This is the 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid and it’s a more efficient version of Mazda’s excellent compact crossover. Today I’m reviewing this CX-50 Hybrid and I’ll show you the many quirks and features. I’m also going to get behind the wheel and show you what it’s like to drive.
source.image: Doug DeMuro
The powertrain package of the CX-50 Hybrid – a 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine, electric motors, hybrid EV battery pack, e-CVT, and e-AWD – has been meticulously engineered to ensure it delivers Mazda signature driving dynamics. Its combined system output of 219 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque makes it the weakest CX-50 entry yet and it feels that way.
A new, electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (e-CVT) is carefully tuned to maintain responsiveness and the intimately connected feel of our traditional automatic transmission. A unique electronic All-Wheel Drive (e-AWD) system uses the hybrid electric motors to drive the front and rear wheels independently, with the rear motor powering the rear wheels directly when front wheel traction is diminished.
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The seats are elegant and comfortable, all the interior plastics are soft and relatively high-quality, the layout of the gauge cluster and infotainment screen works great, and the dashboard is understated and functional. With the i-Activsense suite of safety features, sophisticated safety innovations alert you to hazards to help you avoid collisions or lessen their impact.
