The Mazda CX-50 Hybrid marks an exciting milestone in Mazda’s lineup, blending rugged capability with eco-friendly efficiency. Developed in collaboration with Toyota, this hybrid crossover benefits from shared expertise in advanced hybrid technology while retaining Mazda’s distinctive design and driving dynamics. Designed to cater to drivers seeking a versatile SUV that doesn’t compromise on style or performance, the CX-50 Hybrid offers a compelling alternative in the competitive hybrid SUV segment.
Expanding on the success of the standard CX-50, Mazda’s newest hybrid entry steps into a fiercely competitive market, targeting rivals like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and Honda CR-V Hybrid. Leveraging Toyota’s industry-leading hybrid system, the CX-50 Hybrid pairs efficiency with capability, making it ideal for both urban commutes and off-road excursions. Manufactured as part of Mazda’s partnership with Toyota in a shared facility in Alabama, the CX-50 Hybrid reflects a blend of Mazda’s craftsmanship and Toyota’s hybrid expertise. After the arrival of the CX-90 and the CX-70, the CX-50 Hybrid solidifies Mazda’s commitment to hybridization of their model lineup.
Visually, the 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid looks identical to the non-hybrid with few small differences, like the Hybrid badges on the front fenders and the trunk. It continues to embody the rugged yet refined aesthetic that defines Mazda’s latest design language. However, unlike the other Mazda SUVs, the CX-50 has a layer of rugged looks with pronounced fender flares and elevated ground clearance, highlighting its off-road-readiness. Thankfully Mazda didn’t try to reinvent the wheel for the Hybrid version, it still has its signature wide and angular front grille, flanked by slim LED headlights that contribute to its sharp and modern look.
The side profile of the Mazda CX-50 Hybrid emphasizes a nice balance of sleek, and dynamic design language with the sculpted body lines, bold wheel arches with a more rugged stance, and a slightly sloped roofline that gives a sportier silhouette. Depending on the trim, 18″ or 19″ wheels are available. Our tester was the top GT trim, with black metallic 19″ alloy wheels that give the CX-50 a sportier look.
Just like the rest of the vehicle, the rear end offers a sleek and athletic design that complements its dynamic stance. The sharp and angular lines continue in the tailgate with a wide stance. There are no design gimmicks here, including the real exhaust tips which enhance the athletic aesthetic. Overall, the CX-50 offers a nice balance between sophistication and rugged appeal, making it a standout in its class like most modern Mazdas.
The interior of the CX-50 is mostly unchanged for 2025, it still looks fresh and upscale. The dashboard design is clean and minimalistic, featuring high-quality materials including soft-touch plastics and leather accents. The attention to detail is quite impressive with the stitching on the seats, and the dashboard. The centrepiece of the interior is the 10.25-inch infotainment display, which is controlled via a rotary dial.
It comes with Mazda’s latest infotainment system and it is one of the most intuitive systems available, but Mazda didn’t spend a lot of time customizing the infotainment system for the hybrid drivetrain, as it doesn’t show a lot of information about the hybrid powertrain. The touchscreen can be used for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which makes it much easier to operate when you stop. However, Mazda still keeps the screen far from the driver, encouraging occupants to use the rotary knob whenever possible.
The front seats provide excellent support with a blend of firmness and the right amount of cushioning. The heated and ventilated seats are available with the top trim, along with the heated steering wheel. However, the heated steering wheel only heats the side portion, which is a missed opportunity for an SUV that claims to be more premium than the other entries. The rear-seat passengers benefit from a surprising amount of legroom for a compact SUV, unlike its corporate sibling, the CX-5. The CX-50 feels significantly roomier inside, and wider from the outside. Even with the hybrid drivetrain, there is almost no compromise, as the rear seats fold down flat.
The CX-50 Hybrid offers a decent amount of cargo space and overall practicality, with its 31.4 cubic feet (889 litres), which is slightly less cargo space behind the rear seats compared to the non-hybrid CX-50. However, when the rear seats are folded down, the cargo capacity is nearly identical to the non-hybrid version, offering 56.3 cubic feet (1594 litres). The CX-50 offers a wide trunk opening with a lower load height, making it easy to manage large or heavy items.
The Mazda CX-50 Hybrid features a drivetrain that showcases a strategic collaboration between Mazda and Toyota. It is not the first partnership Toyota has done, they have collaborated with other Japanese brands in the past. However, the collaboration is a lot more than using the same drivetrain, as the CX-50 is manufactured at the Mazda Toyota Manufacturing plant in Alabama.
In the CX-50’s case, Mazda decided to leverage Toyota’s expertise in hybrid technology. Under the hood, the CX-50 Hybrid pairs a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine with a hybrid electric system, delivering a combined output of approximately 219 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque. The setup is identical to what is found in Toyota’s RAV4 Hybrid, which has already proven its reliability and efficiency.
Just like the RAV4, the drivetrain is mated to an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (eCVT), optimizing power delivery for smoothness and fuel economy. The collaboration with Toyota has allowed Mazda to integrate the hybrid system, including regenerative braking and electric motor technology that ensures seamless transitions between electric and gasoline power. The hybrid system allows the CX-50 to achieve an estimated fuel economy of around 6.2L/100 km combined at least on paper, however, our test results were more than 7.0L/100 km due to cold weather.
The other specs are identical to the RAV4. It has a 1.6 kWh nickel-metal battery pack with three electric motors, one motor sends power to the rear wheels with an eAWD system in the back, and there are two electric motors in the engine. However, the differences start with the suspension system with a strut front suspension and a torsion beam in the back, which is tuned for the hybrid drivetrain’s increased weight.
The Mazda CX-50 Hybrid offers a solid driving experience, though it’s not quite as engaging as its non-hybrid models. While the Toyota-sourced system is focused on fuel economy, it lacks the more dynamic feel of Mazda’s traditional mechanical AWD systems. This results in a somewhat detached driving experience, with less of the connected, responsive feel that Mazda is known for. The absence of a mechanical connection between the front and rear axles, and the lack of a traditional gearset, means that the driving sensation lacks some of the precision and engagement you’d expect from a typical Mazda.
At higher RPMs, the naturally aspirated engine tends to become buzzy, contributing to higher noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels compared to Mazda’s more refined engines. This diminishes the premium feel that Mazda’s gas-powered models are known for, especially at highway speeds. However, in urban environments and stop-and-go traffic, the hybrid drivetrain excels. The engine switches off when the vehicle can run on electric power alone, and the hybrid system is tuned to prioritize fuel efficiency over outright power, making it ideal for city driving where frequent stops and starts are common.
Introducing the Mazda CX-50 Hybrid to the highly competitive SUV market was a strategic move, positioning it as a more refined alternative to the Toyota RAV4. With its blend of impressive capability, efficiency, and utility, the CX-50 Hybrid stands out by incorporating Mazda’s signature interior craftsmanship. Its superior build quality, upscale materials, and premium feel not only set it apart from the RAV4 but also elevate it above other non-premium hybrid SUVs, making it a compelling choice for a wide range of buyers.
| Engine | 2.5-litre naturally aspirated inline-4 |
| Battery & Electric motors | 1.6 kWh nickel-metal hydride & 3 AC motors |
| Transmission & Drivetrain | eCVT & eAWD |
| Max power & Torque (combined) | 219 hp & 163 lb-ft |
| 0-100 km/h | 7.8 seconds |
| Curb Weight | 4068 lb – 1845 kg |
| Fuel Economy (observed) | 32 MPG – 7.4 L/100 km |
| Price (as tested) | $51,926 |
| Website: | www.mazda.ca |
2025 Honda Odyssey – Family Champion
The Honda Odyssey continues its legacy as a reliable, family-friendly minivan, combining practicality with comfort in a traditional minivan formula….
2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid – Efficient Adventurer
The Mazda CX-50 Hybrid marks an exciting milestone in Mazda’s lineup, blending rugged capability with eco-friendly efficiency. Developed in collaboration…
2025 BMW M2: Honoring the M Legacy
The 2025 BMW M2 stands as a testament to BMW’s M legacy, bridging the gap between tradition and modern performance….
2025 Subaru Forester: Trail-Tested Refresh
For years, the Subaru Forester has been a trusted companion for families who crave adventure and value dependability. Whether navigating…
2025 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio: Stirring Souls, Defying Expectations
When it comes to blending Italian passion with raw performance, few SUVs can rival the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio. Born…
2025 VW Jetta GLI – Undiscovered Gem
I love sport compact sedans, they offer a great value proposition and decent performance without breaking the bank. I put…
