Which SUV Fits North Shore Drivers?
The 2026 Mazda CX-50 and 2026 Subaru Outback offer five-passenger versatility for commuting, family transportation, changing New England weather, and weekend trips. The CX-50 provides a 2.5L four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower, an available turbocharged engine with up to 256 horsepower, and a hybrid powertrain with 219 total system horsepower. The Outback offers a 2.5L BOXER engine with 180 horsepower or an available turbocharged engine producing 260 horsepower.
For drivers in Danvers, Beverly, Peabody, Salem, Lynnfield, and surrounding North Shore communities, North Shore Mazda helps shoppers compare engine options, all-wheel drive, cargo space, towing, technology, and everyday usability.
2026 Mazda CX-50 vs. 2026 Subaru Outback Key Highlights
| Feature | 2026 Mazda CX-50 | 2026 Subaru Outback |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Engine | 2.5L four-cylinder | 2.5L BOXER four-cylinder |
| Standard Horsepower | 187 hp | 180 hp |
| Available Turbo | 2.5L, up to 256 hp | 2.4L, 260 hp |
| Hybrid Powertrain | 219-hp hybrid | Not offered |
| Drivetrain | Standard i-ACTIV AWD® on gas models; electronic AWD on Hybrid | Standard Symmetrical AWD |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic; e-CVT Hybrid | Lineartronic CVT |
| Maximum Towing | Up to 3,500 lbs. on Turbo models | Up to 3,500 lbs. on properly equipped models |
| Maximum Cargo Volume | 56.3 cu. ft. | 80.5 cu. ft. |
| Seating | 5 | 5 |
| Center Display | 10.25-inch | 12.1-inch |
Specifications vary by trim, powertrain, and equipment. Confirm towing limits for the specific vehicle configuration.
2026 Mazda CX-50 Gives North Shore Drivers Multiple Powertrain Options
The CX-50 lineup accommodates different driving priorities. Its standard 2.5L four-cylinder engine produces 187 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. Available Turbo models deliver up to 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque with recommended premium fuel. The CX-50 Hybrid combines gasoline and electric power for 219 total system horsepower.
2026 Mazda CX-50 Performance Highlights
- 2.5L SKYACTIV-G four-cylinder engine
- 187 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque
- Available 2.5L turbocharged engine with up to 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft
- 219-horsepower hybrid powertrain
- Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive)
- Up to 3,500-pound towing capacity on Turbo models
- Up to 2,000 pounds for properly equipped non-turbo gasoline models
- Up to 1,500 pounds for Hybrid models
2026 Subaru Outback Performance Highlights
- 2.5L SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder engine
- 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque
- Available 2.4L turbocharged BOXER engine
- 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque
- Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
- Lineartronic CVT
- Towing capacity up to 3,500 pounds on properly equipped models
2026 Mazda CX-50 Offers Standard AWD for Four-Season Travel
The CX-50's standard i-ACTIV AWD® on gasoline models supports traction in changing conditions, while Mi-Drive provides selectable driving modes, including Off-Road mode. Hybrid models use electronic all-wheel drive. These features are relevant for North Shore drivers navigating wet roads, winter weather, and trips beyond paved routes.
2026 Mazda CX-50 Utility Highlights
- Standard all-wheel drive
- Mi-Drive with Off-Road mode
- Available Towing mode on eligible configurations
- 31.4 cu. ft. of cargo space behind the rear seats
- Up to 56.3 cu. ft. of cargo volume
- Five-passenger seating
- Available Meridian Edition
- Available all-terrain tires on Meridian Edition models
2026 Subaru Outback Utility Highlights
- Standard Symmetrical AWD
- 34.6 cu. ft. of cargo volume behind the rear seats
- Up to 80.5 cu. ft. of maximum cargo volume
- Five-passenger seating
- Available Wilderness trim
- Up to 3,500-pound towing capacity on properly equipped versions
- Standard power rear gate
- Roof rails for added carrying versatility
2026 Mazda CX-50 Brings Connected Technology to Everyday Driving
The CX-50 includes wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration, Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go, and Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Depending on trim, shoppers can also find additional convenience features, including wireless phone charging and Mazda Connected Services.
2026 Mazda CX-50 Technology Highlights
- 10.25-inch center display
- Wireless Apple CarPlay®
- Wireless Android Auto™
- Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Available Mazda Connected Services
2026 Subaru Outback Technology Highlights
- 12.1-inch touchscreen
- Wireless Apple CarPlay®
- Wireless Android Auto™
- Standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology
- Available navigation
- Available Harman Kardon® premium audio
- Available 360-degree Surround View Monitor
What Do Automotive Experts Say About the 2026 Mazda CX-50?
In its review of the CX-50, Car and Driver highlighted the SUV's steering feel and driving character, noting that it gives drivers “a sense of the road through the steering wheel.” - Source: Car and Driver, 2026 Mazda CX-50 Review
What Are 2026 Mazda CX-50 Owners Saying?
An owner reviewing a 2026 Mazda CX-50 Turbo Premium Plus on Edmunds described the SUV as a practical fit for everyday use: “This is the 2nd Mazda CX-50 purchased. This vehicle is just the right size after the kids are gone.” - Source: Edmunds, 2026 Mazda CX-50 Consumer Reviews
We Help North Shore Drivers Compare the 2026 Mazda CX-50
At North Shore Mazda, we help shoppers compare CX-50 powertrains, trims, all-wheel-drive systems, cargo needs, technology, and towing requirements. Our dealership is located at 84 Newbury St. (Route 1 South) in Danvers, MA, and serves drivers from Danvers, Beverly, Peabody, Salem, Lynnfield, and nearby North Shore communities.
Whether you're commuting along Route 1, traveling on I-95 or Route 128, running errands around Danvers, or planning a weekend trip, our team can help you explore available CX-50 configurations and arrange a test drive.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Mazda CX-50
Which 2026 CX-50 engine produces the most horsepower?
The available 2.5L turbocharged engine produces up to 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque with recommended premium fuel.
Does every 2026 Mazda CX-50 have all-wheel drive?
Yes. Gasoline models use standard i-ACTIV AWD®, while the Hybrid uses electronic all-wheel drive.
How much can the 2026 CX-50 tow?
Turbo models can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. Non-turbo gasoline models are rated for up to 2,000 pounds, and Hybrid models for up to 1,500 pounds.
Is a hybrid version of the CX-50 available?
Yes. The 2026 CX-50 Hybrid produces 219 total system horsepower and uses electronic all-wheel drive.
Where can North Shore drivers compare the CX-50?
North Shore Mazda in Danvers can help shoppers compare available CX-50 trims and powertrains for commuting, family travel, winter driving, and recreation.
