Dec 3, 2024

Mazda has built a reputation for delivering vehicles that seamlessly blend style, performance, and practicality. Among its SUV lineup, the Mazda CX-50 stands out not only for its rugged design and sporty driving dynamics but also for its impressive towing capabilities. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast or simply need a dependable vehicle for hauling, the Mazda CX-50 is up to the task.

This blog dives into the towing capacity of the Mazda CX-50, explaining its capabilities, features that enhance towing, and how it compares to competitors. Stick around until the end for details about Marin Mazda, your go-to destination for experiencing this versatile SUV in California.

Looking for a deeper dive into what makes the Mazda CX-50 a standout SUV? Check out our comprehensive guide:
Just How Good is the Mazda CX-50? Everything You Need to Know About This Masterpiece.

This blog covers the CX-50’s performance, interior, technology, and more, helping you fully appreciate why it’s a top contender in its class.


Towing Capacity of the Mazda CX-50

The Mazda CX-50 is designed to handle a variety of towing needs, making it a versatile choice for drivers with active lifestyles. The towing capacity depends on the engine and trim level:

  • Standard 2.5L Inline-4 Engine:
    The base engine provides a towing capacity of up to 2,000 lbs, ideal for light trailers, small boats, or utility loads.
  • 2.5L Turbocharged Inline-4 Engine:
    For more demanding towing needs, the turbocharged version delivers an impressive 3,500 lbs of towing capacity. This makes it a great option for hauling larger trailers, ATVs, or small campers.

Mazda ensures that the CX-50 not only has the raw power to tow but also the stability and control needed to make towing stress-free and safe.


Features That Enhance Towing

Mazda has equipped the CX-50 with several features that enhance its towing capabilities and make it easier to handle loads:

  1. i-Activ All-Wheel Drive (AWD):
    Standard on all CX-50 trims, the i-Activ AWD system dynamically adjusts torque distribution to maintain traction, even with a trailer in tow.
  2. Turbocharged Performance:
    The available 256-hp turbocharged engine not only increases towing capacity but also ensures smooth acceleration and confident highway merging, even with a heavy load.
  3. Towing Mode:
    Selectable drive modes include a Towing Mode (available on turbocharged trims), which optimizes power delivery and transmission response for improved handling while towing.
  4. Hill Launch Assist:
    This feature prevents rollback on inclines, giving drivers confidence when starting on hills with a trailer attached.
  5. Trailer Stability Assist:
    Integrated into the stability control system, this feature reduces sway by automatically adjusting braking and torque.

These features ensure that towing with the CX-50 is not only possible but also safe and convenient, even for drivers new to hauling.


How Does the CX-50 Compare to Competitors?

When comparing the Mazda CX-50’s towing capacity to other compact SUVs, it becomes clear that Mazda has designed this vehicle to stand out.

  • Honda CR-V:
    The Honda CR-V offers a maximum towing capacity of just 1,500 lbs, making it less capable than even the CX-50’s standard engine.
  • Toyota RAV4:
    The RAV4 matches the CX-50’s base towing capacity at 2,000 lbs, but only specific trims (Adventure and TRD Off-Road) achieve 3,500 lbs, and they lack Mazda’s refined driving dynamics.
  • Subaru Forester:
    The Forester is limited to 1,500 lbs, making it unsuitable for heavier loads compared to the CX-50.

With its turbocharged engine option and advanced towing features, the CX-50 surpasses most competitors in towing capacity, providing greater versatility for drivers who need a capable and adventurous SUV.


What Can You Tow with the Mazda CX-50?

Depending on the engine you choose, the Mazda CX-50 can handle a wide range of towing tasks. Here’s a breakdown of what its towing capacity allows:

  • 2,000 lbs (Standard Engine):
    • Small utility trailers
    • Personal watercraft (like jet skis)
    • Small boats
  • 3,500 lbs (Turbocharged Engine):
    • Pop-up campers or lightweight travel trailers
    • Medium-sized boats
    • ATVs or dirt bikes on a trailer
    • Larger utility trailers

The CX-50’s versatility ensures that it can handle everything from weekend getaways to heavy-duty errands.


Why Towing with the Mazda CX-50 Feels Effortless

Mazda’s engineering goes beyond raw towing capacity. The CX-50 ensures a seamless towing experience through its advanced technology and intuitive features:

  • Smooth Transmission:
    The 6-speed automatic transmission delivers consistent and reliable power, ensuring smooth gear shifts even when towing at maximum capacity.
  • Balanced Suspension:
    The CX-50’s suspension is tuned to maintain composure even with a trailer attached, reducing bounce and sway.
  • Driver Confidence:
    The CX-50 offers exceptional driver feedback, ensuring precise control and a stable towing experience.

Mazda’s commitment to providing a driver-focused SUV means towing with the CX-50 feels natural and intuitive.


Explore the Mazda CX-50 at Marin Mazda

Ready to experience the towing capabilities of the Mazda CX-50 for yourself? Visit Marin Mazda, your premier destination for new and used Mazda vehicles in California. Our inventory includes the latest Mazda CX-50 models, and our team is ready to help you find the perfect trim to suit your needs.

At Marin Mazda, you’ll discover:

  • A wide selection of new Mazda vehicles, including the CX-50.
  • A carefully curated inventory of certified pre-owned Mazda models.
  • Exceptional service to guide you through the buying process and ensure your satisfaction.

Discover why the Mazda CX-50 is the perfect SUV for towing and beyond. Schedule a test drive or explore our inventory today!

➡️ Visit Marin Mazda Here.


10 FAQs About the Mazda CX-50 Towing Capacity

1. What is the towing capacity of the Mazda CX-50?

The Mazda CX-50 offers two towing capacities depending on the engine:

  • 2,000 lbs with the standard 2.5L inline-4 engine.
  • 3,500 lbs with the 2.5L turbocharged inline-4 engine.

2. Which trims of the Mazda CX-50 can tow 3,500 lbs?

The turbocharged trims, such as the 2.5 Turbo Premium and Turbo Meridian Edition, are equipped to tow up to 3,500 lbs.


3. Can the Mazda CX-50 tow a camper or trailer?

Yes, the turbocharged Mazda CX-50 can tow lightweight campers or travel trailers weighing up to 3,500 lbs, making it suitable for outdoor adventures.


4. Does the Mazda CX-50 come with towing features?

Yes, the Mazda CX-50 includes features like:

  • Towing Mode (on turbocharged trims).
  • Trailer Stability Assist to reduce sway.
  • Hill Launch Assist for confident starts on inclines.

5. Is all-wheel drive (AWD) standard on the Mazda CX-50?

Yes, AWD is standard across all trims of the Mazda CX-50, ensuring optimal traction and stability, even when towing.


6. How does the Mazda CX-50 compare to competitors in towing capacity?

The Mazda CX-50 outperforms many compact SUVs in towing capacity:

  • Honda CR-V: 1,500 lbs
  • Subaru Forester: 1,500 lbs
  • Toyota RAV4: 2,000 lbs (3,500 lbs on specific trims) The CX-50’s turbocharged trims match or exceed the towing capacity of its rivals.

7. What can I tow with the Mazda CX-50?

With the CX-50, you can tow:

  • 2,000 lbs: Small trailers, jet skis, or personal watercraft.
  • 3,500 lbs: Pop-up campers, ATVs, medium-sized boats, or utility trailers.

8. Does the Mazda CX-50 have a Towing Mode?

Yes, turbocharged trims of the Mazda CX-50 include a Towing Mode, which adjusts power delivery and transmission response for better towing performance.


9. How does the Mazda CX-50 handle towing at maximum capacity?

The Mazda CX-50 is designed to provide a stable and controlled towing experience, thanks to its balanced suspension, i-Activ AWD system, and trailer stability technology.


10. Where can I test drive a Mazda CX-50 with towing capabilities?

Visit Marin Mazda in California to test drive the Mazda CX-50 and explore its towing features. The dealership offers a wide selection of new and pre-owned Mazda models.