Morrie's Auto Group - Can the 2026 Mazda CX-50 tow my small camper or boat around Minneapolis, MN?
If you have a teardrop trailer in the driveway or a fishing boat waiting at the slip and you’re shopping the 2026 Mazda CX-50 near Minneapolis, MN, you’re likely asking whether this SUV can confidently handle weekend towing duty. The good news is that the CX-50 blends the control of standard i-Activ AWD® with smart drive modes and available towing equipment to make light-duty hauling feel natural on city streets and out to your favorite launch or campsite.
Below, we break down the CX-50’s tow ratings, real-world examples of what fits each configuration, and the gear and habits that make towing safer and more enjoyable around the Twin Cities. Our team at Morrie’s Auto Group will also share a quick checklist you can use before you head toward Lake Minnetonka, the St. Croix River, or cabin country up Highway 169.
Understanding CX-50 tow ratings
The 2026 Mazda CX-50 offers two gasoline powertrains with distinct towing capabilities when properly equipped with Mazda genuine towing accessories. CX-50 2.5 S models feature a Skyactiv-G 2.5L naturally aspirated engine, standard i-Activ AWD®, and Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) with Sport and Off-Road modes. When equipped with a Mazda Tow Hitch, these models are rated to tow up to 2,000 pounds.
If your trailer is a bit heavier, CX-50 2.5 Turbo models pair a turbocharged Skyactiv-G 2.5L with standard i-Activ AWD® and add Towing mode via Mi-Drive when properly equipped. With the Mazda Tow Hitch installed and Towing mode engaged, CX-50 2.5 Turbo models are rated to tow up to 3,500 pounds. That added headroom can be the difference between leaving gear behind and bringing it all on one trip.
What that means for Minneapolis-area towing
Because real ownership isn’t lived on spec sheets, here’s how those ratings translate to what many Twin Cities drivers actually haul. Exact fit depends on your trailer’s stickered weights and how you pack, but these examples will help you zero in on the right CX-50 configuration.
- Teardrop and compact campers: Many lightweight teardrops and micro-campers pair well with CX-50 2.5 S up to 2,000 pounds; larger small campers often fit best with the 2.5 Turbo.
- Utility and cargo trailers: Single-axle utility trailers with lawn gear, bikes, or home-improvement supplies typically suit 2.5 S; heavier loads and enclosed cargo are more comfortable with the 2.5 Turbo’s 3,500-pound capacity.
- Fishing boats and small watercraft: Aluminum fishing boats and personal watercraft on single-axle trailers often fit the 2.5 S rating; longer or feature-rich rigs can benefit from the 2.5 Turbo rating, especially on steep Lake Minnetonka ramps.
- Outdoor toys: Small snow machine or ATV haulers can be within 2.5 S capability, while multiple machines or added gear storage may call for the 2.5 Turbo.
Wherever you’re bound—chain-of-lakes launches near Uptown, campsites along the St. Croix Scenic Byway, or trails near Mille Lacs—matching your trailer’s loaded weight to the appropriate CX-50 powertrain is step one. We can help you verify weights and select the right hitch and wiring in-store.
The equipment you need to tow confidently
To access the CX-50’s rated towing capacities, proper Mazda towing gear is essential. Our parts and service teams install the right components and test the system so you can hook up and go with confidence.
- Mazda Tow Hitch: Required to achieve the CX-50’s published tow ratings and designed to integrate with the vehicle’s structure.
- Trailer wiring: Ensure you have the correct harness so brake lights and turn signals operate properly on your trailer.
- Hitch ball and mount: Match the ball size and drop/rise to your trailer coupler height to keep the setup level.
- Brake controller (if needed): If your trailer uses electric brakes, ask our service advisors about compatible controller options and installation.
Our certified technicians can install your tow hitch, set up wiring, and walk you through a quick function test before you leave our Minnetonka location. If you prefer, we can schedule installation with pick up and delivery for extra convenience.
How CX-50 technology supports towing
With i-Activ AWD® standard on every 2026 CX-50, you get predictive traction that monitors vehicle dynamics and helps distribute torque for confident acceleration and control. That pays off when you’re easing up a gravel drive to the cabin, navigating a damp boat ramp, or merging onto I-394 with a load in tow.
Mi-Drive adds relevant drive modes, too. CX-50 2.5 S models include Sport and Off-Road modes for responsiveness on varied surfaces, while 2.5 Turbo models add Towing mode when properly equipped. Towing mode is designed to help optimize vehicle systems for trailering; our team can demonstrate how to engage it and explain best practices the first time you hook up.
A quick pre-tow checklist for Twin Cities trips
Before you point the nose toward Highway 62 or I-35, a few simple checks will make the drive smoother—and can save you time at the ramp or campsite.
- Hitch class and hardware: Confirm your Mazda Tow Hitch is installed and bolts are torqued to spec; lock your coupler and safety chains.
- Trailer wiring: Test running lights, turn signals, and brake lights before leaving your driveway.
- Payload planning: Count passengers and cargo inside the CX-50; don’t overload the vehicle while also towing.
- Tongue weight balance: Aim for appropriate tongue weight and secure cargo to reduce sway; consult your trailer guidelines.
- Tire pressures: Set CX-50 and trailer tires to recommended pressures; recheck after loading.
- Mirrors and visibility: Adjust mirrors for a clear view down both sides of the trailer.
- Mi-Drive selection: Choose the mode that matches your route—use Towing mode on properly equipped 2.5 Turbo models.
- Local considerations: Review Minnesota DNR rules for launches and any posted restrictions at city lakes or regional parks.
If you’re unsure about any step, bring your trailer by our store and we’ll help you run through hookups, light checks, and best practices. We want you focused on the drive and the destination, not the checklist.
Where the CX-50 Hybrid fits
The 2026 CX-50 Hybrid delivers up to 219 horsepower, an EPA-estimated 38 MPG combined, and standard eAWD for all-weather confidence. If you’re prioritizing efficiency most days and only planning occasional light towing, talk with our team. We’ll review your trailer’s actual weights and help you decide whether a Hybrid or a Turbo model is the smarter fit for your mix of city commutes and weekend getaways.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I need premium fuel to tow with the CX-50 2.5 Turbo?
The CX-50 2.5 Turbo is rated up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft on premium 93-octane fuel, or up to 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular 87-octane. For maximum performance when towing—especially on grades or at highway speeds—premium fuel is recommended.
What is the maximum towing capacity for the 2026 Mazda CX-50?
When properly equipped with Mazda genuine towing accessories, CX-50 2.5 S models can tow up to 2,000 pounds. CX-50 2.5 Turbo models can tow up to 3,500 pounds, and Towing mode is available via Mi-Drive on properly equipped Turbo models.
Can you install the Mazda Tow Hitch and wiring at Morrie’s?
Yes. Our certified technicians install Mazda Tow Hitches and the correct trailer wiring, then test your lights and walk you through safe hookup. We can also discuss brake controller options if your trailer uses electric brakes.
Which CX-50 trim is best if towing is a priority?
If your trailer regularly approaches or exceeds 2,000 pounds loaded, we generally guide shoppers toward a 2.5 Turbo configuration to access the 3,500-pound rating and Towing mode. For lighter trailers, a 2.5 S with the Mazda Tow Hitch is an excellent all-around choice.
How do i-Activ AWD® and Mi-Drive help while towing around Minneapolis?
i-Activ AWD® proactively manages torque for surefooted traction—useful on wet ramps or gravel approaches. Mi-Drive adds selectable modes; properly equipped 2.5 Turbo models include Towing mode to help optimize driving characteristics when trailering.
Whether you’re planning early morning runs to a launch west of Minneapolis or hauling a compact camper up to the North Shore, the 2026 Mazda CX-50 brings the agility and refinement Mazda is known for, plus the capability you need for real life. Visit our Minnetonka location to see hitch options, compare 2.5 S and 2.5 Turbo setups, and take a CX-50 on a test drive that mirrors your everyday routes. We can install your towing equipment, answer any fitment questions, and set you up for confident trailering on day one.
Ready to figure out your best CX-50 configuration for towing around the Twin Cities? Connect with our team at Morrie’s Auto Group and we’ll help you match your trailer to the right powertrain, equipment, and drive modes—then get you on the road to your next weekend away.