The compact SUV segment is competitive, and a 2026 Honda CR-V vs. 2026 Mazda CX-50 guide can help you navigate it. The Mazda CX-50 is known for its sleek cabin, but how does it respond to your MPG, comfort, and cargo space needs as you drive around Palm Beach, FL? At Braman Honda of Palm Beach, we'll show how the Honda CR-V gives you so many advantages over the Mazda SUV.
The Mazda CX-50 has some excellent amenities, like available ventilated seats. However, compare that to the Honda CR-V's MPG ratings, legroom, cargo space, and many interior and exterior features. With several hybrid trims (like the Sport Hybrid), 41 inches of rear-row legroom, and 76.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo space, the new CR-V in Palm Beach, FL, boasts incredible versatility.
Under the hood, the new Honda CR-V for sale shows its value. The CR-V has a capable 1.5-liter turbocharged I-4 with superior MPG ratings. The Mazda CX-50 delivers 187 horsepower, while the Honda CR-V boasts 190 horsepower while also maximizing fuel efficiency, as you can see in the chart below.
Each model offers a hybrid edition, with the Mazda CX-50 Hybrid edging out the CR-V Hybrid with 219 vs. 204 horsepower. However, the CR-V Hybrid models win the efficiency battle with up to an EPA-estimated 43/36/40 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).1 The best the Mazda CX-50 Hybrid can offer is an EPA-estimated 39/37/38 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).2

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| 2026 Honda CR-V | 2026 Mazda CX-50 | |
|---|---|---|
| Engines |
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| Standard Horsepower | 190 | 187 |
| Standard Torque | 179 lb-ft | 185 lb-ft |
| Transmission | CVT | 6-speed auto |
| Best EPA-Est. MPG (City / Hwy / Cmb) | 28 / 33 / 301 | 24 / 30 / 262 |
| Towing Capacity | 1,000 - 1,500 lbs3 | 1,500 - 3,500 lbs4 |
| Dimensions (Length / Width / Height) | 184.8 in / 73.5 in / 66.2 - 66.5 in | 185.8 - 186.1 in / 72.9 in / 63.5 - 65.8 in |
| Legroom (Front / Rear) | 41.3 / 41 in | 41.7 / 39.8 in |

The Mazda SUV is longer than the Honda model by around 1 inch. However, once you climb inside, things change. The front row has about the same legroom, with the Mazda CX-50 offering just 0.4 extra inches of space. Families prioritizing the rear row, however, get 1.2 inches of extra legroom in the Honda CR-V. Try the spacious specs yourself at our dealership in Palm Beach, FL.
Turning to cargo space, the Honda CR-V has a nearly 40-cubic-foot trunk, and the rear rows fold down to give you 76.5 cubic feet. Choosing the Mazda CX-50 gets you just 31.4 cubic feet of trunk space or 56.3 cubic feet of maximum cargo room.
Customizing these two compact SUVs is similar. Both the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-50 have a seven-trim primary lineup: the Honda CR-V boasts four hybrid and three gas options, while the Mazda CX-50 has four standard and three turbo levels. The Mazda CX-50 Hybrid is classified as its own model with three trims, bringing the total to 10.

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| 2026 Honda CR-V | 2026 Mazda CX-50 | |
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| Trim Levels |
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| Available Interior Highlights |
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| Available Exterior Highlights |
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The final part of our 2026 Honda CR-V vs. 2026 Mazda CX-50 comparison focuses on driver assistance. The Honda CR-V comes standard with Honda Sensing Safety and Driver Assistance technologies, which means you have standard features like Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Traffic Jam Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition System, and Driver Attention Monitor.
Available features, including Front and Rear Parking Sensors and a Cross Traffic Monitor, are a firm reminder that all new Honda vehicles come with exceptional sensor technology for your peace of mind.
Compare that to the Mazda CX-50. Many features are shared across models: Mazda Radar Cruise Control, Emergency Lane Keeping, Lane Departure Warning, and a Driver Attention Monitor are all standard. However, the Mazda SUV doesn't match the full Honda Sensing suite by default. For example, if you want Traffic Sign Recognition, you'll need to climb to the 2.5 S Premium.
Both SUVs have 5/5 ratings from the NHTSA,5,6 proving they're both reliable road companions. If you have questions about the Honda CR-V's safety and all the other advantages you've seen here, the Braman Honda of Palm Beach team is happy to assist.
The Honda CR-V is a little smaller than the Mazda CX-50, measuring 184.8 inches long compared to the 185.8-inch Mazda CX-50. However, once you climb in, it will feel larger. The Honda CR-V offers 41 inches of legroom (1.2 inches more than the Mazda CX-50) and more cargo space to boot.
The Honda CR-V has significantly improved fuel efficiency over the Mazda CX-50. By default, these SUVs are far apart, with the Honda CR-V having 30 MPG (Combined)1 compared to the Mazda CX-50 with just 26 MPG (Combined).2 When you look at the hybrid models of each SUV, the Honda CR-V wins again by stretching your dollar further.
The Honda CR-V has better legroom in the rear row and overall. The front row is a close match, with the Mazda SUV at 41.7 inches and the Honda CR-V at 41.3 inches. However, second-row passengers have less than 40 inches of legroom in the Mazda CX-50; the Honda CR-V offers 41 inches.
1Based on 2026 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, and other factors.
2EPA-estimated mileage. Actual results will vary.
3Towing requires accessory towing equipment. Please see your Honda dealer for details.
4Towing capacities shown are maximums and must be reduced by the weight of any passenger, cargo hitch or optional equipment in the towing vehicle. Please refer to vehicle Owner's Manual for details regarding towing capacities and other valuable information. Towing a trailer may have an effect on vehicle's handling, braking, durability, performance and driving economy. For specific information on recommended or required equipment, see your Mazda Dealer. Hitches are available through manufacturers other than Mazda.
5Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2026/HONDA/CR-V/SUV/FWD
6Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2026/MAZDA/CX-50/SUV/AWD