Mazda is set to debut the 2023 CX-50 SUV with a new name. It's well-equipped to take on compact crossover rivals like the Hyundai Tucson, Nissan Rogue, and Toyota RAV4. The CX-50 is now equipped with a 187-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder or a turbocharged engine version making 256 horsepower. All CX-50 models come with a six-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. They also have a hybrid model in the works that uses a Toyota powertrain. The CX-50 subcompact shares a platform with the CX-30 crossover and the Mazda 3 compact car, so it packs great athletic handling characteristics. It's slightly larger than the company's CX-5 SUV, but the CX-50 is more ruggedly stylish, looking quite different from the refined, upscale designs in the Mazda lineup.
What's New for 2023?
The CX-50 is the latest model for the brand and is intended to be sold alongside the smaller CX-5. They have yet to determine how long these two models will stay together in dealers. The CX-50 has trim levels ranging from fairly basic to luxurious, but you'd be better off going with the Turbo model. It comes with the addition of a more powerful 256-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine and can tow up to 3,500 pounds. Its features include a panoramic sunroof, 30 inch alloy rims, a 10.3-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and leather upholstery with heated front seats.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
All its models have a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, but a more powerful turbocharged variant offers 256 horsepower. The base non-turbo makes just 187 hp. A six-speed automatic is standard, and Mazda has given the CX-50 back-in crisp handling. In fact, on our initial test drive, we thanked the CX-50 for providing a comfortable ride, a pleasant driving experience, and precise steering. A hybrid model will join the lineup later with a Toyota-sourced powertrain. It'll be called the one found in the RAV4 Hybrid, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with two electric motors good for 219 horsepower. So far, we've tested the turbocharged model, but it managed a 6.6-second rip to 60 mph on the track.
Comfortable, Frustrating Interior and Cargo
Like the CX-5 and CX-30 crossovers, the CX-50 offers space for five passengers in two rows of seats. Although the CX-50's more angular roofline and Mazda's first power-sliding panoramic sunroof slightly reduce headroom, none of the seats are uncomfortable. Although simple, the CX-50's cargo area is surprisingly large and has two little cubbies for smaller goods. (For example, when returning to Illinois, these were wonderful places to store some priceless six-packs of Wisconsin-only New Glarus beer.) The payload volume of the CX-50 was 18.13 cubic feet, roughly comparable to the 17.91 cubic feet of the 2021 CX-5.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Mazda infotainment system is the issue. Though technically a touchscreen, the larger 10.25-inch display in our test car (an 8.8-inch screen is typical) usually doesn't work that way. A knob controller is the sole means to traverse the display and make selections while the car moves; touch controls only function while the vehicle is stationary. Before Mazda restored touchscreen functionality when using Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Given how much simpler it is to utilize a smartphone-mirroring interface, they made a wise choice. Although I noticed a minor lag with wireless CarPlay when quickly switching between tracks, both interfaces are wireless.
Even longer-arm drivers and front passengers might have difficulties reaching the screen because it is mounted so high and deep on the dashboard. It is wonderful that touchscreen functionality has been brought back. Depending on the circumstance and how comfortable I felt leaning forward, I switched between the touchscreen and the annoying knob. The rest of the user interface looks archaic and may be difficult to understand if you aren't utilizing Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Mazda is copying the iDrive system from the early generations of BMW before the Bavarians worked out all the quirks.
The CX-50 tries to live up to Mazda's ambition of being perceived as a more upscale brand than, say, Toyota or Honda. Its build quality is excellent, and the inside materials are superior to the competition. The physical controls seem sturdy, and the optional head-up display adds a luxurious touch. The CX-50 may not outperform an Acura RDX, but it will impress when compared to a Honda CR-V or a Toyota RAV4.
Safety Features
The CX-50 has safety features, including Mazda's low-speed City Brake Support with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection. It also includes blind spot monitoring with lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. Its optional heads-up display is excellent and looks very basic in its functionality.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The CX-50 is equipped with a base four-cylinder that is the most efficient. This model is rated for 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. Going with those optional turbos drops those numbers by just 1 mpg, respectively, while adding more efficiency. The turbocharged CX-50 achieved 28 mpg on our highway fuel-economy test route traveling at 75 mph.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Kia and Hyundai offer better warranty coverage than Mazda, and some other automakers in this segment offer complimentary maintenance.
- The limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
- The powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
FAQs
Is the CX-50 Worth Buying?
The cabin of the Mazda CX-50 is superior to anything else in this class, being cozy, roomy, and well-appointed. The price for the engaging handling is a bit heavier steering and a stiffer ride than some rivals, but it's still speedy and entertaining to drive.
Is CX-50 Reliable?
We expect the 2023 CX-50 to be more reliable than other new cars. This prediction is based on Mazda's brand history and the similar CX-5.
Is CX-50 Bigger Than CX-5?
The CX-50 is a tad longer and wider than the CX-5, and it rides about an inch higher off the ground—owing to its more rugged mien—but the average car buyer may have difficulty telling them apart based on size alone.
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