Mazda CX-50 Trims Explained

Today, where most people want a feature-rich and premium-feeling compact SUV without going full luxury brand, the Mazda CX-50 brings sharp styling, a well-built cabin, and a rare focus on driving pleasure to the table. But with so many trims—each promising a different mix of value, comfort, and performance—how do you know which one’s right for you? Let’s find out.

2.5 S (Base) –

The one thing that makes the base trim attractive is its value. You still get the handsome CX-50 shape, standard AWD, LED headlights, and a surprisingly premium cabin for the price. At the front, you have Mazda’s signature wing grille flanked by slim LED lamps, giving even the base variant a confident look. Inside, cloth seats are comfortable, the 10.25-inch screen with rotary controller feels solid, and safety tech like adaptive cruise and lane-keep assist is standard. It’s the simplest way to get a CX-50 without feeling shortchanged.

2.5 S Select –

Step up here, and comfort really improves. You swap cloth for leatherette upholstery, gain heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a power-adjust driver’s seat. It’s like moving from “nice apartment” to “cozy home”—same structure, but more warmth and convenience. From the outside, it still looks almost identical to the base, but inside it feels more welcoming.

2.5 S Preferred –

This is where the CX-5 starts showing its premium side. Leather seats replace leatherette, a sunroof brings in light, and the power liftgate adds everyday ease. It feels like a proper upscale daily driver now. If you often have passengers, they’ll notice the bump in materials and ambience right away.

2.5 S Carbon Edition –

If style is your thing, the Carbon Edition is the “cool kid” trim. The Polymetal Gray paint, black wheels, and blacked-out trim make it stand out instantly. Inside, red leather seats with contrast stitching give it a sporty lounge feel. You also get Bose audio and wireless phone charging, making it as much about vibes as it is about function.

2.5 S Premium Plus –

Here, the CX-50 gets seriously loaded. Adaptive headlights, a head-up display, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel make it feel like you’re borrowing from the luxury segment. The 360-degree camera is perfect for tight parking spots, and it even adds paddle shifters for a hint of sportiness.

2.5 Carbon Turbo –

Now we enter performance territory. The turbocharged 2.5L engine transforms the CX-5 from a calm commuter into a spirited driver’s SUV. The Carbon Turbo retains the stealthy, dark styling of the regular Carbon but adds serious speed—0-60 in about 6 seconds. It’s for those who like their comfort laced with adrenaline.

2.5 Turbo Premium –

Think of this as the perfect mix of power and pampering. You get the same turbo engine punch, plus all the heated goodies, gloss-black accents, and upgraded interior touches. It’s more of a “luxury sport” vibe without hitting the full top-end price tag.

2.5 Turbo Signature –

The ultimate CX-50. Nappa leather, wood trim, ambient lighting, advanced safety aids like reverse automatic braking, and every comfort feature Mazda offers. It’s the trim for those who want luxury brand feel without the luxury brand badge—or price.

Mazda CX-50 2025 Trims: Pricing & Highlights –

Final Word –

If you want the best bang for your buck, the S Carbon Edition nails it with style and key features. For maximum comfort and luxury touches, S Premium Plus is a sweet spot. But if you’re a driver at heart, the Carbon Turbo or Turbo Premium will keep you smiling every time you press the throttle. And for those who want everything—well, the Turbo Signature is basically Mazda’s way of saying “we’ve got you covered.”