Which Mazda CX-50 Trim Level Is the Best Buy?Mazda (Mazda)If you're wondering which version of the Mazda CX-50 to buy, we recommend the Turbo trim level.In addition to a more powerful engine, the Turbo adds luxuries such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a 12-speaker Bose sound system.The only options you have to choose are the exterior and interior colors.See Our Comprehensive Mazda CX-50 Make-Model PageShop New Cars | Shop Used CarsAdvertisementAdvertisementThe Mazda CX-50 is one of our favorite compact SUVs because of its sporty handling and near-luxury interior appointments. Choosing from among the seven available trim levels can be daunting, but that's where we come in. If you're shopping for a new CX-50, we can save you some time by recommending the trim level and options that pack the best value.Which CX-50 Trim Level Is the Best?We recommend the CX-50's Turbo trim level, as it provides a good balance of luxury and affordability. As its name suggests, the Turbo is one of three trims that packs a turbocharged engine, this one good for 256 horsepower on premium fuel; the standard naturally aspirated engines makes 187 horsepower.mp-curtet.1/Mazda (mp-curtet.1/Mazda)In addition to that power boost, the $39,395 Turbo adds several items that aren't offered with the base engine, including a towing mode (it's rated to pull 3500 pounds), a head-up display, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, power-folding side mirrors, and adaptive front lighting. It also comes with heated and ventilated front seats, a 12-speaker Bose sound system, leather upholstery, and power-adjustable front seats. Every CX-50 includes standard all-wheel drive.What Options Should You Consider?Mazda makes finding the right CX-50 pretty easy. Once you've chosen a trim level, the only other decisions are what paint and interior colors to go with. Many exterior hues, including Mazda's striking Soul Red, add $595 to the bill.What Do You Miss Out On in the Higher Trim Levels?There are two trim levels above the Turbo: Turbo Meridian Edition and Turbo Premium Plus. The Meridian edition costs $42,490 and is slightly more rugged in looks and capability with exterior decals and all-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels (the other Turbos get 20s). The Meridian Edition and Premium Plus also get built-in navigation, but you can use a phone with wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto on any CX-50.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe $44,395 Premium Plus adds a frameless rearview mirror with integrated garage door buttons, an auto-dimming driver's side mirror, and a 360-degree camera system. Active safety is enhanced with the addition of front cross-traffic alert, blind-spot assist, Cruising & Traffic support (Mazda's name for traffic jam assist), and an upgraded automated braking system that also works in reverse and at intersections.➡️ Skip the lot. Let Car and Driver help you find your next car.Shop New Cars Shop Used CarsYou Might Also LikeGift Guide: Best Ride-On Electric Cars for KidsFuture Cars Worth Waiting For: 2025–2029