Compact SUVs remain a top choice for everyday commuters with their efficiency, reasonable price tag, and innovative features. The Mazda CX-50 and Kia Sportage are highly regarded options in this segment, each of them ranking in the top 5 of our best compact SUVs. Interested in seeing what sets these two vehicles apart? Let’s take a closer look.
2026 Mazda CX-50
If you’re looking for a vehicle that accommodates your daily commute along with a day of trekking the trails, look no further than Mazda’s CX-50. This model features standard all-wheel drive (AWD), which is ideal for light off-road driving or enhanced security in inclement weather, making the CX-50 appealing to both daily commuters and adventure seekers. It also boasts a premium design and innovative features, giving drivers a comfortable and connected in-cabin experience.
The 2026 model lineup brings a new “outdoor-focused” Meridian Edition trim option, along with updated interior and exterior design options. Shoppers can chose from a range of 10 trim levels, including the 2.5 S models, the Turbo models, and the CX-50 Hybrid compact SUVs,
Mazda CX-50 Highlights
Turbo Engine: Beyond the base 2.5-liter engine and hybrid versions, Mazda offers a turbo engine option, which boasts 256 horsepower — more than most in this category. This engine upgrade makes for a snappier drive over the CX-50 2.5 S’s base of 187 hp with a naturally aspirated (non-turbo) engine. For 2026, the turbo becomes more affordable with the introduction of a new CX-50 2.5 Turbo trim.
Towing Capabilities: While the standard engine in the CX-50 can tow up to 2,000 pounds, the turbo engine allows for pulling up to 3,500 pounds, making it one of the most capable in this segment and outworking the Sportage by 1,000 pounds.
Premium Interior: In the 2026 CX-50, you’ll find an elevated interior built with premium materials throughout, even in the base models. Leatherette upholstery comes standard on lower trims with the option to upgrade to genuine leather on upper trims.
Read our Mazda 2026 Expert Review or see 2026 Mazda CX-50 models for sale near you.
2026 Kia Sportage
With a new front-end redesign for 2026, the Kia Sportage will turn more heads than before. The Sportage is Kia’s best-selling model, largely due to its innovative technology, spacious interior, and striking design. This car is easy to drive, attracting many daily long-haul commuters.
Along with the redesigned front end, the 2026 model features new daytime running lights, a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen, and helpful tech features, including standard adaptive cruise control and over-the-air updates.
Kia Sportage Highlights
A Choice of Powertrains: The base Sportage gets a 2.5-liter gas engine with front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive (AWD) is available. Kia adds the Sportage Hybrid and Sportage Plug-in Hybrid model to the lineup, offering a range of choice for shoppers.
Tech Savvy: The 2026 Sportage offers buyers innovative technology at a low price. Its impressive standard feature set now includes auto-sensing windshield wipers, optional blind-spot view monitors, and over-the-air updates.
Expansive Warranty: Kia’s warranties are among the most comprehensive in the industry. They offer a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Compared to the CX-50’s 3-Year/36,000-Mile Warranty, the Sportage provides more reassurance for new buyers.
Read our Kia Sportage Expert Review or see 2026 Kia Sportage models for sale near you.
Similarities
The base engines in both the CX-50 and Sportage are non-turbo 2.5-liter 4-cylinder units producing 187 hp, and each can be ordered up with a hybrid powertrain. Kia bumps the ante with a plug-in hybrid, while Mazda goes all-in with a 227-hp turbo option. Each model offers robust safety features and intuitive technology.
Pricing
New 2026 MAZDA CX-50 Prices
|
Retail Price
|
Fair Purchase Price (92620)
|
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
$31,395 |
TBD |
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$33,895 |
TBD |
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$34,645 |
TBD |
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$36,395 |
TBD |
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$39,395 |
TBD |
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$41,895 |
TBD |
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$44,395 |
TBD |
New 2026 Kia Sportage Prices
|
Retail Price
|
Fair Purchase Price (92620)
|
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
$30,085 |
TBD |
|||
$31,885 |
TBD |
|||
$34,385 |
TBD |
|||
$35,685 |
TBD |
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$37,685 |
TBD |
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$40,985 |
TBD |
The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2026 MAZDA CX-50 vehicles and New 2026 Kia Sportage vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.
Specifications
| 2026 MAZDA CX-50 | 2026 Kia Sportage | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder |
| Towing Capacity | 2,000 pounds | 2,500 pounds |
| Horsepower | 187 hp @ 6,000 rpm | 187 hp @ 6,100 rpm |
| Torque | 185 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm | 178 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm |
| Transmission | automatic, 6-speed skyactiv-drive sport w/manual mode | automatic, 8-speed |
| Fuel Economy | N/A | 25 city/33 highway/28 combined mpg |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 3 years/36,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 10 years/100,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety | 5 stars | 5 stars |
| Max Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 110.8 inches | 108.5 inches |
| Overall Length | 185.8 inches | 183.5 inches |
| Width | 80.8 inches | 73.4 inches |
| Height | 63.5 inches | 65.4 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 39.0 feet | 19.3 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 39.1 inches | 39.6 inches |
| Headroom, 2nd Row | 38.6 inches | 39.4 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 41.7 inches | 41.4 inches |
| Legroom, 2nd Row | 39.8 inches | 41.3 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 55.9 inches | 57.5 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 2nd Row | 53.6 inches | 55.6 inches |
| Cargo Behind Second Seat | 31.4 feet | N/A |
| Cargo With All Seats Down | 56.3 feet | 74.1 feet |
Specification table reflects the typical configuration of vehicles shown.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a refined vehicle equipped with standard features for adventurous drives, the CX-50 might be the better choice for you. The Sportage might gain an edge due to its spacious cabin and expansive warranty. If money is a factor as well, keep in mind the Sportage base price starts $1,300 lower than the CX-50. We’d have a hard time choosing between the two compact SUVs, but money talks.
