2023 Mazda CX-50

There’s a case to be made that the CX-50 is too similar to the CX-5. With most consumers shopping with their eyes, we don’t think the similarities are a bad thing. The CX-50 looks rugged and that will be more than enough for most shoppers that will only tackle the occasional dirt path with their SUVs. If that’s the case, the all-new CX-50 brings Mazda’s refinement and enjoyable driving characteristics in a compact package.

Numerous Trims And Features. Instead of offering vehicles with packages, Mazda has decided to offer its vehicles in a dizzying number of trims. The CX-50 is available in nine trims that range from basic to luxurious. While optional packages would decrease the number of available trims, this method allows shoppers to focus on the few differences in features between trims instead of having to find a model with all of the required packages.

When it comes to trims with the standard engine, we think the 2.5 S Preferred Plus trim is the way to go. It comes with a panoramic moonroof (a first for a Mazda), dual-zone automatic climate control, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, synthetic leather upholstery, heated front seats, and 17-inch wheels.

The 2.5 S Preferred Plus also comes with a 10.25-inch display, eight audio speakers, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, dual rear USB charging ports, and a Wi-Fi hot spot. While the infotainment system has crisp graphics and straightforward menus, the primary method of interacting with the infotainment system is through a dial and a few buttons on the center console by the shift knob. It’s an outdated method that takes some time to get used to. Owners can also touch the main display, though the system is difficult to reach from the driver’s seat.

Perky Performance. The standard engine in the CX-50 is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that makes 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. The standard engine is more than adequate enough for daily use. It gets the CX-50 down the road at a decent pace and the standard six-speed automatic transmission handles shifts well. There’s really nothing to complain about with the standard four-cylinder engine – except after you sample the available turbocharged engine.

The available turbocharged engine is only available on three trims and it’s a pricey upgrade. But the turbo 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine pumps out 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque when running on premium fuel. The turbo engine is a huge upgrade, bringing strong acceleration and noticeably more passing power on the highway.

Despite its rugged design and standard all-wheel-drive system, the CX-50 isn’t a serious off-roader. Mazda’s athletic handling and refined driving dynamics make an appearance on the CX-50 in daily tasks. With off-road drive modes and up to 8.6 inches of ground clearance, the CX-50 can handle some rough terrain, but it’s nowhere close to being a rival to the Toyota 4Runner, Ford Bronco, or Jeep Wrangler.

Small, But High-End Interior. Mazda has some of the nicest interiors out of any mainstream brand available today. The fit and finish in the CX-50 is excellent and higher trim levels match some luxury vehicles. Real leather upholstery, an eye on the little things like the stitching, and simple lines create an upscale cabin.

The issue with the CX-50 is that the cabin feels small. While the CX-50 is slightly longer than the CX-5, the SUV’s rear seats don’t feel substantially larger. Two adults will be able to fit in the back comfortably, but adding a third into the mix is a squeeze.

Cargo capacity is also disappointing. The SUV offers 31.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and a total of 56.3 cubic feet of cargo space. That’s lower than the CX-5’s total of 58.1 cubic feet of space. These figures are well behind the Hyundai Tucson (74.8 cubic feet of cargo space) and Subaru Forester (74.2 cubic feet of cargo space).

Final Thoughts. For consumers that didn’t want to go off-roading with their Mazda CX-5s because of the SUV’s sporty handling and stylish design, the all-new 2023 CX-50 fixes that issue with a rugged design and more ground clearance. While the CX-50 doesn’t have the features or equipment to go rock crawling, its sturdy design, up to 8.6 inches of ground clearance, and standard AWD system make it capable for most shoppers. The CX-50 also comes with a premium cabin, well-equipped trims, and a peppy turbocharged engine.

The 2023 Kia Sportage is a fully redesigned SUV. It has a bold exterior design, high-tech features, a spacious cabin, a fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain, and rugged X-Pro trims. For serious off-roading, check out the Subaru Forester. It’s available in a highly capable Wilderness trim, has a spacious cabin, features a smooth ride, and is offered with standard AWD.

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