The CX-50 will be slightly more expensive than the CX-5, justifying the price increase with a focus on off-roading.
Mazda says “Konichiwa” to the people in the United States with the new 2023 CX-50, the rugged cousin to the CX-5. This will be the brand’s first vehicle to roll off the lines at the Mazda Toyota Manufacturing (MTM) plant in Huntsville, Alabama.
The new CX-50 is made under Mazda’s signature KODO design language. Mazda describes it as the Soul of Motion which flaunts the movement of nature in graceful and energetic lines.
Mazda offers the new CX-50 in ten different trim packages and two powertrain options. The base 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G inline-4 engine produces 187 hp and a 186 lb-ft of torque, and the turbocharged variant produces 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. The power goes to Mazda’s advanced Active All-Wheel Drive system via a six-speed automatic transmission.
To enhance the driving experience when mother nature goes a bit wicked, Mazda has loaded the CX-50 with Mi-Drive with Sport, which allows the driver to change the drive mode. Moreover, Mazda offers Off-road and Towing modes on select packages, improving the towing capacity from 2,000 to 3,500 pounds. Soon, the CX-50 buyers can also choose a Toyota hybrid powertrain.
The CX-50 looks quite attractive, especially for adventure seekers, but it will cost you. Namely, the base CX-50 2.5 S trim with the naturally aspirated engine and 17-inch gray metallic alloys starts at $28,025. Meanwhile, the Select S Package with interior LED lights and a 10.25-inch center infotainment screen goes for $29,425.
Furthermore, the Preferred and Preferred Plus packages go for $30,725 and $33,165, respectively, and include an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat in the Preferred trim and Mazda’s first-ever power-sliding panoramic moonroof in the Preferred Plus trim.
The high-end CX-50 2.5 S Premium package offers a Bose 12-speaker premium audio system with Centerpoint and an AudioPilot and starts at $35,625. Finally, the Premium Plus starts at $37,625. It offers 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with machine-cut black metallic accent, ventilated front seats, and a full-color Active Driving Display projected on the windshield.
Mazda’s turbocharged engine is available in the CX-50 2.5 Turbo, Turbo Premium, and Turbo Premium Plus packages. The turbo range also enjoys the upgraded 3,500-pound towing capacity and all sets of clever driving modes. The turbo upgrade range will set you back $37,625, $39,550, and $41,550 respectively.
With the expectations of the new CX-50 hitting dealerships soon, Mazda also promised a new Meridian Edition. This special version will get all-terrain tires sitting on 18-inch wheels and other brawny off-road accessories.
Overall, the CX-50 is $900 more expensive than the CX-5 on average, creating competition within Mazda’s range, and possibly killing one of the models. Regardless, it’s great that the market is richer for an adventure-focused crossover that also looks the part!
Gallery: 2023 Mazda CX-50
