2.5 S Select Package 4dr All-Wheel Drive Sport Utility
2024 Mazda CX-50

Pros: Engaging and refined driving experience; luxurious interior; strong turbo engine; good looks Cons: No hybrid available; infotainment system won't be for everyone Mazda has carved out a niche in the automotive landscape by delivering more performance and driver engagement than you'd get from competing cars. While it's difficult to imbue an SUV with the lively and playful nature of the MX-5 Miata roadster, Mazda's family-oriented vehicles are sportier and yes, even fun to drive. That all plays out well with the 2024 Mazda CX-50, a slightly larger and more refined compact SUV than the CX-5. It's unusual for one brand to offer two vehicles in the same class, so we expected the CX-50 to eventually replace the CX-5, much as the CX-90 has replaced the CX-9. To our surprise, the CX-5 is indeed returning in 2024 even though it makes a less compelling case for itself than the CX-50. In short, that extra zero equals a small SUV that’s just a little better in a lot of different areas. The two are still quite similar, however. Despite measuring 6.7 inches longer than the CX-5 on the outside, interior space doesn't appreciably increase. Rear passenger room and cargo capacity are comparable between the two. Ground clearance is taller though, with as much as 8.6 inches, which plays well into the CX-50's push into outdoor adventure space. So does its special off-road drive mode, and the CX-50 in general is more capable on moderate off-road trails than most other SUVs in the class. The special Meridian Edition goes a bit further with all-terrain tires and an available roof platform, but it’s still intended for dirt camping trails rather than rock crawling. If off-the-grid adventures aren't your thing, the CX-50 remains one of the sportier SUVs and also benefits from an interior that dips its toes into the entry-level luxury market with sophisticated styling and comparably premium materials. Even though it may not be able to hold as much cargo as some rivals and doesn’t offer a hybrid powertrain, the 2024 Mazda CX-50 is one of our favorites in the class for its overall goodness. We easily place it among the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 and Kia Sportage. Interior & Technology   |   Passenger & Cargo Space   |   Performance & Fuel Economy What it's like to drive   |   Pricing & Trim Levels   |   Crash Ratings & Safety Features What's new for 2024? The 2024 Mazda CX-50 receives retuned dampers and steering to improve off-road abilities. The wireless charging pad is also standard on more trims. Last year's base S trim and Preferred Plus have also been discontinued, leaving the S Select as the entry-level model. What are the CX-50's interior and in-car technology like? The interior design is consistent with the rest of the Mazda line, but the blockier, upright air vents add a slightly more muscular vibe consistent with the exterior. Materials quality is similarly elevated, with padded, soft-touch surfaces and high-quality switchgear. Turbo trim levels get soft (and convincing) simulated leather …
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