2025 Mazda CX-50 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus is a compact crossover that’s perfect for a wide range of drivers. Whether you're an active family needing space and comfort, or a single driver looking for a stylish vehicle that’s just as fun on a winding road as it is on the highway, the CX-50 delivers on all fronts. After spending a week behind the wheel, it’s clear that Mazda has managed to blend its signature sporty driving dynamics with a practical and comfortable package. Here’s a closer look at what stands out.

Driving Experience: A Blend of Fun and Comfort

From the moment you get behind the wheel of the Mazda CX-50, the driving experience stands out. The quick and responsive steering is a hallmark of Mazda's driving dynamics, and the CX-50 is no exception. Whether cruising on the highway or taking tight turns on a backroad, the vehicle goes exactly where you point it — and when driving more aggressively, it comes to life with impressive agility.

The 227-horsepower turbocharged engine offers plenty of power, and while there is a slight turbo lag at lower speeds, once you’re used to it, it’s a joy to drive. The ride quality strikes a perfect balance — it’s firm enough for sporty handling but smooth enough for long road trips. Whether you're on a family outing or tackling a more spirited drive, the CX-50 delivers comfort without sacrificing performance.

Interior Comfort and Design: Stylish and Practical

Mazda has done an excellent job with the interior of the CX-50 Turbo Premium Plus, combining comfort with a sense of luxury. The leather seats in the terracotta color are both visually striking and comfortable, providing support during spirited drives while remaining plush enough for long-distance comfort. Front and rear seats are heated, adding a nice touch of luxury, especially on colder mornings.

The layout of the cabin is intuitive, with buttons and controls easily accessible and straightforward to use. While some vehicles are racing to install giant infotainment screens, Mazda keeps it practical, with a screen that’s large enough for easy use without overwhelming the dashboard. Additionally, the control knob makes it easy to navigate the system while driving, without needing to lean forward to touch the screen.

Exterior Styling: Sleek, Bold, and Eye-Catching

Mazda’s design philosophy shines through in the CX-50’s exterior. The "Soul Red Crystal Metallic" paint is a standout feature, with its deep, rich hue that consistently draws compliments. The front grille is bold but not overpowering, and the slim headlights give the vehicle an aggressive, confident look. The rear lights have a similar vibe, almost as though they’re glaring at you.

The 20-inch alloy wheels are another highlight, with a bright polished finish in the front and a black interior that ties in nicely with the vehicle's other black exterior details. Mazda has managed to strike a balance between a refined, clean look and the aggressive stance of an SUV that isn’t afraid to make a statement.

Practicality: Space, Convenience, and Usability

When it comes to practicality, the CX-50 doesn’t disappoint. The cargo space is surprisingly roomy, easily accommodating luggage for a family trip — even with four people and bags packed for a long vacation. The trunk is low enough to make loading and unloading easy, and the rubber mat keeps everything from sliding around.

There’s ample cabin storage as well, with thoughtfully placed cupholders, a wireless charging pad, and plenty of space in the center armrest for smaller items. One minor gripe, however, is the placement of the cupholders — they’re located far forward between the front seats, which could be an issue if you're using large cups or tumblers, as they may bump into the dashboard controls when being placed or removed.

Visibility is good all around, and the top-down camera system makes parking and maneuvering in tight spaces a breeze. The head-up display (Active Driving Display) is another welcome feature, keeping important driving info right in your line of sight so you don’t need to take your eyes off the road.

Driver Assistance Features: Subtle Yet Helpful

Mazda’s suite of driver assistance features works seamlessly in the CX-50, with systems like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring adding an extra layer of convenience and safety. While not as polished as some luxury systems, the CX-50’s features are smooth and responsive once you get used to the feel. They don’t feel intrusive and certainly add to the overall driving experience.

Fuel Economy: Practical Yet Fun

While this isn’t a fuel efficiency review, the CX-50 provides solid fuel economy for its class. Though aggressive driving will naturally use more fuel, the vehicle performs well overall. The 2.5L turbo engine is capable of providing power when needed, without overly compromising on efficiency.

Final Thoughts: A Versatile Crossover for Active Lifestyles

Overall, the 2025 Mazda CX-50 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus is a highly capable and stylish crossover that can fit a wide range of lifestyles. It’s an excellent choice for families, particularly those with teenage children, thanks to its spacious cabin and practical cargo space. It’s also a great option for active individuals or couples who need a vehicle that can handle sporting equipment and outdoor gear.

Whether you’re a commuter, a road tripper, or an adventure-seeker, the CX-50 balances performance, comfort, and practicality in a sleek, stylish package. If you’re looking for a vehicle that’s just as fun to drive as it is functional, the Mazda CX-50 should be high on your list.