When I tested the Mazda CX-50 last year, I called out a few things Mazda got right: great driving manners, a comfortable and premium-feeling interior, and a strong design that stood out from the crowd. I also pointed out a few areas for improvement, including the absence of USB-C charging ports, which felt out of place in an otherwise forward-thinking cabin.
Fast forward to the 2025 model; it feels like Mazda heard that feedback. USB-C ports are now standard across the lineup, and they've added another important upgrade: a new Hybrid model that makes the CX-50 better suited for everyday driving and long-term fuel savings.
Daryl Killian
I spent a week with the Hybrid Premium Plus, and it delivered the same quiet confidence that made the original CX-50 a standout, now with fewer frequent gas station stops.
What's New for 2025
• New CX-50 Hybrid lineup joins the existing gas-powered models
• USB-C ports added to all trims
• Alexa Built-In is now standard for voice controls
• Updated safety features, including better Smart Brake Support and nighttime pedestrian detection
• 38 mpg combined for Hybrid models
Driving Experience
Mazda's Hybrid CX-50 uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and three electric motors, working together to deliver 219 horsepower. It's a setup adapted from Toyota's Hybrid System, but tuned by Mazda engineers to keep what they refer to as the brand's more natural driving feel.
The hybrid system operates so smoothly, you barely think about it. Power is immediate enough for merging and passing, and the system feels even more composed around town than some non-hybrids. The CVT transmission — usually a weak spot in hybrids — didn't bother me. It stayed quiet and predictable, even in heavier traffic.
The hybrid's towing capability drops to 1,500 lbs, compared to 2,000 lbs for the standard model and 3,500 lbs for the Turbo, but for most buyers focused on efficiency, this won't be a major drawback.
Interior and Practicality
The CX-50's cabin continues to impress with upscale materials and thoughtful design. The Premium Plus model includes ventilated leather seats, a panoramic moonroof, and a 12-speaker Bose® system.
Daryl Killian
The seating is firm but supportive, and interior noise levels are moderate. This makes it feel more expensive than the price would suggest, but it is not to be mistaken for luxurious.
Daryl Killian
Daryl Killian
Daryl Killian
The Hybrid battery doesn't eat into cargo space thanks to innovative packaging. A family road trip, cargo, sports gear, and shopping bags all fit easily. And yes, those new USB-C ports are positioned precisely where they should be for easy front and back access.
Daryl Killian
Daryl Killian
Daryl Killian
This small but important change is worth appreciating if you spend much time connected to your devices (like most of us do now).
Fuel Economy
This is the biggest win. The Hybrid Premium Plus is rated at 38 mpg combined, about a 40% improvement over the gas-only model. Even with a mix of city and suburban driving, fuel economy stayed close to the EPA estimate during my week of driving.
Safety and Tech Updates
Mazda added more tech across the board for 2025:
• Alexa Built-In for easier voice commands
• Updated Smart Brake Support that now works better at night and in more situations
• Vehicle Exit Warning to alert you to cars or cyclists approaching when you're opening a door
• Head-up display and adaptive cruise control included in Premium Plus
2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Premium Plus
MAZDA NORTH AMERICAN OPERATIONS
Daryl Killian
