Jun 5, 2026
A silver Mazda CX-50 parked on cliffside near the ocean with the trunk open as a man stands behind it.

 

 

Refining the Beaverton Commute with the Mazda CX-50 and Honda CR-V

When it comes to advanced, reliable SUVs, the 2026 Mazda CX-50 and Honda CR-V are two of the best vehicles on the market. Come to Royal Moore Mazda, our Mazda dealership near Beaverton, OR, where our team of professionals can take you through the various features of these models to help you determine which is right for you.

Which is Better Between the Mazda CX-50 and Honda CR-V?

Engine and Performance

Navigating the diverse geography of the Tualatin Valley requires a powertrain that balances urban refinement with the grit needed for unpaved trailheads. The CX-50 addresses this with a standard 2.5L I4 Skyactiv-G engine, delivering linear power through a six-speed automatic transmission. Unlike the **continuously variable transmission (**CVT) found in some of the CR-V’s trims, the Mazda geared transmission provides a direct, mechanical connection that many tech professionals prefer for its predictable response. While the Honda’s 1.5L I4 engine produces a respectable 190 hp, the Mazda 2.5L I4 Turbo option elevates performance significantly, offering a 3,500-pound towing capacity and up to 219 horsepower depending on the trim level.

Comfort and Space

The CX-50 and CR-V are both designed to seat 5 passengers, yet they offer distinct cabin environments. The CX-50 features an overall length of 185.8 inches, providing a slightly larger physical footprint than the 184.8-inch length of the CR-V. The CX-50’s base trim offers a standard 10.25-inch full-color center display that anchors the dashboard, while the CR-V’s equivalent has a smaller nine-inch touchscreen. This difference in screen real estate reflects Mazda’s focus on a more expansive, premium interface for the driver.

Safety

The Mazda model distinguishes itself immediately as an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation, the highest possible accolade from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for the 2026 model year. In contrast, the 2026 Honda CR-V does not carry this specific 2026 rating in current head-to-head data, giving the Mazda a clear advantage for safety-conscious parents. Both manufacturers prioritize a baseline of active protection for daily travel. The CR-V includes the Honda Sensing suite as standard, while the CX-50 features the i-Activsense suite. While both offer a suite of different safety characteristics, the CX-50 specifically utilizes Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop and Go, which is essential for maintaining safe intervals during the fluctuating traffic speeds common on commutes toward Portland. Its available 360° View Monitor with See-Through View also provides a sophisticated camera system to help keep you apprised of the area around you, something completely lacking from the entire CR-V lineup.

Finance a New Mazda Near Beaverton, OR

After deciding to get a CX-50 for yourself, get in touch with our Mazda finance center for help with creating a payment plan. Our relationship with a wide variety of credit lenders gives you access to many different options to find out what best suits your needs and preferences. Our team of experts can also take you through our rotating Mazda specials, so you can get your ideal SUV at an even better rate.

 

Visit a Mazda CX-50 Dealer Near Me

Due to its excellent performance, comfortable interior, and superior safety characteristics, the Mazda CX-50 is an SUV that truly stands out from the competition. If you want to get a better look at one of these models for yourself, schedule a test drive at our Mazda dealership near Beaverton, OR. If you have any other questions about the CX-50 or how it stacks up against other similar vehicles, please contact us online at Royal Moore Mazda.