2024 Mazda CX-50

2024 Mazda CX-50 Gets Even More Expensive

Mazda’s move to split the difference between mainstream and luxury brands has seen the prices of its vehicles rise recently. The CX-50 was already one of the pricier options in the compact segment, but for 2024, it’s gotten even pricier.

For 2024, Mazda dropped the CX-50’s entry-level 2.5 S trim. The lineup now starts with the 2.5 S Select. It may seem like a small change, but the CX-50 now starts at $31,675. The 2024 CX-50 represents a price increase of $2,750 over the 2023 model. That’s an enormous change for shoppers on a budget. It also makes the CX-50 more expensive than most of its competitors.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 Is Now More Off-Road Capable

While the CX-50 may be a close twin to the CX-5, its rugged design points toward its more robust character as an SUV that’s capable of getting dirty. For 2024, Mazda has made some changes that back up the SUV’s off-roading capability.

Mazda has updated the CX-50’s electric power-assist steering system and fitted the SUV with updated dampers. These changes were made to encourage “more all-terrain adventures.”

Drivers looking to do some light off-roading will find the CX-50 to be a willing partner. We also expect the changes to result in an SUV that’s more compliant and easier to drive on tarmac.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 Has A Powerful Turbo Engine

The standard engine in the CX-50 is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that’s not much to write home about. It makes 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, which is more than powerful enough for daily use. What really sets the CX-50 apart for the segment is its available turbocharged engine.

Turbo trims come with a turbo 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. This is one of the most powerful engines in the class and delivers peppy acceleration. Not to mention, the turbo engine offers up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity.

Does The 2024 Mazda CX-50 Have A Large Cargo Area?

With the rear seats in place, the CX-50 has 31.4 cubic feet of cargo space. Folding the rear seats down results in up to 56.3 cubic feet of total cargo space.

These figures are slightly below average for the class. Compact SUV leaders offer up to 74.8 cubic feet of total cargo space.

Is The 2024 Mazda CX-50 Good For Families?

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 is a good option for small families. It has a decent amount of interior space, providing passengers in the back with 39.5 inches of headroom and 41.3 inches of legroom. The CX-50 may not have the largest cargo area in the class, but it still has a decent amount of space in the back. Other compact SUVs will be better suited for larger families.

2024 Mazda CX-50 Has An Upscale Interior

For a compact SUV, the CX-50 has one of the nicest interiors of any option on sale. Mazda fits the CX-50’s cabin with premium materials and well-thought-out details in a package that has great build quality.

The design of the CX-50 looks more along the lines of a luxury option than one from a mainstream brand. We also appreciate how Mazda continues to offer the CX-50 with physical controls for the HVAC system that are easy to use. Compared to the competition, the CX-50 feels like it’s a step ahead with its upscale cabin.

Does The 2024 Mazda CX-50 Get Good Fuel Economy?

Without an electrified powertrain, the CX-50 trails other compact SUVs when it comes to fuel economy. With the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, the CX-50 is rated to get up to 27 mpg combined, which is well behind segment leaders. With the turbocharged engine, the CX-50’s combined fuel economy figure drops to 25 mpg. Unlike most compact SUVs, the CX-50 does come with standard all-wheel drive.

Is The 2024 Mazda CX-50 A Good SUV?

In a short period of time, the Mazda CX-50 has solidified its spot as one of the best compact SUVs on sale. It may not be the most efficient SUV in the class or have the most spacious cabin, but it stands out in nearly every other category.

It has a refined on-road ride, a powerful turbocharged engine, a premium interior, and reward handling. It also happens to be one of the better-looking compact SUVs available. The CX-50 feels like a budget-friendly luxury choice in a segment that’s not known for having high-end options.

2024 Mazda CX-50 Alternatives

The Honda CR-V received a full redesign recently, growing larger, more advanced, and more comfortable. The CR-V continues to be a jack of all trades, having comfortable on-road manners, an efficient hybrid powertrain, a large cargo area, and a stylish design. One of the few areas where the CR-V disappoints is when it comes to tech features. The largest screen that the CR-V is available with is a nine-inch unit.

Drivers seeking an SUV that stands out will gravitate towards the Kia Sportage. The South Korean SUV has a bold exterior design, a wide range of trims, an available hybrid model, and an impressive list of tech features that include a 12.3-inch touchscreen. The Sportage’s standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is a letdown.