MAZDA CX-50 vs. Ford Bronco Sport

Stats Behind Your Next Off-Roading Adventure

The heart of any off-roading vehicle is its drivetrain. The Mazda CX-50 and the Ford Bronco Sport are ready to explore off the beaten path with their all-wheel or 4-wheel drivetrain. Each system enhances traction on low-friction surfaces and provides the assurance needed to achieve your weekend goals. While the 4x4 system of the Bronco Sport is ideal for extreme environments, the i-Activ AWD® system of the Mazda may be better suited to your needs.

This intelligent system constantly monitors driving dynamics and the environment and can redistribute torque as needed to prevent wheel slip. When faced with uneven ground, i-Activ AWD® can send more power to the wheels that need it most. With the Bronco Sport's 4x4 system, torque distribution is locked evenly among all four wheels.

Are you bringing outdoor toys along on your next excursion? Each SUV can tow recreational items, but your choices are more limited with the Ford Bronco. It can only tow up to 2,700 pounds at max capacity, limiting you to lightweight items like jet skis. Conversely, the Mazda CX-50 has a maximum towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds, allowing you to hook up a small camping trailer, a utility trailer with ATVs, or a small boat.

Adventure-Ready Features for the Fearless

Having the numbers to back up your adventures is one thing, but which SUV has the features to make every outing a memorable experience? Integrated power outlets and a wireless charging pad (standard or available with either SUV) help power your campsite and keep devices charged even miles from home.

This is where the similarities between the Mazda CX-50 and the Ford Bronco Sport end. Only the Mazda CX-50 has these standard or available features:

• Rear Power Liftgate with programmable height adjustment: Press a button, and the liftgate will automatically open to your preferred height, helping to streamline breaking down your campsite.
• Special cargo floor design: Pack everything in your SUV and watch it all stay in place thanks to the unique floor design with traction lines.
• Rooftop platform: Carry more recreational gear with you, such as kayaks or bikes, or turn the roof of your SUV into a lifted sleeping space when equipped with accessories.

The Mazda CX-50 also features a power sliding-glass panoramic moonroof on all trims above the base 2.5 S Select , creating a more open and airy cabin while connecting you with the outdoors. Although the Bronco Sport offers an optional power moonroof, it lacks the expansive, full-cabin view of the Mazda CX-50.

Smart Tech for Smarter Drives

Mornings are full of excitement. The Mazda CX-50 and the Ford Bronco Sport aim to streamline your commute to the office with modern tech features like wireless Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™. Sync your device to your SUV to access your phone’s music library, apps, and more while keeping your hands on the wheel.

Do you prefer to begin your morning with the latest NPR podcast episode, or do you have a go-to playlist that helps start your morning on the right foot? No matter how you stay entertained, the Mazda CX-50 and the Bronco Sport have premium audio systems that provide crystal-clear audio, but which offers a more immersive experience?

Further streamline your commute with the enhanced convenience of Alexa built-in. This standard system, only offered with the Mazda CX-50, understands voice commands and can modify cabin settings. Change the temperature and seat position or use one of the growing communication commands that let you drop in on home devices or stream new music.

Rugged Meets Refined

You're cruising through the city on a crisp morning. The panoramic moonroof of the Mazda CX-50 floods the cabin with soft light as the skyline reflects off its sleek, flowing exterior. Whether you're weaving through traffic or taking the scenic route home, the refined Polymetal Gray or Soul Red Crystal finish gleams with depth, a testament to its thoughtful, understated elegance.

Now, take the Ford Bronco Sport, built with an adventurous, geometric design that stands firm at the trailhead, ready for rugged exploration. The power moonroof lets in a sliver of sunlight up front, and bold colors like Eruption Green and Velocity Blue add a pop of personality. It’s fun, it’s capable, but when the workweek demands a mix of sophistication and style, does it flow effortlessly into that part of your life?

Both SUVs tell a story, but only one blends adventure with refinement. The Mazda CX-50 moves seamlessly from the urban grind to weekend escapes, its dazzling exterior and uninterrupted design complementing every mile. Whether it’s the daily commute or a spontaneous getaway, the Mazda CX-50 doesn’t just keep up—it enhances the journey.

Speed, Strength, and Efficiency

Every mile matters when you're behind the wheel of your next SUV, so you seek a vehicle that balances power and efficiency without compromise. The right SUV should make every drive feel effortless, delivering responsive performance when needed and sipping fuel when you don’t. Will the Mazda CX-50 or the Ford Bronco better adapt to every twist, turn, and stoplight in your day-to-day life?

When it comes to blending performance with efficiency, the Mazda CX-50 takes the lead. Thanks to its available hybrid configuration, it aligns with an eco-friendly mindset and delivers higher fuel efficiency than the Bronco Sport.

But efficiency doesn’t mean sacrificing fun: the Mazda CX-50 packs more power under the hood, offering a spirited driving experience that turns every commute into a thrill. Add G-Vectoring Control Plus technology, and you’ve got a vehicle that hugs every curve, keeps you in control, and makes the road feel like your personal playground.

From Rush Hour to Road Trips

No matter where your journey takes you—whether it’s a chilly morning commute or a sun-soaked weekend adventure—you deserve to feel at ease behind the wheel. The right cabin features don’t just enhance your comfort; they elevate your entire driving experience. With standard dual-zone automatic climate control in the Mazda CX-50, you and your copilot can fine-tune the cabin temperature, while the Ford Bronco Sport limits this feature to select trims.

After an exhausting hike or a long day at work, optional heated front seats can help you unwind, soothing sore muscles and loosening tension. While both SUVs offer this feature, only the Mazda CX-50 takes it further with available heated rear seats and 3-level adjustments for customized relaxation.

On warmer days, the available ventilated front seats exclusive to the Mazda CX-50 come to the rescue. With 3-level cooling settings, you’ll stay refreshed and comfortable, no matter how high the temperature climbs—an exclusive feature that ensures your drive feels as good as it looks.