2026 Mazda CX-50 Trim Levels Explained near Verona, WI
The 2026 Mazda CX-50 brings together rugged utility, refined cabin design, and the responsive feel Mazda is known for, making it a smart fit for shoppers who want an SUV that feels composed on daily roads and capable when plans stretch beyond pavement. For shoppers comparing a 2026 Mazda CX-50 near Verona, WI, this lineup stands out with standard i-ACTIV AWD®, Mazda Intelligent Drive Select, a wide range of gas, hybrid, and turbo choices, and a cabin designed around clear visibility and natural control placement. At Russ Darrow Mazda of Madison, we see the CX-50 as especially compelling because it does not ask drivers to choose between premium comfort and practical versatility. Standard technology such as Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay® integration, wireless Android Auto™ compatibility, and i-Activsense® safety features helps every trim feel modern. Available upgrades such as ventilated front seats, Bose audio, panoramic moonroof, all-terrain tires, and advanced driver assistance features let online shoppers choose a CX-50 that matches daily routines, weekend plans, and personal style.
| Trim Level | Focus | Powertrain | Wheels | Seating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CX-50 2.5 S Select | Well-equipped standard value | 187-hp 2.5L gas | 17-inch Black Metallic | Half leatherette seats |
| CX-50 2.5 S Preferred | Comfort and convenience | 187-hp 2.5L gas | 17-inch alloy wheels | Heated front seats |
| CX-50 2.5 S Meridian Edition | Trail-inspired gas trim | 187-hp 2.5L gas | 18-inch all-terrain setup | Black half leatherette |
| CX-50 2.5 S Premium | Premium comfort upgrade | 187-hp 2.5L gas | 20-inch alloy choices | Leather, ventilated front |
| CX-50 Hybrid Preferred | Efficient hybrid entry | 219-hp hybrid system | 17-inch black alloy | Heated front seats |
| CX-50 Hybrid Premium | Hybrid luxury balance | 219-hp hybrid system | Hybrid Premium design | Black or Red leather |
| CX-50 Hybrid Premium Plus | Top hybrid comfort | 219-hp hybrid system | 19-inch split finish | Heated rear seats |
| CX-50 2.5 Turbo | Turbocharged everyday strength | Up to 256 hp | 20-inch alloy choices | Leather seat choices |
| CX-50 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition | Turbo adventure styling | Up to 256 hp | 18-inch all-terrain setup | Terracotta leather seats |
| CX-50 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus | Maximum turbo technology | Up to 256 hp | 20-inch alloy choices | White leather option |
2026 Mazda CX-50 Trim Options
CX-50 2.5 S Select
i-ACTIV AWD® · 10.25-inch center display · Alexa Built-in · i-Activsense®
The CX-50 2.5 S Select gives the lineup a strong starting point, especially for shoppers who want capability and modern technology without moving into upper trims. Power comes from a Skyactiv-G 2.5L naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque, paired with a Skyactiv-Drive six-speed automatic transmission. Standard i-ACTIV AWD® and Mazda Intelligent Drive Select with Sport and Off-Road modes give this trim confident traction and a more connected drive. Inside, the 10.25-inch full-color center display, Mazda Connect Infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay® integration, wireless Android Auto™ compatibility, Alexa Built-in, wireless phone charger, four USB-C ports, and eight-speaker audio system create a cabin that feels current from the first drive. The exterior includes 17-inch Black Metallic alloy wheels, LED headlights, roof rails, rear roof spoiler, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and dual exhaust outlets. Standard i-Activsense® features such as Smart Brake Support with pedestrian detection, Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Departure Warning System, Lane Keep Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Rear Seat Alert, Driver Attention Alert, and Vehicle Exit Warning add meaningful peace of mind.
CX-50 2.5 S Preferred
Panoramic moonroof · Power rear liftgate · Front and rear parking sensors · Heated side-mirrors
The CX-50 2.5 S Preferred is a natural step up for shoppers who like the Select model’s capability but want more day-to-day comfort and convenience. It keeps the 187-horsepower Skyactiv-G 2.5L engine, Skyactiv-Drive six-speed automatic transmission, standard i-ACTIV AWD®, and Mi-Drive with Sport and Off-Road modes, then adds features that make busy routines feel easier. A power sliding panoramic moonroof brings an open, premium feel to the cabin, while the power rear liftgate helps when loading groceries, luggage, sports bags, or home project supplies. Front and rear parking sensors are newly added for 2026 and give this trim extra confidence in tighter spaces. Heated front seats, heated side-mirrors, and an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support make the cabin more personal and comfortable. For buyers who appreciate a brighter cabin look, the all-new White Interior Option with white half leatherette seats adds a distinctive design choice. The Preferred trim keeps the core technology and safety strengths from Select while adding the amenities many shoppers expect in a well-rounded compact SUV.
CX-50 2.5 S Meridian Edition
18-inch alloy wheels · All-terrain tires · Black roof rails · Gloss black badges
The CX-50 2.5 S Meridian Edition brings a more adventurous personality to the naturally aspirated side of the lineup. New for 2026, this trim takes the comfort and safety foundation of the 2.5 S Preferred and adds outdoor-focused hardware and visual details that suit drivers who regularly carry bikes, camping gear, trail equipment, or weekend supplies. The 18-inch alloy wheels with all-terrain tires give the Meridian Edition a more purposeful stance while supporting confidence beyond ordinary pavement. Black roof rails add utility and a cohesive exterior look, and gloss black Mazda emblems and gloss black badges for CX-50, AWD, and Skyactiv-G sharpen the design. This trim is offered with black half leatherette seats and select exterior paint choices including Jet Black Mica, Polymetal Gray, and Zircon Sand, which reinforce the Meridian Edition’s rugged tone. Because convenience features match the 2.5 S Preferred, shoppers still get the power sliding panoramic moonroof, power rear liftgate, heated front seats, front and rear parking sensors, and strong infotainment technology. It is a smart fit for outdoor-minded buyers who do not need a turbo engine.
CX-50 2.5 S Premium
Leather seats · Ventilated front seats · Bose 12-speaker audio · Traffic Sign Recognition
The CX-50 2.5 S Premium is ideal for shoppers who want the efficiency and smooth character of the naturally aspirated engine with a richer cabin experience. For 2026, this trim adds black leather seats with 20-inch Black Metallic, machine-finish alloy wheels and all-season tires, or buyers can choose the new White Interior Option with white leather seats, 20-inch Silver alloy wheels, and silver roof rails. That flexibility gives the Premium trim a more personalized feel. Ventilated front seats are a meaningful upgrade for daily comfort, while the power six-way passenger seat, two-position seat memory, and auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink bring convenience for households with multiple drivers. The Bose 12-speaker premium audio system adds a more immersive sound experience, and SiriusXM satellite radio with a complimentary three-month trial subscription expands entertainment options. This trim also continues with Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Traffic Sign Recognition, a roof-mounted shark fin antenna, and windshield wiper de-icer. The result is a CX-50 that feels upscale, useful, and pleasantly refined without moving to a turbo or hybrid powertrain.
CX-50 Hybrid Preferred
2.5L hybrid system · eCVT · Electric AWD · Power and Trail modes
The CX-50 Hybrid Preferred is the entry point for shoppers who want Mazda crossover style and utility with hybrid efficiency. Its powertrain combines a 2.5L naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, hybrid EV battery, three electric motors, and an Electronically-controlled Continuously Variable Transmission. Total system output is 219 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque, giving the Hybrid Preferred confident response for commuting, errands, and longer drives. Standard Electric AWD, or eAWD, is paired with Mi-Drive modes including Power and Trail, creating a different driving character than the gas models while keeping CX-50 capability at the center. Feature content is similar to the 2.5 S Preferred, so shoppers still get a 10.25-inch infotainment display, wireless Apple CarPlay® integration, wireless Android Auto™ compatibility, eight-speaker audio, four USB-C ports, wireless phone charging, Alexa Built-in, heated front seats, power rear liftgate, power sliding panoramic sunroof, and front and rear parking sensors. Unique 17-inch black alloy wheels help distinguish the Hybrid Preferred. For online shoppers focused on efficiency, traction, and everyday comfort, this trim offers one of the lineup’s most practical combinations.
CX-50 Hybrid Premium
Red leather option · Black exhaust pipes · SiriusXM · Mazda Radar Cruise Control
The CX-50 Hybrid Premium builds on the Hybrid Preferred with a more upscale interior, stronger audio, and additional driver assistance technology. It keeps the 219-horsepower hybrid system, eCVT, standard Electric AWD, and Mi-Drive Power and Trail modes, but adds features that make the cabin feel more premium on every drive. Leather seating is available in black or a Red leather interior exclusive to Hybrid models, giving shoppers a cabin choice that feels sporty and distinctive. Ventilated front seats improve comfort, while the power six-way passenger seat, two-position seat memory, and auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink add everyday polish. The Bose 12-speaker premium audio system and SiriusXM satellite radio with a complimentary three-month trial subscription give the Hybrid Premium a richer infotainment experience. On the outside, black roof rails and black exhaust pipes create a clean, confident look. Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop and Go and Traffic Sign Recognition add useful support for longer routes and busier roads. This trim makes sense for shoppers who want hybrid efficiency but do not want to miss premium comfort cues.
CX-50 Hybrid Premium Plus
Heated rear seats · Heated steering wheel · Adaptive Front-lighting System · Active Driving Display
The CX-50 Hybrid Premium Plus is the most complete hybrid trim, bringing additional lighting, comfort, and visibility technology to the efficient CX-50 formula. It continues with the hybrid system rated at 219 horsepower, standard Electric AWD, and Mi-Drive Power and Trail modes, then adds features that enhance both cabin comfort and driver confidence. Heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel make the second row and driver position feel more accommodating. Signature LED headlights with auto-leveling and taillights, along with the Adaptive Front-lighting System, help improve nighttime visibility by supporting a clearer view through curves and changing road layouts. Unique 19-inch split black and machine-polished alloy wheels give this trim a more upscale stance, while silver roof rails and silver exhaust pipes create visual contrast. Automatic power-folding side-mirrors with memory add convenience in garages, parking structures, and tighter spaces. The full-color Active Driving Display projected onto the windshield helps keep key information closer to the driver’s line of sight. For shoppers who want the strongest CX-50 Hybrid package, Premium Plus feels polished, efficient, and well equipped.
CX-50 2.5 Turbo
Twin-scroll Turbo · Paddle shifters · Signature LED headlights · Power-folding side-mirrors
The CX-50 2.5 Turbo is built for shoppers who want stronger acceleration, more towing capability, and a more performance-focused feel. Its Skyactiv-G 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces up to 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque with recommended premium fuel, or 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque on regular 87-octane fuel. It pairs with a Skyactiv-Drive six-speed automatic transmission, paddle shifters, and standard i-ACTIV AWD®. Mi-Drive Sport and Off-Road modes are included, and Turbo models expand capability with towing capacity up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped with Mazda genuine towing accessories and Towing mode engaged. This trim builds on 2.5 S Premium conveniences, adding larger dual exhaust pipes, a gloss black Mazda emblem and badges, black roof rails, Signature LED headlights with auto-leveling and taillights, Adaptive Front-lighting System, automatic power-folding side-mirrors with memory, and a full-color Active Driving Display projected onto the windshield. The available White Interior Option with white leather seats, 20-inch Silver machine-finished alloy wheels, silver roof rails, and chrome emblem and badges adds a brighter, more refined configuration.
CX-50 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition
Side rocker garnish · Hood graphics · Mazda Online Navigation · Secondary Collision Reduction
The CX-50 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition takes the turbo model’s strength and gives it a more trail-ready identity. It uses the same turbocharged Skyactiv-G 2.5L engine, standard i-ACTIV AWD®, paddle-shifted six-speed automatic transmission, and expanded towing capability as other Turbo models, then adds details made for drivers who want a more rugged visual presence. The 18-inch alloy wheels with all-terrain tires support rougher routes, while the side rocker garnish, distinctive hood graphics, black roof rails, and gloss black Mazda emblem and badges give the exterior a specific Meridian Edition look. Inside, terracotta leather seats create a warm, outdoor-inspired cabin that stands apart from the rest of the lineup. This trim is available in Jet Black Mica, Polymetal Gray, or Zircon Sand exterior paint, pairing well with its purposeful equipment. Heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel add cabin comfort, while Mazda Online Navigation with OTA updates supports route planning and current map functionality. Secondary Collision Reduction adds another layer of safety engineering. For buyers who want turbo power with the CX-50’s most adventure-focused personality, this trim is especially compelling.
CX-50 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus
360° View Monitor · Emergency Lane Keeping · Traffic Jam Assist · Front Cross Traffic Alert
The CX-50 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus is the technology flagship of the lineup and a strong choice for shoppers who want Mazda performance, premium comfort, and the widest set of driver assistance features. It keeps the turbocharged Skyactiv-G 2.5L engine with up to 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque when using recommended premium fuel, along with standard i-ACTIV AWD®, paddle shifters, and towing capability up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. This trim includes the gloss black Mazda emblem and badges with black roof rails, while the White Interior Option adds white leather seats, 20-inch Silver machine-finished alloy wheels, silver roof rails, and chrome emblem and badges. The advanced technology list is the big story: 360° View Monitor with See-Through View, Emergency Lane Keeping, Blind Spot Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, Front Cross Traffic Alert, Rear Smart Brake Support, and Smart Brake Support with Turn-Across Traffic and Front Crossing detection. Frameless auto-dimming rearview mirrors with HomeLink and auto-dimming for the driver’s side-mirror add premium detail. This is the CX-50 for drivers who want maximum confidence and convenience.
Which 2026 Mazda CX-50 Trim is Best for Verona Drivers?
The best trim depends on how you drive around Verona, Madison, and the surrounding Dane County roads. If your routine includes daily commuting, school drop-offs, and regular errands, the 2.5 S Preferred or Hybrid Preferred may feel like the right balance of comfort, traction, and useful technology. If weekends often involve trailheads, bike racks, lake access, or country roads west of town, the Meridian Edition trims add the visual attitude and equipment that match a more active lifestyle. Drivers who want stronger response for merging onto US-18/151, towing small gear trailers, or taking longer Wisconsin road trips may prefer the Turbo models. For shoppers comparing a 2026 Mazda CX-50 near Verona, WI, the broad lineup is the advantage: every trim includes the secure feel of Mazda engineering, while upper trims add comfort and confidence features in meaningful steps. Russ Darrow Mazda of Madison can help match the right CX-50 to your driving priorities.
For most Verona-area shoppers, the CX-50 2.5 S Preferred is the best overall pick because it adds high-use comfort features while keeping the lineup’s core capability intact.
- Choose CX-50 2.5 S Select for strong standard technology and safety.
- Choose CX-50 2.5 S Preferred or Hybrid Preferred for everyday comfort and value.
- Choose CX-50 2.5 S Meridian Edition or 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition for outdoor-focused style and all-terrain equipment.
- Choose CX-50 2.5 S Premium, Hybrid Premium, or Hybrid Premium Plus for upscale comfort and audio.
- Choose CX-50 2.5 Turbo or 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus for stronger acceleration, towing confidence, and advanced driver assistance.
*Images may not show trim level described