2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium vs 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
CX-5 2.5 S Premium starts at $35,200, $4,450 less. CX-5 2.5 S Premium leads with 27 MPG. CX-5 2.5 Turbo makes 256 hp (+69).
| Spec | 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium | 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $35,200 Save $4,450 | $39,650 +$4,450 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L Turbo |
| Horsepower | 187 hp 69 hp less | 256 hp +69 hp |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft | 320 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-Spd AT | 6-Spd AT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 +3 | 22 3 less |
| Hwy MPG | 30 +3 | 27 3 less |
| Combined MPG | 27 +3 | 24 3 less |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 30.8 cu ft | 30.8 cu ft |
| Screen | 10.25" | 10.25" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | Yes | Yes |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,770 lbs | 3,890 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.2" | 106.2" |
| Length | 179.1" | 179.1" |
| Wheels | 19" Alloy | 19" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | i-Activsense | i-Activsense |
Which Trim Is Best?
The CX-5 2.5 S Premium delivers value; the CX-5 2.5 Turbo adds features worth $4,450.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium and 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo?
Which gets better gas mileage, the CX-5 2.5 S Premium or CX-5 2.5 Turbo?
Is the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium worth it, or should I upgrade to 2.5 Turbo?
What features does the 2.5 Turbo have that the 2.5 S Premium doesn't?
Do the 2.5 S Premium and 2.5 Turbo have the same engine?
Which 2026 Mazda CX-5 trim has the best resale value?
Is the 2026 Mazda CX-5 a good car?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium?
Who Should Choose the 2.5 S Premium
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium is the right pick for buyers who prioritize value and don't need every available feature. At $35,200, it delivers the core CX-5 experience — the same platform, the same 2.5L I4 engine, and the same safety suite — without the cost of extras that many drivers rarely use.
If your driving is primarily commuting and errands, and you'd rather put the $4,450 price difference toward other expenses, the 2.5 S Premium makes a strong case. Budget-conscious buyers and those buying for reliability rather than luxury will feel well-served here.
Who Should Choose the 2.5 Turbo
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo targets buyers willing to spend $4,450 more for a more complete package. That premium buys 69 more horsepower — features you'll interact with regularly, not just once at the dealership.
The 2.5 Turbo appeals to buyers who want their suv to feel a step above the base experience. If resale value matters, higher trims also tend to hold their value better as a percentage of MSRP. See how other CX-5 trims compare: CX-5 2.5 S vs CX-5 2.5 S Select, CX-5 2.5 S vs CX-5 2.5 S Premium, CX-5 2.5 S vs CX-5 2.5 Turbo.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $4,450 gap between the 2.5 S Premium and 2.5 Turbo comes down to equipment and trim-level positioning. Specifically, the 2.5 Turbo adds 69 more horsepower.
There is also a performance difference: the CX-5 2.5 Turbo produces 256 hp versus 187 hp, which translates to noticeable acceleration differences.
What Kind of Buyer Notices the Difference
Most technology-focused buyers won't find a dramatic difference between these trims — the core infotainment and safety tech carries across the lineup.
Casual drivers who use their suv primarily for commuting may find the trims feel very similar once underway. The differences are most apparent when you first get in, adjust settings, and interact with the cabin.
When Both Trims Feel the Same
On the highway at 65 mph, these two trims deliver an identical experience. Same engine note, same ride quality, same safety features active in the background. The CX-5's fundamental driving character doesn't change between the 2.5 S Premium and 2.5 Turbo.
Both trims also share the same warranty coverage, the same crash-test ratings, and access to the same dealer service network. If your priority is getting from A to B in a reliable, efficient suv, either trim accomplishes that equally well. The choice ultimately comes down to how much the in-cabin experience matters to your daily satisfaction with the vehicle.