Bob Penkhus Mazda at Powers - Can the 2026 Mazda CX-50 Tow My Camper near Colorado Springs, CO?
The answer to weekend adventures around Pikes Peak often comes down to one practical decision: can your SUV confidently tow the gear you love? At Bob Penkhus Mazda at Powers, we talk with shoppers every day who want to take a small camper up Ute Pass, haul bikes and kayaks to Mueller State Park, or tow a utility trailer across Monument Hill. The 2026 Mazda CX-50 was engineered for exactly that lifestyle, blending composed on-road manners with the capability to handle Colorado’s elevation, grades, and changing weather.
To keep your research focused, this guide zeroes in on one core FAQ for in-market shoppers: towing. Below, we outline what the 2026 CX-50 can pull, how its systems support you while towing, and which configuration makes sense for your plans around Colorado Springs. Every 2026 CX-50 comes standard with i-Activ AWD® and Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive). On 2.5 Turbo models, a dedicated Towing mode is added when properly equipped with Mazda genuine towing accessories, helping the powertrain and stability systems work in concert when a trailer is attached.
Here is a quick overview of the towing foundation you get with the 2026 CX-50, followed by guidance tailored to Colorado terrain.
- Engine choices: CX-50 2.5 S models use a Skyactiv-G 2.5L naturally aspirated engine; 2.5 Turbo models add a turbocharger for increased torque.
- Towing capacities: When properly equipped, 2.5 S models can tow up to 2,000 lbs, while 2.5 Turbo models can tow up to 3,500 lbs with Towing mode engaged.
- Standard traction: i-Activ AWD® is standard across the lineup, working with Mi-Drive drive modes. Normal, Sport, and Off-Road are standard; Towing is added on 2.5 Turbo models when properly equipped.
- Hitch and wiring: Mazda genuine accessories include a Tow Hitch and trailer wiring harness designed for proper fitment and electrical integration.
Because Colorado Springs sits at a higher elevation and many routes include sustained climbs — think I-25 over Monument Hill or the steady pull toward Woodland Park — selecting the right CX-50 for your trailer weight matters. We generally recommend the 2.5 Turbo for frequent or heavier towing, thanks to its robust torque and the added confidence of Towing mode when properly equipped. For lighter duties — a small utility trailer for landscaping projects, a pair of dirt bikes, or a lightweight teardrop — a properly equipped 2.5 S model is a smart, efficient match.
To simplify your choice, consider how and where you tow most often around the Front Range and into the foothills.
- Mountain weekends: If your plans include long grades to spots like Eleven Mile Reservoir or camping off Rampart Range Road, the 2.5 Turbo’s available Towing mode and stronger torque are ideal for managing elevation and headwinds.
- Around-town utility: For trips to local trailheads, moving yard equipment, or occasional gear runs, a 2.5 S model that is properly equipped for towing handles small loads with ease.
- Hybrid shoppers: If efficiency is your priority, the CX-50 Hybrid offers 219 horsepower with on-demand eAWD. For trailer compatibility and accessory guidance, our team will tailor recommendations to your specific setup.
Beyond power and traction, the 2026 CX-50 supports towing with available driver-assistance and visibility technology that can reduce fatigue on longer hauls. On upper trims, features such as the 360° View Monitor with See-Through View, Blind Spot Assist, Front Cross Traffic Alert, Traffic Jam Assist, and Smart Brake Support with Turn-Across Traffic and Front Crossing detection help you stay aware when merging, parking with a trailer, or navigating tight campsites at dusk. Adaptive Front-lighting System and Signature LED headlights with auto-leveling further enhance confidence after sunset.
Preparation is just as important as the right SUV. Whether you are outfitting a new CX-50 2.5 S Preferred with the Tow Hitch or stepping into a 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus, our certified technicians can install Mazda genuine accessories and confirm harness integration before you head for the hills. Here are a few local-minded tips as you plan your first tow from Colorado Springs.
- Altitude awareness: Higher elevations can affect engine output — allow extra passing distance on grades and monitor your speed on descents.
- Hitch setup: Use Mazda genuine Tow Hitch hardware and verify tongue weight, ball height, and torque specs before each trip.
- Weight distribution: Pack heavier items low and centered over the trailer axle, and balance left-to-right to minimize sway.
- Braking strategy: Increase following distance and, for heavier trailers, consider a trailer brake setup where applicable.
- Route planning: Expect wind over Monument Hill and variable weather toward Woodland Park — check conditions and plan fuel and rest stops.
When you are ready, our team at Bob Penkhus Mazda at Powers will help you test-drive the 2026 Mazda CX-50 on the roads you actually drive, review your trailer specs, and outfit the right accessories. We can also walk you through Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto connectivity, and i-Activsense® safety features so your drive to the campsite is as seamless as the campsite itself. If you prefer, start online — we offer easy tools to explore inventory and arrange delivery in Colorado.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Does every 2026 Mazda CX-50 include a Towing mode in Mi-Drive?
Mi-Drive includes Normal, Sport, and Off-Road modes across the lineup. On 2.5 Turbo models, Towing mode is added when the vehicle is properly equipped with Mazda genuine towing accessories.
What is the towing capacity of the 2026 Mazda CX-50?
When properly equipped, CX-50 2.5 S models can tow up to 2,000 lbs, and CX-50 2.5 Turbo models can tow up to 3,500 lbs with Towing mode engaged.
Is i-Activ AWD® standard on the 2026 CX-50?
Yes. i-Activ AWD® is standard on every 2026 CX-50 and works with Mi-Drive to help optimize traction on dry pavement, snowy passes, and graded fire roads around Colorado Springs.
Can I use Alexa Built-in or Apple CarPlay® while towing?
Yes. The CX-50 offers Alexa Built-in and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto, so you can stay connected hands-free while you focus on the road and your trailer. Feature availability varies by trim — our team will confirm the best match for your needs.
Which accessories do I need to start towing safely?
We recommend the Mazda genuine Tow Hitch and trailer wiring harness for proper fitment and electrical integration. Our service team can install and test your setup, confirm lighting function, and review pre-trip checks with you before your first tow.