The Mazda CX-50 vs. Kia Sportage matchup is interesting. These well-regarded SUVs offer exciting performance and incredible features. Only one can prevail, however. This guide will examine the 2026 Mazda CX-50 and 2026 Kia Sportage performance specs, towing capacities, dimensions, cabin amenities, and more. Get all the details below, then visit Greenway Mazda to explore the Mazda CX-50, the SUV we consider the superior choice in this comparison.
The standard engine for the 2026 Kia Sportage is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that makes 187 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. While this may seem impressive, in the Kia Sportage vs. Mazda CX-50 battle, it falls short.
In the 2026 Mazda CX-50, the standard engine is also a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 187 horsepower, but it delivers a stronger 185 pound-feet of torque. Additionally, this SUV offers an available upgraded engine: a 2.5-liter turbocharged unit that churns out up to 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. That's enough to send you flying down the road with just the press of your foot, and it's the clear winner in this portion of our comparison.
To boot, the Mazda CX-50 comes standard with AWD and has a 15.9-gallon fuel tank. The Sportage is equipped with FWD as standard and features a 14.3-gallon fuel tank; AWD is available as an upgrade. That means you can expect refined handling and traction, as well as a typically greater travel distance between fill-ups, in the Mazda CX-50.
The towing capacity of the new Mazda CX-50 outstrips that of the Kia Sportage, and it's not even close. The 2026 Mazda CX-50 can tow up to 3,500 pounds.1 You will be able to bring a trailer, boat, or pop-up camper along for a weekend getaway or a cross-country voyage with your new Mazda SUV. On the other hand, the Kia Sportage tops out at 2,500 pounds for towing.2 That's 1,000 pounds of potential cargo loss.
Just like we saw in the performance category of this Mazda CX-50 vs. Kia Sportage matchup, the Mazda CX-50 has the upper hand. This powerful and stylish SUV is just one of the many vehicles from our comprehensive new Mazda inventory – reach out to us to test-drive it and experience its capabilities today.
| 2026 Mazda CX-50 | 2026 Kia Sportage | |
| Engine |
|
2.5L 4-cyl |
| Horsepower |
|
187 |
| Torque |
|
178 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD / AWD |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Max Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs1 | 2,500 lbs2 |
Another critical point to consider as we compare the Mazda CX-50 to the Kia Sportage is their respective dimensions. At 185.8 inches, the Mazda CX-50 is slightly longer than the Kia Sportage, which measures 184.4 inches from end to end. The Mazda SUV is also slightly wider (75.6 inches) than the Kia SUV (73.4 inches). Height-wise, the Sportage stands at up to 66.9 inches, compared to the maximum 63.9-inch height of the Mazda CX-50. These numbers are relatively comparable, so let's examine their interior dimensions.
Inside, the measurements share a similar story. The Mazda CX-50 offers more spacious legroom in the front row, with 41.7 inches compared to 41.1 inches in the Sportage. Front headroom goes to the Sportage, which has up to 39.6 inches. The Mazda CX-50 isn't far behind, though, as it boasts a maximum of 39.1 inches of front headroom.
This aspect of the Mazda CX-50 vs. Kia Sportage battle is a close race, though the Mazda CX-50 will definitely thrill performance-minded drivers more than the Kia SUV. Plus, the Mazda SUV can carry more than its competitor when you consider its extra towing capacity.
For a smaller Mazda sport-ute, you'd do well to check out our new Mazda CX-5 SUVs.
Both of these vehicles come with carefully crafted interiors, but there are notable differences in terms of materials, design, and technology. You will be comfortable in either, but only the Mazda SUV will have your passengers remarking on how high-quality it is, thanks to the available leather upholstery and heated rear seats. These amenities are not found in any trim of the Sportage.
While the Sportage has a slightly larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, its standard audio system only features six speakers. The Mazda CX-5 has a 10.25-inch touchscreen and eight speakers as standard equipment. Not to mention, the available audio system in the 2026 Mazda is a 12-speaker Bose® unit; the upgrade in the 2026 Kia is an eight-speaker Harman Kardon® system. Furthermore, this Mazda SUV provides a standard 7-inch meter display, while the Kia SUV has a 4.2-inch display.
Rounding out the cabin furnishings, the 2026 Mazda CX-50 has an additional USB port as standard, along with wireless device charging and dual-zone automatic climate control. The latter two are only in higher trims of the 2026 Kia Sportage.
Moving to safety, these vehicles each have a nice set of standard technologies, but the Mazda CX-50 has more. Examples include Blind Spot Monitoring, Secondary Collision Reduction, Smart Brake Support with Head-On Collision Mitigation, and Vehicle Exit Warning. The Kia Sportage has Blind-Spot Collision Warning and Safe Exit Warning as optional technologies in its base trim, and it doesn't provide any of the other systems in any trim variant.
Our 2026 Mazda CX-50 vs. Kia Sportage matchup shows that the Mazda CX-50 is the way to go. This vehicle offers more powerful performance, enhanced towing capacity, and a better, wider range of standard and available features. When you're ready to experience this new SUV, visit your local Mazda dealership, Greenway Mazda. We can set you up on a test drive and discuss your take-home options.
The 2026 Mazda CX-50, fitted with its standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, achieves an EPA-estimated 24/30/26 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).3 While the 2026 Kia Sportage does have a better MPG rating because it's standard with FWD, it's only fair to compare its AWD MPG figure, which is also an EPA-estimated 24/30/26 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)4 at its maximum.
The Mazda CX-50 can tow up to 3,500 pounds,1 which is an incredible amount for an SUV of this size. It's enough to haul a trailer or your ATVs. By comparison, the Kia Sportage fails to keep up; its maximum towing capacity is just 2,000 pounds.2 Furthermore, the Mazda SUV offers an available Tow Mode, a feature that the Kia SUV does not.
The 2026 Mazda CX-50 compares favorably to the 2026 Kia Sportage. The Mazda SUV boasts a higher performance output, standard AWD, a more luxurious interior, and better standard and available amenities. The Kia Sportage is far from a poorly appointed SUV, but it struggles to hold a candle to what is equipped in the Mazda CX-50. For more information, contact us today.
09/14/2024
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Greenway Mazda, and I must say, the service exceeded my expectations. From the moment I stepped in, the staff was incredibly friendly and attentive. They went above and beyond to ensure that my needs were met and that I was satisfied with the service provided. The professionalism and expertise of the team were evident throughout the entire process. The facility was clean and well-maintained, creating a welcoming atmosphere. I highly recommend Greenway Mazda to anyone in need of exceptional service for their vehicle. A big thank you to the team for their outstanding service
| New Mazda CX-50 | Used Mazda CX-50 | Mazda CX-5 vs. CX-50 |
| Mazda CX-50 Towing Capacity | Mazda CX-50 Trim Levels | Mazda CX-50 Accessories |
| Mazda CX-50 vs. Subaru Outback |
1Towing 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.
2Towing requires additional equipment. See Owner's Manual for towing capacity, additional instructions and warnings. Always use caution while towing.
3EPA-estimated mileage. Actual results will vary.
4Based on EPA estimates. Actual mileage will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and your vehicle's condition. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
