybrid trims come with all-wheel drive as standard, which is a nice bonus since you won’t have to pay extra for that feature.

When you stack it up against competitors like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Honda CR-V Hybrid, and Kia Sportage Hybrid, the CX-50 really stands out as a more premium and enjoyable choice. It does come with a bit of a price tag compared to Toyota and Honda—about $2,000 depending on which trim you’re looking at—and while it might not have as much interior space, it makes up for that with better driving dynamics, higher-quality materials, and a unique design. The Kia does offer a longer warranty and a slightly lower price, but it can’t quite match the Mazda in terms of driving feel or luxury inside.

Now, looking at the trim levels, each one has its own value story. The entry-level Preferred trim is pretty impressive, featuring leatherette seating, heated front seats, and the full i-Activsense safety suite. It’s a solid pick for those who want hybrid efficiency without skimping on comfort or tech. Then there’s the mid-tier Premium, which really ups the ante with leather seating, a panoramic sunroof, and a Bose audio system—this is where many buyers might find their sweet spot. The top-tier Premium Plus throws in extras like ventilated seats and a head-up display, but it’s edging into entry-luxury price territory.

At the end of the day, the 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid offers great value for those who care about driving enjoyment, quality interiors, and unique styling, all while being fuel-efficient. It might not be the biggest or cheapest option out there, but it’s an appealing choice for anyone looking for a more upscale experience without the luxury price tag. The hybrid powertrain really tackles the main downside of the standard CX-50—fuel efficiency—while keeping all the traits that help it stand out in a busy market. If you’re after the best mix of features and value, we’d suggest going for the Premium trim. It gives you the key luxury features without jumping to the higher price of the Premium Plus.