2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Premium Plus - Review by David Colman

Good Looks, Build Quality, and Superior Livability

David Colman

Photos and Story by David Colman
Special Correspondent to
THE AUTO CHANNEL

Mazda's two-row SUV, the CX-50, was introduced in 2024 as a gasoline-fueled model offering three engine choices: a 2.5 liter 4 producing 187hp, a 2.5-liter turbo 4 rated at 227hp, and a more powerful 2.5-liter turbo 4 producing 256hp. For 2025, that gasoline-only lineup has been expanded to include a 2.5-liter hybrid 4 making 219hp and 163lb.-ft. of torque. Mazda has arranged for Toyota to supply RAV4 hybrid drivetrains for propulsion of the CX-50 hybrid.

We recently tested the 3,864lb, 256hp gasoline-fueled CX-50, and were quite impressed with its 6-speed paddle-shiftable transmission, standard all-wheel drive, and impressive acceleration numbers. That top gasoline-fueled CX sprinted from rest to 0-60mph in 6.4 seconds, to 100mph in 17.8 seconds, and completed the standing start quarter mile in 14.9 seconds at 92mph. By comparison, the all-wheel drive hybrid, which substitutes a continuously variable transmission for the 6-speed, is lethargic in comparison to the gas burner. The 0-60mph run takes 7.6 seconds, 0-100mph clocks in 2.4 seconds slower at 20.4 seconds, and the standing start quarter mile (15.8 seconds at 89mph) takes nearly a second longer to complete than does the 256hp gas CX-50.

While these may just appear to be numbers on a page, the CX-50 hybrid, which posts a power-to-weight ratio of 18.57lb/hp, feels notably underpowered when straining to merge with 70mph freeway traffic, or when called upon to complete a safe quick pass on a two-lane road. Other than the shortfall in instant oomph, you will also pay a penalty in tow rating. Whereas the gas CX-50 is rated to pull a 3,500lb trailer, the hybrid is limited to just 1,500lbs thanks to its 163lb/ft torque rating. But if you're not planning to tow ton and a half loads, and don't mind losing the shift paddles provided for operation of the 6-speed automatic gearbox, then you will find solace in the gasoline savings to be gained by the hybrid configuration. The EPA estimates that thanks to the EV's parsimonious fuel sipping, you can expect to post a combined city/highway consumption of 38MPG. That number exceeds the 256hp gas-only CX-50 by a whopping 14MPG, a number that will save you $2,500 in fuel costs over 5 years compared to the average new vehicle.

After trying to figure out indecipherable dashboard logic in a variety of recent test vehicles, slotting myself into the logical cockpit of the straightforward CX-50 provided unsullied driving pleasure. Let's start with the actuator that controls the transmission. It used to be called the shift lever, but so many errant designers have had their crack at ruining this simple device that it was a relief to discover that Mazda still thinks a prominent stick with a big knob and a clearly labeled gear pattern is the way to go. It always was, and it still is. In a similar fashion, the center dash panel contains all the clearly labeled switches and button you'll need to control the AC, the heat, the seat heaters and the operation of the resounding 12-speaker BOSE audio system. Best of all, there's a proper headlight-control stalk attached to the left side of the steering column, and a good old-fashioned wiper control affixed to the right side. Clearly, Mazda engineers have refused to forsake traditional placement of crucial controls. And we are forever grateful for that.

The test vehicle we evaluated was the top model CX-50 hybrid called the Premium Plus model. The CX's strikingly handsome new shape puts other manufacturers' overwrought SUV designs to shame. Subtly painted Wind Chill Pearl (optional for $450), the exterior glowed fetchingly in subdued light at dusk and dawn. The interior treatment Mazda expends on Premium Plus models is beyond expectations. After all, this vehicle only carries an MSRP of $40,050, but when you settle into this plush cockpit, you could believe you're driving a $60,000 SUV. Take, for example, the lavish use of black and brown leather on the seating surfaces, door panels and dashboard. All the panels are tied together with precise diamond pattern, rust-colored stitching that looks like it was done by George Barris. Understated is the byword for this tasteful and elegant exercise in interior design. Leave it to Mazda to cut through the brash noise of today's design language and come up with a truly restful place to spend your road time.

Personally, I would opt for the top gasoline motor in the CX-50 range, because I found the hybrid to be short of the performance level I expect when the throttle is opened wide. But if you're looking for long-term payback from a fuel sipper like the new hybrid, this latest addition to the CX line will meet your expectations for good looks, build quality, and superior livability.

2025 MAZDA CX-50 HYBRID PREMIUM PLUS

• ENGINE: 2.5 liter DOHC inline-4, + 3 AC Motors and nickel-metal hydride battery pack
• HORSEPOWER: 219hp (combined)
• TORQUE: 163lb.-ft. (combined)
• FUEL CONSUMPTION: 39MPG City/37MPG Highway
• PRICE AS TESTED: $42,065

HYPES: Mazda Taste and Quality, Toyota Drivetrain

GRIPES: No Paddle Shifters, 1500lb Tow Rating

STAR RATING: 8 Stars out of 10

©David E Colman