What Standard Features Come on the 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Preferred AWD Trim?

The 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Preferred AWD comes standard with a power sliding panoramic moonroof, front and rear parking sensors, a programmable power rear liftgate, 3-level heated front seats, an 8-way power driver seat with power lumbar support, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a 10.25-inch center display featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto. Powered by a 2.5L Skyactiv-G four-cylinder engine with standard i-Activ AWD, this trim also equips essential driver-assist technologies including Smart Brake Support, Blind Spot Monitoring, and Lane-Keep Assist.

Every aspect of the 2.5 S Preferred AWD trim balances everyday utility with elevated luxury. Positioned right above the entry-level trim, it integrates features that directly enhance convenience during daily drives. The exterior includes 17-inch Black Metallic aluminum alloy wheels, black wheel arch moldings, heated power side mirrors, and auto-on/off LED headlights, while a power sliding panoramic moonroof brightens the cabin. Inside, half-leatherette trimmed seats combine with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter to elevate cabin atmosphere, and a White Interior Option with white half-leatherette seats is newly available for 2026.

Safety is central to the design. Industry evaluations highlight Mazda’s focus on structural integrity and driver assistance. The CX-50 has earned an IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ award alongside a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. Standard safety items include:

• Smart Brake Support with nighttime pedestrian detection
• Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert
• Lane-Keep Assist and Lane Departure Warning System
• Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go
• Driver Attention Alert and Rear Seat Alert

When prospective buyers compare trims on our lot, they often test the height-programmable power liftgate first to ensure it clears lower overhead garage doors during loading. To inspect these features in person, drop by our Burlington showroom address or give our staff a quick call at (336) 417-5253 to set up a dedicated walkaround.

Table of Contents

• Does the 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Preferred Trim Include a Power Liftgate and Premium Cabin Tech?
• What Are the Engine Power, Towing Capacity, and Fuel Economy Ratings for the CX-50 Preferred AWD?
• Is the Mazda CX-50 Larger Inside Than the CX-5?
• How Does the CX-50 Ground Clearance Compare to Competitors Like the Subaru Forester?
• Common Questions About the 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Preferred AWD
• Explore the 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Preferred AWD at Modern Mazda

Does the 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Preferred Trim Include a Power Liftgate and Premium Cabin Tech?

Among its many features, the 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Preferred AWD boasts a programmable power rear liftgate and an advanced 10.25-inch center display for seamless connectivity. This trim represents the introductory model in the CX-50 lineup to feature a power-operated tailgate, replacing the manual liftgate found on the base 2.5 S Select model.

The inclusion of the power liftgate changes the daily loading experience. Drivers can program the maximum opening height to avoid contact with low garage doors or overhead obstacles, and the liftgate can also be opened remotely with the key fob. Inside, the 60/40 split-folding rear seatbacks fold forward to expand cargo space from 31.4 cubic feet to 56.3 cubic feet.

Inside the cabin, technology remains intuitive and driver-focused. Rather than relying solely on touch inputs that divert attention from the road, Mazda uses a multi-function Commander control dial on the center console. The system features:

• 10.25-inch center display with crisp graphics
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto integration
• Built-in Alexa functionality for voice commands
• Wireless phone charger and four USB-C ports for front and rear passengers
• Eight-speaker audio system engineered for balanced cabin acoustics

Comfort upgrades also set the 2.5 S Preferred trim apart. Front passengers enjoy 3-level heated front seats, while the driver gains an 8-way power driver seat complete with adjustable power lumbar support. Dual-zone automatic climate control allows the driver and front passenger to select individual temperature settings. To compare cabin layouts or review vehicle availability, browse our current new Mazda inventory online.

What Are the Engine Power, Towing Capacity, and Fuel Economy Ratings for the CX-50 Preferred AWD?

The 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Preferred AWD achieves EPA ratings of 24 mpg city / 30 mpg highway powered by a naturally aspirated 2.5L Skyactiv-G four-cylinder engine delivering 187 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. Power routes through a SKYACTIV-DRIVE six-speed automatic transmission to Mazda’s standard i-Activ AWD system, yielding a 2,000-pound maximum towing capacity.

Mazda’s i-Activ AWD monitors road conditions, steering input, and wheel slip in real time to pre-emptively shift torque to the wheels with the most traction. Coupled with Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive), drivers can toggle specific drive modes—including Sport and Off-Road modes—to tailor throttle response and transmission shift mapping to current road conditions.

Here is how the performance metrics align across the primary 2.5 S models:

• Engine: 2.5L 4-cylinder engine
• Output: 187 horsepower @ 6,000 RPM / 185 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 RPM
• Transmission: SKYACTIV-DRIVE 6-speed automatic with manual shift mode
• Drivetrain: Standard i-Activ AWD
• Towing Capacity: 2,000-pound maximum towing capacity

The linear power delivery of the non-turbocharged 2.5L powertrain delivers predictable acceleration whether merging onto highway ramps or navigating stop-and-go city traffic. For shoppers cross-shopping different model years or pre-owned crossovers, taking a look through our pre-owned vehicle lineup provides useful context on how Mazda powertrains hold their value over time.

Is the Mazda CX-50 Larger Inside Than the CX-5?

The 2026 Mazda CX-50 is designed with a longer, wider footprint and a cargo floor that is deeper than it is wide, providing 31 cubic feet of cargo room behind the second row and up to 56 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Its lower roofline and wide stance give it a sportier, more rugged character than the taller Mazda CX-5.

Dimensional differences between these two crossovers shape how they accommodate passengers and gear:

• Overall Length: The CX-50 spans approximately 185.8 inches, with a cargo floor designed to fit longer items lengthwise.
• Rear Legroom: The CX-50 yields 39.8 inches of rear legroom, giving back-seat passengers additional room to stretch out.
• Cargo Access: The CX-50 features a lower roofline and wider cargo opening, making it easier to lift gear onto roof racks or slide heavy boxes straight into the cargo bay.

Mebane commuters traveling along the I-40 corridor value the wider cabin track and expanded rear legroom when coordinating daily carpools. The wider cargo floor comfortably accommodates longer items like golf bags, strollers, or camping gear laid flat without needing to angle them diagonally.

Maintaining cabin space and utility requires keeping mechanical systems in top condition. Vehicle owners can easily schedule service online for routine maintenance, oil changes, or tire rotations with our factory-certified technicians.

How Does the CX-50 Ground Clearance Compare to Competitors Like the Subaru Forester?

The 2026 Mazda CX-50 provides up to 8.6 inches of ground clearance, placing it in direct competition with the Subaru Forester and its 8.7 inches of ground clearance. This elevated clearance allows the crossover to navigate unpaved access roads, rutted driveways, and deep snow while preserving asphalt handling precision.

Most rugged crossovers sacrifice cornering feel in exchange for ride height. Mazda engineers tuned the CX-50 chassis to maintain composure through tight turns. G-Vectoring Control Plus subtly adjusts engine torque and braking forces during cornering, transferring weight to the front wheels upon turn-in to deliver crisp steering response.

Subaru’s Forester relies heavily on a continuously variable transmission (CVT), whereas the CX-50 employs a traditional six-speed automatic transmission. This setup provides direct gear engagement, avoiding the rubber-band engine response sometimes felt under heavy acceleration in CVT-equipped rivals.

For drivers looking to trade in an older compact SUV for a more responsive crossover, our team can help you value your trade-in to see how your current vehicle’s market value applies toward a new Mazda purchase.

Common Questions About the 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Preferred AWD

Q: Are heated front seats standard on the Preferred trim?

Yes, 3-level heated front seats come standard on the 2.5 S Preferred trim package. The driver and front passenger can choose from three heat settings controlled via physical buttons located on the dual-zone automatic climate control panel.

Q: Does the 2.5 S Preferred AWD support wireless smartphone connectivity?

Yes, wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto come standard on the 2.5 S Preferred trim. Drivers can seamlessly mirror smartphone navigation, streaming media, and messaging applications directly onto the 10.25-inch center display without needing a physical USB cable connection.

Q: What is the maximum towing capacity for this specific trim?

The 2.5 S Preferred AWD trim carries a 2,000-pound maximum towing capacity when properly equipped with a dealer-installed Mazda trailer hitch and harness. This capacity easily handles light utility trailers, personal watercraft, or small pop-up campers.

Q: How does the Preferred trim differ from the base Select trim?

The Preferred trim upgrades over the Select trim by adding a power sliding panoramic moonroof, front and rear parking sensors, a programmable power rear liftgate, 3-level heated front seats, an 8-way power driver seat with power lumbar support, and heated exterior side mirrors. The Select trim relies on manual seat adjustments and a manual rear liftgate, and does not include a moonroof or parking sensors.

Shoppers interested in reviewing financing options or current monthly terms can apply for financing online to complete a secure credit application prior to visiting the dealership.

Explore the 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Preferred AWD at Modern Mazda

Experiencing the 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Preferred AWD firsthand highlights why this crossover stands out in a crowded segment. From its driver-oriented cockpit and standard i-Activ AWD to the everyday utility of its programmable power rear liftgate, the 2.5 S Preferred package delivers premium value.

Our team at Modern Mazda of Burlington believes in complete transparency and building real connections with our customers. Every vehicle purchase reflects The Modern Difference, prioritizing straightforward advice and long-term customer satisfaction over short-term sales goals.

Visit our team at 2608 Alamance Rd, Burlington, NC 27215 to explore our showroom and take the CX-50 on a test drive. You can also contact our sales team directly at (336) 417-5253 or connect with our genuine Mazda parts department to customize your vehicle with official roof racks, all-weather floor mats, or towing hitches.