Mazda Explains Why the CX‑5 and CX‑50 Can Coexist

Mazda Explains Why the CX‑5 and CX‑50 Can Coexist originally appeared on Autoblog.

CX-5 for City, CX-50 for Adventure

Despite sharing a segment, a badge, and even some drivetrain DNA, Mazda insists theCX‑5andCX‑50are not competitors — at least not with each other. With the2026 CX‑5officially confirmed and theCX‑50continuing strong into 2025, Mazda has laid out a clear case for why these two compact SUVs aren’t stepping on each other’s toes.“We believe in the coexistence of these two vehicles because this is the largest segment in the industry,” saidStefan Meisterfeld, VP of Strategic Planning at Mazda North America, in an interview withMotor1. “We see customers who lean more towards the urban, sophisticated direction — which is obviously CX‑5. But we also see the more rugged and more adventure-oriented customer in the CX‑50.”

Two Mazdas, Two Philosophies

TheCX‑5has long been Mazda’s bread-and-butter crossover — stylish, city-friendly, and road-focused. The redesigned2026 modelcontinues that legacy with sharp new styling, meaningful cabin upgrades, and the introduction of aMazda-developed hybrid system. As we reported recently, the new CX‑5 bringsstunning innovationsto one of the most crowded vehicle classes in the country, and it’s doing so without copying the CX‑50’s playbook.Meanwhile, theCX‑50is all about versatility. It rides a bit higher, wears more rugged bodywork, and has quickly gained traction with weekend adventurers and trail-goers. It’s also the first Mazda built in Alabama alongside Toyota, and the first to use Toyota’s hybrid system. In fact, the2025 CX‑50 Hybridoffersup to 38 mpg, standard AWD, and the kind of confident steering feel that’s earned praise across the board — even fromdrivers loyal to Honda.

Built for Different Buyers

Meisterfeld says Mazda is one of the only mainstream brands offering two compact SUVs in the same class with such distinct identities. “We see them coexist perfectly next to each other… I think we have a unique proposition here.”The sales data backs that up. In 2024, Mazda moved over134,000 CX‑5sand nearly81,000 CX‑50s, making them the brand’s top-selling vehicles behind only the subcompact CX‑30. With both models pulling their weight and appealing to different types of buyers, there’s no immediate need to choose one over the other.For those still undecided, theCX‑50 reviewoffers a helpful breakdown: it’s got capability, efficiency, and genuinely good looks — though its ride comfort and interior materials leave room for thought.

What’s Next?

Mazda has already confirmed theCX‑5 Hybridwill arrive in 2027, using an in-house system rather than Toyota’s setup. While the CX‑50 Hybrid is focused on fuel economy and affordability, the CX‑5’s future hybrid will lean toward performance and Mazda’s signature driving feel.Built in Japan, the CX‑5 will maintain its distinct flavor — smooth, athletic, and focused. The CX‑50, built in Alabama and tuned for active lifestyles, will continue to do its own thing. They share a segment, yes, but according to Mazda, that’s where the overlap ends.

Mazda Explains Why the CX‑5 and CX‑50 Can Coexist first appeared on Autoblog on Jul 10, 2025

This story was originally reported by Autoblog on Jul 10, 2025, where it first appeared.