For drivers seeking premium features without stepping into luxury-brand prices, the Premium Plus trim offers an appealing balance of performance, comfort, and technology. In this article, we outline exactly what you get with the 2025 CX‑50 Premium Plus and explore whether it’s the right choice for Northern California drivers.
What You Get with Premium Plus
Building on the Premium trim, the Premium Plus package includes:
- Leather-trimmed seats with contrast stitching
- Ventilated front seats for year-round comfort
- 20-inch alloy wheels for increased road presence and handling stability
- Active Driving Display (head-up display) projecting speed, navigation, and driver-assist alerts onto the windshield
- Traffic Sign Recognition and Lane Centering Assist, part of Mazda’s i-Activsense suite
- Bose 12-speaker premium audio system for immersive sound
- Wireless smartphone charging pad and larger infotainment screen
Owners frequently praise the premium feel:
“Good quality leather seats with ventilation… Steering is perfectly weighted… 12‑speaker Bose system works great.”
Performance Remains Consistent
The Premium Plus trim shares the naturally aspirated 2.5L engine (187 hp) and 6-speed automatic transmission with other non-turbo trims. Fuel economy stays at an EPA-estimated 25 city / 31 highway / 28 combined MPG, while turbo versions offer 23/29/25 MPG.
This trim balances a comfortable, elevated cabin experience with respectable efficiency.
Is the Upgrade Worth It?
Here’s a breakdown of whether Premium Plus adds real value:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Leather and ventilated seats | Adds comfort and luxury feel in all seasons |
| Active Driving Display | Reduces driver distraction with heads-up alerts |
| Bose audio system | Delivers premium sound quality for music lovers |
| Technology features | Improves safety and driving convenience |
| 20-inch wheels | Enhances ride dynamics and visual appeal |
Packages like Premium Plus can add $3,000–4,000 over the base Premium trim. But enthusiasts value these luxury touches and driving enhancements, especially for Bay Area commuting and weekend getaways.
Considerations Before You Upgrade
- Cost vs Utility: Some buyers suggest the Premium trim already provides sufficient comfort — adding wheels and a HUD may not justify the extra cost.
- Road Noise: 20-inch wheels can introduce slightly more road noise compared to smaller rims — though Mazda’s cabin tuning offsets much of this.
Still, many owners find these are acceptable compromises for the elevated premium feel.
Final Verdict for Northern California Drivers
If you appreciate a refined interior, advanced tech, and an overall luxurious atmosphere — and don’t mind stepping up on price — the CX‑50 Premium Plus delivers strong value. It offers comfort for daily commutes on the Bay Area’s freeways, quality seating for long drives, and upscale features that stand out in its segment.
On the other hand, if your priority is performance or off-road capability, consider the turbo trims instead.
Visit Marin Mazda to Explore the 2025 CX‑50 Premium Plus
Come see the difference for yourself. Test drive the Premium Plus trim and discover whether it’s the right fit for your next adventure.
Marin Mazda
807 Francisco Blvd E, San Rafael, CA 94901
Call: (415) 454‑7000
www.marinmazda.net
Your next Mazda is waiting.
