2023 Mazda CX-50
Overview
A new nameplate has joined Mazda’s lineup in the form of the 2023 CX-50 SUV, which is well-equipped to take on compact crossover rivals such as the Hyundai Tucson, Nissan Rogue, and Toyota RAV4. The CX-50 is available with either a naturally aspirated 187-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder or a turbocharged version of that engine making 256 horsepower. All models come with a six-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. A hybrid model is also in the works that will use a powertrain from Toyota. The CX-50 shares a platform with the subcompact CX-30 crossover and the Mazda 3 compact car so it offers athletic handling similar to those two winners. Although it’s barely larger than the company’s CX-5 SUV, the CX-50 wears more rugged styling, which is a departure from the more refined, upscale designs found elsewhere in the Mazda lineup.
What’s New for 2023?
The CX-50 is an all-new model for the brand and Mazda says that it will be sold alongside the slightly smaller CX-5, which is on an older platform. How long the two will be in dealers together is unknown.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The CX-50 is available in a plethora of trim levels ranging from fairly basic to downright luxurious, but we’d recommend going with the Turbo model. It adds the more powerful 256-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine and increases towing capacity to 3500 pounds. It also comes standard with a host of desirable features, including a panoramic sunroof, a 10.3-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and leather upholstery with heated front seats.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
All models will come with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder but the one to get is the more powerful turbocharged variant offering 256 horsepower; the base non-turbo offering makes just 187 hp. A six-speed automatic is standard, as is all-wheel drive, and Mazda has baked-in crisp handling to the CX-50 so that it carries on the company’s tradition of offering fun-to-drive vehicles. In fact, during our initial test drive, we praised the CX-50 for providing a joyful driving experience and accurate steering while preserving a comfortable ride. A hybrid model will join the lineup later on with a powertrain sourced from Toyota. We expect it to be the one found in the RAV4 Hybrid, which is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with two electric motors good for a combined 219 horsepower. When we have a chance to take the CX-50 to our test track, we’ll update this story with test results.
More on the CX-50 SUV
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The most efficient CX-50 is the one with the base four-cylinder. That model is rated for 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, but going with the optional turbo only drops those number by 1 mpg respectively while adding a lot of performance. On our 75-mph highway fuel economy test route, the turbocharged CX-50 managed 28 mpg. For more information about the CX-50’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Like the CX-5 and CX-30 crossovers, the CX-50 offers space for five passengers in two rows of seats. Inside, large square dashboard vents give the 50 a slightly more truckish look than the smaller CX-30, but the overall vibe is tastefully upscale, especially on the loaded Premium Plus trim. The front seats are comfortable and supportive; rear seat space is generous as well, but it should be noted that the CX-5 offers more headroom. All models come with a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, push-button start, and a partially-digital gauge display.
The Car and Driver Difference
Infotainment and Connectivity
While the base CX-50 comes with a smaller 8.8-inch infotainment display, all other trims get a larger 10.3-inch screen; both versions run the latest version of the Mazda Connect interface and are controlled via a click wheel mounted on the center console. All models come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, although only the Apple system works wirelessly. An eight-speaker stereo is standard but Premium and Premium Plus models come with a 12-speaker Bose stereo with SiriusXM satellite radio. A wireless phone charger is available, but only on the top Turbo Premium Plus.
How to Buy and Maintain a Car
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The CX-50 comes standard with a full suite of driver-assistance features, including lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control. Other features, such as automatic high-beam headlamps and a 360-degree exterior camera system are optional. For more information about the CX-50’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
Standard automated emergency braking Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist Standard adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Kia and Hyundai both offer better warranty coverage than Mazda, and some other automakers that play in this segment offer complimentary maintenance.
Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles No complimentary scheduled maintenance
Specifications
Specifications
2023 Mazda CX-50
Vehicle Type: front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 4-door, 5-passenger wagon
PRICE
Base: 2.5 S, $28,025; 2.5 Turbo, $37,625; 2.5T Premium Plus, $42,775
ENGINES
DOHC 16-valve 2.5-liter inline-4, 187 hp, 186 lb-ft; turbocharged DOHC 16-valve 2.5-liter inline-4, 256 hp, 320 lb-ft
TRANSMISSION
6-speed automatic
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 110.8 in
Length: 185.8 in
Width: 75.6 in
Height: 63.5-63.9 in
Passenger Volume: 98-100 ft3
Cargo Volume: 31 ft3
Curb Weight (C/D est): 3700-3900 lb
PERFORMANCE (C/D EST)
60 mph: 6.2-8.0 sec
1/4-Mile: 14.8-16.4 sec
Top Speed: 125 mph
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/City/Highway: 25-27/23-24/29-30 mpg
More Features and Specs
