2026 CX-50 Turbo Meridian Edition

The Meridian that was always the Meridian

If you remember the CX-50 Meridian Edition from before 2026 and it was always the turbocharged one, you're right — this trim is that lineage, continued. What's new this year is the black Mazda emblems and badges, a genuinely subtle but noticeable detail change from the chrome badging on every other trim, plus side rocker garnish and hood graphics that sharpen the outdoors styling further. The terracotta leather is unique to this trim in the whole CX-50 range — nothing else in the lineup, Turbo or 2.5 S, offers that interior color.

Because Meridian Edition now exists in two forms, it's worth being precise: this is the Turbo Meridian at $40,400, built on the 2.5 Turbo's engine and equipment. The 2.5 S Meridian Edition at $33,150 shares the styling cues but runs the naturally aspirated engine and skips items like the navigation system and heated wheel that are exclusive to this trim.

Mazda navigation and a heated wheel — features unique to this trim

Two items on the Turbo Meridian's equipment list don't show up anywhere else in the 2026 CX-50 lineup at this price: Mazda's own online navigation system (beyond what wireless CarPlay and Android Auto already provide) and a heated steering wheel. On a January morning in Green Brook Township, a heated wheel earns its keep faster than almost any other feature on this list — it's a small thing until the first cold snap, and then it's the first button you reach for.

All-terrain tires with real power behind them

The all-terrain tires that define the Meridian look aren't just cosmetic here — paired with up to 256 hp (on premium fuel; 227 hp on regular 87, same fuel-dependent split as the standard Turbo) and 3,500 pounds of towing, this trim can actually use the extra grip on gravel, wet leaves, or a half-cleared driveway after a storm rolls through central Jersey. It's the closest thing in the CX-50 lineup to a genuinely dual-purpose vehicle — daily commuter on Route 22, capable enough for a weekend trip that leaves the pavement.

Turbo Meridian or Turbo Premium Plus?

At $2,500 more, the Turbo Premium Plus trades the Meridian's all-terrain look for the CX-50's most advanced driver-assist package — 360-degree camera, traffic-jam assist, emergency lane keeping. If those safety features matter more to you than the trail styling, that's the better trim; if the black-out aesthetic and terracotta leather are the draw, stay here.

Frequently asked questions

What does the 2026 CX-50 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition cost?

MSRP is $40,400, before Mazda's $1,495 destination charge and New Jersey's 6.625% sales tax. See the pricing & leasing guide for current offers.

What's the difference between this and the 2.5 S Meridian Edition?

The engine, primarily — this trim runs the turbocharged powertrain (up to 256 hp) versus the naturally aspirated 187-hp engine in the 2.5 S Meridian, priced $7,250 lower. This Turbo version also adds Mazda navigation, a heated steering wheel, and black emblems that aren't part of the 2.5 S Meridian's equipment.

Is the terracotta leather available on any other CX-50 trim?

No — it's exclusive to the Turbo Meridian Edition for 2026. Every other trim's leather options are black or the limited white interior option.

Does the Turbo Meridian tow as much as the base Turbo?

Yes — 3,500 pounds, identical to the standard 2.5 Turbo. The Meridian package changes styling and some interior equipment, not the drivetrain's towing rating.

Where can I see a Turbo Meridian in Green Brook?

Check current inventory at Empire Mazda of Green Brook on Route 22.

The bottom line

The Turbo Meridian Edition is the CX-50 that looks the most ready for a trailhead and drives the most ready for a highway pass — the trail styling and all-terrain tires from the Meridian lineage, backed by the turbo engine's real power and towing capacity.