Mazda CX-50 Hybrid

Mazda has expanded its CX-50 lineup with a hybrid variant, adapting the 219-hp powertrain from the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. This swap brings some added oomph over the regular CX-50, which feels underpowered. More importantly, it's much more fuel-efficient at an impressive 37 mpg overall in our testing. The CX-50 Hybrid can propel itself on electric power at low speeds with a light throttle foot, but even moderate levels of acceleration bring considerable racket from the engine, made more pronounced by the way the eCVT allows revs to rise sky-high. The CX-50's direct and well-weighted steering remains, as does the SUV's responsive character on twisty roads. The ride is firm yet absorbent, and improved over the original CX-50 we tested.