Mazda CX-50 Features You Probably Didn't Know
Rugged, refined, and full of surprises. Get the real story.
Yes, sometimes you really shouldn't judge a book by its cover. The same applies to the Mazda CX-50. At first glance, it looks pretty straightforward. Rugged shape. Black cladding. Roof rails. The sort of SUV that looks like it owns hiking boots.
But some of its best features aren't obvious. They're the things you notice later. After a grocery run. A weekend trip. A weird parking situation. Real life, you know. And those little details can matter more than another shiny trim piece.
Quick Summary
The 2026 Mazda CX-50 offers a programmable power liftgate, standard i-Activ all-wheel drive, Mi-Drive modes, 3,500-lb towing capacity (turbo), MyMazda app controls, and available 360-degree camera. All at Art Hill Mazda in Merrillville, IN.
The Liftgate Can Stop Before Hitting Your Garage
Our favorite but easy to miss. The available power liftgate can be programmed to open to a certain height. Revolutionary. If your garage ceiling is low, or there's a door hanging right above the vehicle, you don't have to stand there trying to catch the liftgate before it smacks into something.
You set the height once. Done. It also helps if you're shorter and don't want to stretch every time you close it. Not exciting. But useful.
The Cargo Area Was Designed for Actual Stuff
Let's be honest. Some SUVs have impressive cargo numbers but what you can actually use is another story. The CX-50's cargo area is long and fairly flat, which makes it easier to load things like camping gear, golf clubs, coolers, folded chairs, boxes, or whatever strange object you suddenly need to move on a Tuesday.
The opening isn't overly high. That matters when you're lifting something heavy and already regretting your decisions. The rear seats fold down for more room, too. The shape of the space makes it actually usable. Simple. Shocking.
All-Wheel Drive Is Standard
Okay, not really a hidden feature. But we thought it's worth mentioning here. Every CX-50 comes with i-Activ all-wheel drive. You don't have to climb halfway up the trim list to get it.
The system watches wheel speed, steering input, braking, and road conditions, then adjusts power as needed. You probably won't notice it doing anything. Good. That means it's working. Snow, rain, loose gravel, muddy campground roads. That's when you'll notice.
The Drive Modes Actually Have a Purpose
Another surprise. Drive modes actually make a difference. The CX-50 includes Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive). Depending on the model, you'll get Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing modes.
Sport mode sharpens the response. Off-Road helps on loose surfaces. Towing mode (turbo models) improves stability with a trailer. No, it doesn't turn the CX-50 into a mountain goat. But the modes aren't just for show.
Turbo Models Can Tow More Than You Might Expect
This one matters. A lot to some. Properly equipped turbocharged CX-50 models can tow up to 3,500 pounds. That's enough for a small camper, utility trailer, personal watercraft, or lightweight boat.
But check the actual weight. Loaded weight. Not the suspiciously optimistic dry weight printed in giant letters on the trailer brochure. Passengers, luggage, equipment, and tongue weight all count. Easy to forget. Expensive to ignore.
Your Phone & Cameras Add Real Convenience
Through the MyMazda app, available Mazda Connected Services let you start the vehicle remotely, check info, lock/unlock, and locate it. Remote start is the big one. Hot day? Start the A/C before you get in.
Some trims include a 360-degree camera with See-Through View. It gives you a better look when parking or moving through tight spaces. Curbs. Shopping carts. That concrete post. Helpful tools. Still tools. Not an excuse to stop looking out the windows.
See the CX-50 at Art Hill Mazda
At Art Hill Mazda, we'll show you which CX-50 trims include these features and which ones don't. Because that part gets confusing fast.
Visit us, take a test drive, try the cameras, open the liftgate, connect your phone, and look at the cargo space with your own eyes.
Bring measurements if you regularly carry something bulky. Better? Bring the actual thing. That'll tell you more than any brochure ever will.
Frequently Asked Questions About the CX-50
Does the Mazda CX-50 have standard all-wheel drive?
Yes, every 2026 Mazda CX-50 comes with i-Activ all-wheel drive as standard equipment. You don't need to upgrade to a higher trim to get it.
What is the maximum towing capacity of the CX-50?
Properly equipped turbocharged models can tow up to 3,500 pounds. Always check the loaded weight of your trailer and account for passengers and cargo.
Can I remotely start my CX-50 with my phone?
Yes, through the MyMazda app and Mazda Connected Services, you can remote start, lock/unlock, and locate your vehicle from your smartphone.
What is Mi-Drive and does it make a difference?
Mi-Drive is Mazda's drive mode selector. It offers Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing modes (turbo). Each mode adjusts throttle, transmission, and AWD response for the conditions.
Get Behind the Wheel of a CX-50 Today
Whether you're in Merrillville, Crown Point, Lafayette, or Kokomo, Art Hill Mazda is your local source for the new CX-50. Our financing team is ready to help you find the right terms.
