Mazda just announced the CX-50, a new entrant into its ever-growing crossover family, although this one was adapted for the wild!
The Japanese carmaker gained a cult following among car enthusiasts, courtesy of its relatively affordable and no-nonsense MX-5 (Miata) sports car. However, things are a lot more different today, with crossovers and SUVs being the company’s main cash cow.
The latest addition to the series is the CX-50, a more rugged version of the CX-5. With the model, Mazda likes to appeal to the increasing interest in overlanding and camping lately. The market for off-road-ready vehicles is skyrocketing, especially after the lengthy Covid-19 lockdown.
Hence, unlike other compact crossovers, the CX-50 has quite a few goodies and quirks to stand apart. For instance, it retains the signature Kodo styling on the front fascia, albeit with a blacked-out grille surrounded by plastic inserts, which looks much more aggressive than the shiny chrome on the CX-5. Furthermore, the compact headlights look much more striking, while the razor-thin position fog lamps, squared-off air curtains, and a rugged bumper show off its tough image.
The side profile is an even bigger departure from the CX-5 sibling, looking more beefed up with that fat wheel arches. Mazda also used more black plastic cladding over the wheels, more prominent side skirts, off-road tires, and provisions to fit accessories on the roof. Meanwhile, the rear-end features a new sharper taillight design and a chunky bumper. Overall, the CX-50 looks very appealing in a rugged kind of way, and it’s sure to attract customers to dealerships.
The 2023 CX-50 will arrive with the 2.5-liter inline-four Skyactiv engine (187 hp, 186 lb-ft) on the non-turbo version, with the Turbo variant pumping out 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. Both engines come exclusively with an 8-speed automatic that sends power to Mazda’s all-wheel-drive system. Future models would include a hybrid with Toyota’s tech, with an all-electric version also probable.
Since the CX-50 is meant for adventures, Mazda specifically developed the AWD system for off-road traction. Notably, the driver can use the Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) to choose between a Normal, Sport, and Off-Road driving mode, modifying the torque output on the axles.
The CX-50 will be manufactured at Mazda’s and Toyota’s all-new plant in Huntsville, Alabama. Production will begin as early as January 2022. Expect Mazda to unveil further details and pricing information quite soon.
Gallery: 2023 Mazda CX-50
