2023 Mazda CX 50 Review – The Mazda CX-50, like the CX-5 before it is an entirely new tiny crossover SUV that will be available in 2023.
Having two comparable SUVs fighting in the same class is an unusual circumstance, but there are enough distinctions to support both.
The CX-50 has a somewhat more rugged look owing to its deeper fenders and slimmer grille, which you’ll see on the exterior.
The new Mazda CX-50 2023 offers better off-road and towing capabilities than the CX-5 and many other competitors, which is pleasing given that it’s not all for show.
The off-road drive mode, which cleverly combines the steering and traction control systems to keep the vehicle on its intended path with ease, is responsible for much of the CX-50’s adventure abilities.
The CX-50 features 8.3 or 8.6 inches of ground clearance, similar to the outdoorsy Subaru Forester (8.7 inches), depending on the trim level. All-terrain tires are included in the CX-50 Meridian Edition.
Mazda’s first car manufactured at its joint venture with Toyota, the 2023 CX-50, will be the company’s first vehicle to roll off the production line in Huntsville, Alabama.
The regular 187-horsepower four-cylinder motor is available, but the turbocharged version, which pumps out 256 horsepower when using 93 octane gas, is also an option.
The engines that come with the CX-5 are identical. With the turbo engine, which is sufficient for drawing a little trailer or boat, the CX-50 can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
In addition to its CX-5 sibling, the redesigned Honda CR-V, Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson, Subaru Forester, and Toyota RAV4 are all important rivals to the CX-50.
For individuals looking for a thrilling and demanding drive, the CX-50 is a solid option. See our test crew’s Expert Rating below for a more in-depth examination of the CX-50’s performance, usefulness, and more.
2023 Mazda CX-50 Price
The new Mazda CX-50’s exterior design is what stands out to me. Appearance is subjective, yet it stands out to me.
As compared to the Mazda CX-5 and the segment as a whole, the CX-50 features boxy flared fenders and a massive grille, giving it an unwarranted air of sportiness.
Even if appearance isn’t important to you, the CX-50 may be the most appealing of the group, which would be enough to justify a purchase.
The loaded test vehicle cost over $43,000, far exceeding the CX-50’s starting price of about $29,000. In the more premium realm of compact SUVs, that’s a significant expenditure.
The Meridian Edition, the most off-road capable CX-50, costs $41,225 (including destination) and comes with a $2,800 premium over a base Turbo model.
Prospective consumers must pick between a smaller engine and a hybrid powertrain in order for several small SUVs to have higher performance. As a consequence, the CX-50, with its optional turbo engine, is an excellent option in this regard.
With its top-of-the-line amenities and interior appointments, the CX-50 is a formidable option in an overcrowded market. The CX-5, on the other hand, stands out.
Despite the fact that the Mazda CX-50 2023 isn’t particularly attractive, it doesn’t perform badly, in fact, if you’re looking for an off-road tough vehicle, there are better options.
Read also: Mazda CX-50 Release Date: More Stylish Appearance Compared to the CX-5
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Mazda CX 50 2023 comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that will be standard on all SUV models, but a turbocharged version with 256 horsepower will be available, the base non-turbo model only produces 187 horsepower.
Mazda has incorporated sharp handling into the CX-50, as is typical of the company’s fun-to-drive cars, and comes standard with a six-speed automatic as well as all-wheel drive.
In fact, we lauded the CX-50 for delivering a pleasant driving experience and precise steering, as well as for maintaining a smooth ride during our first test drive.
Later on, a Mazda CX-50 hybrid version with a Toyota engine will be added to the lineup. The RAV4 Hybrid’s 2.5-liter four-cylinder with two electric motors, which produces a combined 219 horsepower, is expected to be the one found here.
We’ve only had a chance to test the turbocharged variant at our track so far, but it accelerated to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds.
Driver Performance System
For the time being, only the 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G engines with and without turbochargers have been announced as powertrains for the CX-50.
However, a future hybrid model was mentioned along with other “electrified powertrains”.
When asked if this would result in an electric version of the Mazda CX 50, Mazda limited it by saying that so far we can confirm that this crossover uses a traditional hybrid system.
For now, all other powertrains and their specs will be released sometime before the off-road Mazda officially launches.
Mazda has also confirmed that the CX-50 model will only be sold with i-Activ AWD, not the front-wheel-drive model. For the kind of buyers Mazda is chasing here, standard AWD isn’t a bad thing.
Each Mazda CX 50 will use a six-speed automatic transmission, although there’s been no word on a low-range gearbox for the i-Activ system in the CX-50.
Unlike other Mazdas, the AWD system sends a small amount of torque to the rear wheels, even when power is biased to the front axle on lighter rides like the highway.
Fuel Economy
The most economical car is the Mazda CX-50 with a four-cylinder engine. The Mazda 2023 models is certified for 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, thanks to the optional turbo, which boosts those numbers by 1 mpg while delivering a significant boost in performance.
On our 75-mph fuel economy test route, the turbocharged CX-50 got an EPA-estimated 28 mpg. You may learn more about the Mazda CX-50’s fuel economy on the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Interior Design
How is the inside? Both rows of seats have enough room for passengers. The driving position was also nailed by Mazda.
The seats are upright, but they’re still low enough to enter and exit. Nothing is too much of a stretch, save for a difficult-to-reach touchscreen, and there’s plenty of adjustment for both the seat and steering wheel.
When you’re using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, the primary screen UI only has active touch functions. This seemed strange to us.
Using the console-mounted dial otherwise requires using one of Mazda’s native infotainment functions.
The dial is centrally placed on the system, making it easy to use and preventing you from looking away from the road. The available surround-view camera helps the CX-50 stand, even more, making it easier to see.
Comfort
Is the Mazda CX-50 a comfortable car to drive? The CX-50 has a firmer ride than some of its competitors due to the same suspension that makes it so engaging.
You just feel more of the road than you do in others, not that it’s teeth-rattling; you just feel it. Even though the seats are comfortable, the sound is still muted.
Despite the fact that the front seats are adequately cushioned and bolstered, the back seat is a bit flat. Heated and ventilated front seats are available, as well as heated rear seats.
Passengers should have little to complain about when it comes to road noise. At full speed, it’s a little noisy, but with just a slight breeze and highway noise, it smooths out nicely.
In the best possible way, the climate control system is basic. Instead of relying on the touchscreen or unresponsive capacitive touch pads, it employs actual buttons and knobs.
The air vents will be appreciated by rear passengers, and it’s all simple to see and get to.
Cargo Space
What kind of storage do you have? The cargo area of the Mazda CX-50 in 2023 isn’t as large as one would expect due to its longer-than-average length.
The overall cargo capacity is near the bottom of the small crossover class, with 31.4 cubic feet of space behind the second row and 56.3 cubic feet of space when the 60/40-split rear seats are folded down.
A big and well-designed center console and large door pockets make up for the lack of cargo space in the remainder of the cabin.
The CX-50’s base engine can tow 2,000 pounds, and the turbocharged engine can tow 3,500 pounds. If you need more power, it’s there. He is near the top of the class.
Infotainment and Connectivity
All versions of the Mazda CX-50 have a 10.3-inch infotainment display, with the base model having an 8.8-inch screen and the other models having a larger 10.3-inch screen.
Both of which are controlled by a click wheel in the center console. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on all models, with wireless connection.
The eight-speaker stereo is standard, but the 12-speaker Bose stereo with SiriusXM satellite radio is available in the Premium and Premium Plus variants. Only the top Turbo Premium Plus has a wireless phone charger.
Read also: 2022 Mazda MX 30 | Equipped With EV And Plug-in Hybrid
Safety
The 2023 Mazda CX 50 comes equipped with lane-keeping help and adaptive cruise control, among other things.
For an additional fee, features such as HEADLAMP AUTO and a 360-degree exterior camera system may be added.
The Mazda CX-50’s crash-test results are available from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
The following key safety features are included:
- Standard automated emergency braking
- Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
- Standard adaptive cruise control
Warranty
Warranty coverage is better than Mazda’s in Kia and Hyundai, as well as several other automakers in this category, and free maintenance is available.
- A limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
- The powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
The Final Verdict
The 2023 Mazda CX 50 Turbo is our pick over any of the other trim levels because it’s available in a variety of configurations, from extremely basic to extremely nice.
It gains towing capability to 3500 pounds by installing a 256-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
A panoramic sunroof, a 10.3-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and heated front seats are among the most fundamental features of the automobile.
