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Mazda CX-50 vs Volkswagen Golf GTI - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (227 HP vs 241 HP), trunk space and price (30,300 $ vs 32,000 $ ) at a glance. See which model fits your needs and budget better – Mazda CX-50 or Volkswagen Golf GTI?

Mazda CX-50 vs Volkswagen Golf GTI: Key differences

Mazda CX-50

  • very slightly cheaper
  • barely more efficient

Volkswagen Golf GTI

  • very slightly more power
  • somewhat lighter

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

CX-50

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.

Mazda CX-50 is very slightly cheaper – starting at 30,300 $ , while the Volkswagen Golf GTI costs 32,000 $ . That’s a price difference of around 1,665 $.

When it comes to city fuel economy, the Mazda CX-50 performs barely better – achieving 25 mpg, compared to 24 mpg for the Volkswagen Golf GTI. That’s a difference of about 1 mpg.

Golf GTI

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Volkswagen Golf GTI offers very slightly more power – delivering 241 HP compared to 227 HP. That’s roughly 14 HP more horsepower.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Mazda CX-50 delivers a bit more torque with 310 lb-ft compared to 273 lb-ft. That’s about 37 lb-ft more.

CX-50

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Volkswagen Golf GTI is somewhat lighter – 3,137 lbs compared to 3,741 lbs. The difference is around 604 lbs.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Mazda CX-50 has the upper hand in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from $30,300
CX-50

Mazda CX-50

  • Engine Type : Gasoline
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : All Wheel
  • Power HP : 187 - 227 HP
Mazda CX-50
Volkswagen Golf GTI

Costs and Consumption

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Engine and Performance

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Dimensions and Body

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General

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Mazda CX-50

The Mazda CX-50 wraps an outdoorsy, adventure-leaning look around the brand’s trademark fun-to-drive chassis, delivering crossover practicality with a dash of trail cred. Inside it feels more premium than you’d expect, though the ride skews taut and the dial-first infotainment may split opinions, so test it on your commute and your favorite back road.

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Volkswagen Golf GTI

The Volkswagen Golf GTI continues to embody the spirit of a true hot hatch, merging performance and everyday usability with seamless precision. Renowned for its sporty character, the GTI boasts an agile driving experience that still offers comfort and practicality for daily commutes. Its iconic design, coupled with an unmistakable brand heritage, makes it a favorite among enthusiasts looking for a dynamic yet versatile ride.

details
Mazda CX-50
Volkswagen Golf GTI

Costs and Consumption

Price
30,300 - 43,300 $
Price
32,000 - 40,800 $
FuelEconomy City
23 - 25 mpg
FuelEconomy City
23 - 24 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
29 - 31 MPG
FuelEconomy Hwy
33 - 34 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
15.9 gal
Fuel tank capacity
13.2 gal

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
3,741 - 3,915 lbs
Curb weight
3,137 - 3,188 lbs
Trunk Volume
-
Trunk Volume
-
Length
185.8 in.
Length
168.8 in.
Width
75.6 in.
Width
70.4 in.
Height
63 in.
Height
57 in.

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Manual, Automatic
Drive Type
All Wheel
Drive Type
Front Wheel
Power HP
187 - 227 HP
Power HP
241 HP
Torque
185 - 310 lb-ft
Torque
273 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
2.5 L
Engine Displacement
2 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General

Model Year
2,025
Model Year
2,024
Brand
Mazda
Brand
Volkswagen
DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. Prices shown are manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP). Taxes, registration fees and dealer charges are not included.