2025 Hyundai Palisade vs 2024 Mazda CX-50

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 was a rugged alternative to the CX-5, boasting a more substantial presence with its lower, wider, and longer dimensions. Its design was fresh, with broad-shouldered proportions highlighted by square wheel arches and faux air vents. The Meridian Edition further enhanced its adventurous image with all-terrain tires, a black hood graphic, and pronounced rocker-panel trim. Inside, the CX-50 offered a pleasing design with quality materials, though it fell short of Mazda's upscale aspirations, evident in features like the manually adjustable passenger seat.

In contrast, the 2025 Hyundai Palisade stood out with its bold design, especially after a 2023 refresh that introduced a more angular look. The Palisade's exterior was balanced and upscale, making it a standout in its class. Inside, even the base trim offered a modern and premium feel, with higher trims featuring luxury touches like premium leather and metal speaker grilles. The Palisade was packed with thoughtful details, such as USB ports in the front seatbacks and second-row smartphone storage pockets, enhancing its family-friendly appeal.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, with turbocharging available on higher trims. The base engine delivered 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, while the turbo variant offered up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft on premium fuel. All models came with a six-speed automatic transmission and AWD, with various driving modes including Normal, Sport, and Off-road. The CX-50 was a competent daily driver, though it 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 everyday use.

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade was powered by a 3.8-litre V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD in Canada. It offered a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms and averaged 11.1 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. The Palisade's ride was firm at lower speeds but smoother on highways, and its powertrain was smooth and refined. Despite not being the most fuel-efficient, the V6's performance was satisfying, and the Palisade handled well in various conditions.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 provided similar passenger space to the CX-5, with slightly less headroom but more legroom. It offered 889 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,595 litres with them folded. While it trailed competitors in cargo capacity, the CX-50's power liftgate improved access. The interior layout was sensible, though the Meridian Edition could have benefited from more durable materials.

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade featured three rows of seats, accommodating adults comfortably. Our test vehicle had a seven-passenger setup with second-row captain’s chairs, while eight-passenger seating was available. The Palisade offered premium features like Nappa leather, massaging front seats, and heated and ventilated second-row seats. Storage was generous, with thoughtful touches like adjustable cupholders and a Smart Liftgate. Cargo space was ample, with 509 litres behind the third row and up to 2,447 litres with seats folded.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 came with a 10.25-inch infotainment screen controlled by a rotary dial, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims added features like wireless charging and a Bose audio system. While the system lacked excitement and felt dated, it was straightforward for those who preferred simplicity.

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade featured a 12.3-inch digital driver display and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Although it required a cable for smartphone connectivity, the system was otherwise impressive, with features like Bluetooth support, wireless charging, and a Harman Kardon audio system. The Palisade also offered a head-up display and a surround-view camera, enhancing its tech appeal.

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 standard safety features like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, with optional enhancements like a 360-degree camera system.

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade included standard safety features such as forward collision warning and lane-keeping assist. It offered advanced options like evasive steering assist and Remote Smart Parking Assist. The Palisade received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS through 2024, though a Poor rating in a new test affected its 2025 accolade. It earned five-star frontal impact and four-star rollover ratings from the NHTSA.