2026 Mazda CX-50 S Preferred Package

The 2026 Mazda CX-50 is a compact SUV that blends rugged styling with the brand's upscale interior and engaging driving character. It competes with the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Subaru Forester, but stands apart with its sharper handling and more premium cabin. The CX-50's steering is quick and precise, and the chassis stays composed on winding roads, making it one of the more enjoyable compact SUVs to drive. The ride is firm and controlled, which pays off in handling but means you'll feel sharper bumps more than in softer rivals. The cabin is a highlight, with high-quality materials and a clean, driver-focused layout that feels more expensive than the price suggests. Cargo space is competitive for the class, and the rear seats offer decent room for adults on shorter trips. Standard i-Activsense safety tech includes adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, and the infotainment system is easy to use once you learn the rotary controller. Mazda's reliability record is generally solid, though the infotainment system can occasionally be glitchy. Heated front seats, a power liftgate, and the panoramic moonroof set the S Preferred Package apart from the base S Select Package below it. Its 2.5L I4 makes 186 horsepower and pairs with the six-speed automatic and all-wheel drive, returning 26 mpg combined. The 17-inch wheels with all-season tires and the torsion-beam rear suspension are tuned for comfort, not sporty driving.