2026 Mazda CX-50 Turbo Premium Plus

Mazda has carved a distinct niche in the automotive landscape. While others chase outright volume or lean heavily into appliance-like utility, Mazda continues to infuse its vehicles with a certain joie de vivre, a connection between car and driver they call Jinba Ittai.

The CX-50, introduced for the 2023 model year, embodies this philosophy within the fiercely competitive compact SUV segment, adding a dash of rugged capability to Mazda’s typically sleek design language.

As we look towards the 2026 Mazda CX-50, particularly the range-topping Turbo Premium Plus, the expectation isn’t a radical reinvention but rather a refinement of an already compelling package.

The CX-50 stands apart from its sibling, the evergreen CX-5, with a wider stance, a more adventurous aesthetic, and a slightly different mission.

It’s built in the USA alongside Toyota models, but its soul remains pure Mazda. For 2026, anticipate subtle enhancements building upon the updates seen in the 2025 model, which included suspension recalibrations for improved ride comfort and the addition of a hybrid powertrain (though our focus here is the potent Turbo).

The Heart of the Matter: Turbocharged Performance

Opting for the “Turbo” badge on a CX-50 unlocks a significantly different driving experience. Under the hood lies Mazda’s Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

Feed it regular 87 octane fuel, and it delivers a healthy 227 horsepower and a stout 310 lb-ft of torque. Step up to premium 93 octane, however, and those figures climb to an impressive 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft.

What do those numbers mean on the road? Effortless acceleration. That deep well of torque, available low in the rev range (peaking around 2,000-2,500 rpm), translates to immediate responsiveness whether merging onto the highway, executing a pass, or simply pulling away from a stoplight.

Unlike some peaky turbo engines, the CX-50 Turbo delivers its power in a smooth, linear fashion, aided by the well-regarded (though sometimes noted by owners for low-speed clunkiness) Skyactiv-Drive six-speed automatic transmission.

While competitors move towards CVTs or transmissions with more gears, Mazda sticks with its responsive six-speed, complete with satisfying paddle shifters for those moments you want more control.

Mazda’s standard i-Activ All-Wheel Drive system ensures confident traction in various conditions, working seamlessly with G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC Plus).

GVC Plus subtly adjusts engine torque and applies minute braking inputs during cornering to enhance stability, smooth transitions, and provide a more connected feel through the steering wheel.

It’s this commitment to dynamic refinement that consistently earns Mazda praise from driving enthusiasts. The CX-50 Turbo Premium Plus doesn’t just get you from A to B; it encourages you to enjoy the journey.

Add in Mi-Drive modes (Sport, Off-Road, and Towing – allowing up to 3,500 lbs capacity), and you have a versatile machine ready for daily commutes or weekend adventures.

Cabin Ambience: Near-Luxury Territory

Step inside the CX-50 Turbo Premium Plus and the “Premium” moniker feels entirely justified. Mazda consistently punches above its weight class regarding interior design and material quality, and the CX-50 is no exception. Expect high-quality soft-touch materials, tasteful metallic accents, and thoughtful ergonomics.

The Premium Plus trim lavishes occupants with features:

• Leather Upholstery: Supple leather seating surfaces, often available in rich tones like Terracotta, elevate the cabin’s look and feel.
• Heated & Ventilated Front Seats: Essential for year-round comfort.
• Heated Rear Seats: A welcome touch for passengers in colder climates.
• Heated Steering Wheel: A small luxury that makes a big difference on chilly mornings.
• Panoramic Sunroof: Opens up the cabin, enhancing the sense of space and light.
• Driver-Focused Cockpit: Intuitive layout with controls falling easily to hand.

Technology is well-integrated. The centerpiece is a 10.25-inch infotainment display. While Mazda famously preferred rotary knob control for safety, recent updates allow touchscreen functionality for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (both wireless), offering users the best of both worlds.

The Mazda Connect system is generally responsive, though some find the native menus less intuitive than competitors.

Thankfully, the presence of Alexa’s Built-in and robust voice command capabilities mitigate this. Audiophiles will appreciate the standard Bose 12-speaker premium sound system, delivering crisp and immersive audio.

A wireless phone charger and a Head-Up Display (Active Driving Display) projecting key information onto the windshield further enhance convenience and safety.

Rugged Style Meets Practical Needs

Externally, the CX-50 strikes a balance between Mazda’s Kodo design language and a more rugged, outdoor-oriented look.

The wide haunches, prominent grille, and tasteful cladding give it a purposeful stance, complemented by the Turbo Premium Plus’s standard 20-inch black-metallic alloy wheels.

While these large wheels contribute to the sharp handling, they can also contribute to a firmer ride compared to trims with smaller wheels, although Mazda reportedly tweaked the suspension dampers for 2025 models to address this – an improvement likely carrying over to 2026.

Practicality is decent, though not class-leading. Cargo space measures 31.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 56.3 cubic feet with them folded.

This is adequate for most needs but trails voluminous rivals like the Honda CR-V or Kia Sportage. Rear seat legroom (39.8 inches) and headroom (37.5 inches with the panoramic roof) are comfortable for average-sized adults, making it a capable four-person hauler, though fitting three across the back might be tight. Ground clearance sits at a useful 8.6 inches, supporting the CX-50’s adventurous image.

Reviewer & Owner Perspectives (Synthesized for 2026 Outlook)

Drawing from reviews and owner feedback on current CX-50 Turbo models, a clear picture emerges, likely to hold for the 2026 iteration barring major unexpected changes:

• The Highs: The engaging driving dynamics, potent and responsive turbo engine, beautifully crafted and premium-feeling interior, and sharp exterior styling consistently win accolades. Owners appreciate the solid build quality and comprehensive safety features (Mazda’s i-Activsense suite includes adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, traffic jam assist, and more).
• Potential Lows: The primary trade-off for the turbo engine’s performance is fuel economy, which typically lands in the mid-20s MPG combined (EPA estimates are around 23 City / 29 Highway), lagging behind hybrid competitors and even some non-turbo rivals. The ride quality, especially on the 20-inch wheels, can be perceived as firm by those prioritizing plushness over handling precision. While tech features are plentiful, some users find the native infotainment system requires familiarization. Engine noise under hard acceleration, typical of direct-injection four-cylinders, is occasionally mentioned.

Why Go Premium Plus?

Choosing the Turbo Premium Plus means getting the best of everything the CX-50 offers. Beyond the powerful engine, it bundles features that significantly enhance luxury and convenience: the panoramic roof, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, Bose audio, the 360-degree View Monitor, head-up display, adaptive front lighting, power-folding mirrors, frameless auto-dimming rearview mirror, and advanced safety assists like Traffic Jam Assist and front/rear parking sensors. It transforms the CX-50 from a competent crossover into a near-luxury experience.

The Competitive Landscape

The 2026 Mazda CX-50 Turbo Premium Plus competes in a crowded field. Key rivals include:

• Honda CR-V (Touring/Sport Touring Hybrid): Often praised for practicality, fuel efficiency (especially hybrid), and smooth ride. Less engaging to drive than the Mazda.
• Toyota RAV4 (Limited/Hybrid Limited): Known for reliability and excellent hybrid fuel economy. Interior and driving dynamics generally trail the CX-50.
• Kia Sportage (X-Pro Prestige/SX Prestige): Offers bold styling, a tech-forward interior, and generous space. Ride and handling may not feel as sophisticated.
• Subaru Forester (Touring): Standard AWD and excellent visibility, known for practicality. Engine performance and interior refinement lag behind the CX-50 Turbo.
• Volkswagen Tiguan (SEL R-Line): Offers composed handling and a spacious interior (with an optional third row). The engine can feel less potent than the Mazda Turbo.

The CX-50 Turbo Premium Plus differentiates itself with its superior driving engagement and premium interior ambiance at its price point.

The 2026 Mazda CX-50 Turbo Premium Plus is poised to continue as a compelling choice for the discerning compact SUV buyer who refuses to sacrifice driving pleasure for practicality.

It offers a potent turbocharged engine, standard all-wheel drive, a beautifully executed interior brimming with features, and ruggedly handsome looks.

While it may not lead the class in fuel economy or outright cargo volume, it excels in delivering a near-premium experience and a connection to the road that few competitors can match.

If you value responsive handling, upscale materials, and sophisticated design, and you’re willing to accept slightly higher fuel consumption as the price of admission for spirited performance, the 2026 CX-50 Turbo Premium Plus should be high on your test-drive list. It’s the thinking driver’s crossover, refined for the road ahead.