2.5 S 4dr All-Wheel Drive Sport Utility
2023 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 So there’s now a 2023 Mazda CX-50. But there’s still a CX-5. And they’re both compact SUVs that offer the same engines and are only about $1,000 apart. Alrighty, then. So what do you get along with that zero in the name? Well, although both technically belong to the compact SUV segment, the CX-5 is on the small end, while the CX-50 is one of the bigger offerings. At least on the outside, where the CX-50 measures a considerable 6.7 inches longer and 3.1 inches wider than its sibling, and is an inch higher off the ground. Those don’t really translate to a larger interior – you’ll find back-seat legroom and cargo space virtually the same. Instead, those larger dimensions result in the CX-50 feeling more substantial and refined, and a bit more like a midsize SUV (the Chevy Blazer is broadly comparable). The extra ground clearance also speaks to the CX-50’s more rugged capabilities, which in concert with a unique-for-Mazda Off-Road drive mode, make it more capable of tackling unpaved roads. Basically, it’s better for taking long road trips to outdoorsy vacation spots. At the same time, the CX-50 is every bit the engaging, driver-focused vehicle to drive as the CX-5 and every other Mazda. It’s also similarly luxurious, boasting elevated materials quality and a tasteful minimalist design aesthetic with a few extra angles here and there to correspond with the CX-50’s slightly more rugged vibe. Downsides? The knob-and-display infotainment system won’t be for everyone, even if Apple CarPlay and Android Auto can be operated by touch, and tech offerings in general aren’t as robust as those of some rivals. Mazda also doesn’t offer a hybrid version (though few competitors can match its muscular turbo engine upgrade). In total, we think the Mazda CX-50 is more appealing than the CX-5, which was already one of our top compact SUVs. Turns out 50 is indeed greater than 5. 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 2023? The CX-50 is an all-new model for 2023. The more rugged Meridian Edition will be added mid-way through the model year. Mazda also increased prices by $800 in early August, which is reflected in our pricing section below. What are the CX-50 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 on the dash and doors with contrast stitching in a unique criss-cross pattern. It’ll be hard to find a nicer cabin than this for the money. All but the base CX-50 …
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