2025 Dodge Durango vs 2024 Mazda CX-50

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 was a more rugged alternative to the CX-5, featuring a design that was both wider and longer, with a lower stance. Its broad-shouldered look was accentuated by square wheel arches and faux air vents. The CX-50 offered a fresher design compared to the older CX-5, with eight trim levels available. The 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition, in particular, emphasized an active-lifestyle image with all-terrain tires and unique styling elements. Despite its rugged appearance, the CX-50 didn't enhance off-road capabilities beyond other trims. The interior boasted quality materials and a pleasing design, though it fell short of Mazda's upscale aspirations.

In contrast, the 2025 Dodge Durango, particularly the SRT Hellcat Premium with the Silver Bullet special edition package, exuded a bold visual attitude. The exterior featured a satin black hood and dark accents, enhancing its aggressive look. Inside, the Durango maintained a subdued yet premium feel with dark red Nappa leather and carbon fiber trim. Despite its high price, some plastic surfaces detracted from the overall luxury. The Durango's interior was well-constructed, offering comfort and support, though the performance seats lacked secure hold during spirited driving.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 offered a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, with turbocharged options on higher trims. The base engine produced 187 horsepower, while the turbo variant delivered up to 256 hp on premium fuel. All models came with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The CX-50 provided a decent daily driving experience but lacked the sporty dynamics of the CX-5. The Meridian Edition's all-terrain tires added noise and reduced grip, making it less ideal for regular driving.

The 2025 Dodge Durango featured a simplified lineup with powerful engine options. The SRT Hellcat boasted a 710-hp supercharged 6.2-liter V8, delivering 645 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds and had a top speed of 180 mph. Despite its power, the Durango's fuel economy was poor, returning 12/17/13 mpg. The SUV's AWD system, adaptive suspension, and performance brakes ensured impressive handling. The Durango felt track-ready, offering outstanding grip and control, rivaling performance-tuned German SUVs.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 provided similar passenger space to the CX-5, with slightly more legroom but less headroom. It offered 31.4 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 56.3 cubic feet with seats folded. While it trailed competitors in cargo capacity, the power liftgate improved access. The interior layout was sensible, though more durable materials would have suited the Meridian Edition's rugged image.

The 2025 Dodge Durango excelled in space and comfort. The SRT Hellcat Premium featured heated and ventilated Nappa leather seats, though they lacked secure hold during spirited driving. The second-row captain’s chairs offered good leg support, and the third row was spacious enough for adults. The Durango provided ample storage, rear climate controls, and a power liftgate, with a maximum cargo volume of 85.1 cubic feet.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 came with a 10.25-inch infotainment screen controlled by a rotary dial. While it included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto required a cable. Higher trims offered wireless charging and a Bose audio system. The system felt dated but was straightforward for those who preferred simplicity.

The 2025 Dodge Durango featured a Uconnect 5 system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, and a navigation system. It included SiriusXM, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a Harman Kardon audio system. The SRT Hellcat added Performance Pages for tracking driving metrics. The system was user-friendly, though voice recognition required specificity.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. It offered a comprehensive suite of standard driver-assist features, with optional upgrades for enhanced safety.

The 2025 Dodge Durango's safety features were basic, with standard collision warnings and blind-spot monitoring. It received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with concerns in frontal-impact tests. The adaptive cruise control was functional but occasionally over-cautious.