Off-Road Ready. Road Trip Refined.
The 2026 Mazda CX-50 isn't just another SUV. It's designed specifically for drivers who leave the pavement behind. Whether you're heading to the Indiana Dunes, exploring the gravel fire roads near Lafayette, or packing the family for a weekend at Lake Michigan, the CX-50 brings rugged capability without sacrificing Mazda's signature driving feel. With standard i-Activ All-Wheel Drive, available Off-Road drive mode, and a Meridian Edition built for overlanding, this is your ticket to adventure.
Conquer Unpaved Roads
The CX-50 features a wider stance and higher ground clearance than its siblings. The available Mi-Drive system includes an Off-Road mode that adjusts throttle response, traction control, and transmission shift points for loose surfaces like gravel, mud, or sand. Standard i-Activ AWD proactively distributes torque to the wheels with the most grip, so you stay confident on slippery boat ramps or snow-covered streets near Crown Point.
The Meridian Edition takes it further with all-terrain tires, unique suspension tuning, and roof rails ready for a cargo basket or tent. It's built for the Great Lakes wilderness.
Haul Your Gear. Tow Your Toys.
Properly equipped, the turbocharged CX-50 can tow up to 3,500 pounds. That means you can bring a small camper, two jet skis, or a boat to Lake Freeman. Fold the rear seats flat and you get 56.3 cubic feet of cargo space, enough for camping gear, mountain bikes, or coolers for a week-long road trip.
Available roof rails and genuine Mazda accessories like crossbars, bike carriers, and cargo boxes let you customize the CX-50 for kayaking, skiing, or tailgating at Purdue. Adventure doesn't require compromise.
Performance That Handles the Extremes
187 Standard HP
The 2.5L SKYACTIV-G engine delivers confident power for merging onto I-65 or climbing steep grades near Kokomo.
Turbocharged Option
Available turbo engine produces up to 256 horsepower on premium fuel. Ideal for mountain passes or passing on two-lane highways.
G-Vectoring Control Plus
Mazda's exclusive system subtly adjusts engine torque for smoother cornering on winding roads around the Great Lakes.
Go Even Further: CX-50 Hybrid
For drivers who want epic road trip range, the 2026 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid combines a 2.5L engine with three electric motors for 219 horsepower and an estimated 38 MPG combined. That's over 550 miles of range on a single tank. Perfect for circling Lake Michigan or driving from Merrillville to the Upper Peninsula without constant fuel stops. Standard e-AWD keeps you planted in rain or snow. Ask our team about Hybrid availability.
Explore CX-50 HybridRugged Comfort Inside and Out
Spend hours on the trail or the highway without fatigue. The CX-50's cabin features durable, easy-to-clean materials, available leather seating with unique stitching inspired by outdoor gear, and a panoramic moonroof that opens the cabin to the sky. Heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a 10.25-inch center display keep you connected and comfortable no matter the season.
Available Bose premium audio fills the cabin with rich sound, perfect for playlists on a cross-country drive. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, so your maps and podcasts are always ready.
Stay Safe on Every Adventure
The 2026 CX-50 earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award. Standard i-Activsense safety features work silently to protect you and your passengers, whether you're navigating downtown Merrillville or a remote trailhead.
Blind Spot Monitoring
with Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Smart Brake Support
with pedestrian detection
Lane Keep Assist
with Lane Departure Warning
Radar Cruise Control
with Stop & Go
Highest safety honor
Editor's Choice Award
2026 Mazda CX-50 Trim Levels
2.5 S Select
$29,900*
Half-leatherette seats, 10.25" display, i-Activsense safety suite.
Shop Select2.5 S Preferred
$32,400*
Adds leatherette seats, power driver seat, dual-zone climate.
Shop Preferred*MSRP excludes tax, title, license, options, and destination fees. See dealer for details.
Frequently Asked Questions: Adventure Ready
Can the Mazda CX-50 handle off-road trails near the Great Lakes?
Absolutely. The CX-50 offers standard i-Activ AWD, an Off-Road drive mode, and higher ground clearance than many compact SUVs. The Meridian Edition adds all-terrain tires and additional underbody protection. It's ideal for gravel roads, forest trails, and sandy paths around Lake Michigan and Indiana's state parks.
What is the towing capacity for a small camper or boat?
When properly equipped with the turbocharged engine, the CX-50 can tow up to 3,500 pounds. That's enough for a small travel trailer, a pair of personal watercraft, or a fishing boat. Non-turbo models have lower capacity; check with our team for specific configurations.
Is the CX-50 good for long road trips around Lake Michigan?
Yes. With comfortable seats, available hybrid efficiency (38 MPG combined), up to 56.3 cubic feet of cargo space, and standard Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, the CX-50 is purpose-built for long drives. The available Bose audio system and panoramic moonroof make the journey enjoyable for everyone.
How does the CX-50 handle Northwest Indiana winters?
Standard i-Activ All-Wheel Drive provides exceptional traction on snow, ice, and slush. The system predicts slip and shifts power instantly. Heated seats, a heated steering wheel (available on higher trims), and dual-zone climate keep you warm when temperatures drop near Crown Point or Lafayette.
What adventure accessories are available for the CX-50?
Mazda offers genuine accessories including roof crossbars, bike carriers, kayak mounts, cargo baskets, all-weather floor mats, and a rear bumper guard. Our parts department can help you outfit your CX-50 for hiking, skiing, camping, or tailgating.
Start Your Next Adventure at Art Hill Mazda
From the streets of Merrillville to the trails of the Great Lakes region, the 2026 Mazda CX-50 is ready. Visit us to test drive the Meridian Edition, explore hybrid models, or value your trade. Our team serves Lafayette, West Lafayette, Crown Point, Kokomo, Frankfort, and Logansport.
*MSRP excludes tax, title, license, options, and destination fees. Actual dealer price may vary. 187 horsepower with regular fuel. Towing capacity of 3,500 lbs requires optional turbo engine and proper equipment. 38 MPG combined EPA estimate for CX-50 Hybrid. Mileage varies. i-Activsense safety features are driver-assist systems and do not replace safe driving. See dealer for complete details and current incentives. Art Hill Mazda, 957 W Lincoln Hwy, Merrillville, IN 46410.