27 MPG combined is a reasonable figure for the 2023 Mazda CX-50 with its naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine and all-wheel drive. Buyers drawn to this car aren’t prioritizing Prius-level efficiency; they want a stylish, capable crossover that can handle light off-road adventures and challenging weather conditions, and they’re willing to accept a bit of a fuel-economy compromise to get it.

City and highway performance

The CX-50’s EPA ratings break down to 24 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects the engine’s responsiveness and the transmission’s programming, which favors quicker acceleration in stop-and-go situations. While 24 MPG isn’t class-leading, it’s perfectly adequate for urban driving, particularly considering the benefits of all-wheel drive in slippery conditions.

Out on the open road, the CX-50 fares better. The 30 MPG highway rating is achievable during relaxed cruising, where the engine can settle into its most efficient range. However, aggressive passing or sustained high speeds will inevitably drop that number.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Mazda CX-50 4WD 2.5L is estimated at $1,600. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price at the time the rating was calculated. Of course, your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, where you live, and current gas prices.

If you primarily drive in the city or have a lead foot, expect to spend more. Conversely, if you do mostly highway driving and are gentle on the accelerator, you might come in under that $1,600 estimate. Consider this figure as a helpful benchmark rather than an absolute truth.

Real-world expectations

While EPA numbers provide a good starting point, they don’t always reflect real-world driving conditions. Expect to see numbers that fluctuate around the EPA estimates based on owner reports and our own experience. Some drivers report achieving closer to 28-29 MPG on longer highway trips, while others average around 25 MPG in mixed driving.

The key factors are your driving style, the type of roads you typically travel, and how well you maintain your vehicle. Regular maintenance like tire inflation and timely oil changes can positively influence your fuel economy.

How it compares

The CX-50’s fuel economy places it in the middle of the pack among its rivals. The Subaru Forester, a direct competitor with standard all-wheel drive, achieves 29 MPG combined, offering a slight advantage. The Honda CR-V with all-wheel drive posts a similar combined rating of 29 MPG as well. The Toyota RAV4, another popular choice, manages 30 MPG combined in its AWD configuration.

These numbers highlight that while the CX-50 isn’t the most fuel-efficient in its class, it’s not significantly worse either. Deciding whether fuel economy matters more than Mazda’s driving dynamics is a personal choice. Consider the CX 50 MPG across all years to see if older models fit the bill.

Tips to maximize efficiency

One of the easiest ways to improve fuel economy in the CX-50 is to adopt a smoother driving style. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking; instead, anticipate traffic and maintain a steady pace. The CX-50’s automatic transmission is programmed to shift efficiently, so let it do its job rather than manually overriding it.

Proper tire inflation is another simple yet effective way to boost your MPG. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level, which can be found on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency.

Minimize unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Hauling around extra cargo can add drag and reduce fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need and avoid using a roof rack unless absolutely necessary. Roof racks significantly increase aerodynamic drag, especially at highway speeds.

When possible, use cruise control on the highway. This helps maintain a consistent speed and prevents you from inadvertently accelerating or decelerating, which wastes fuel. Activate cruise control on relatively flat stretches of road to save even more fuel.

Finally, keep up with scheduled maintenance. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and tune-ups ensure that your engine is running optimally and efficiently. Neglecting these tasks can lead to decreased performance and lower fuel economy. See all Mazda fuel economy data for more details.