Mazda CX-50 2023
The new nameplate joins Mazda's lineup in the form of the 2023 CX-50 SUV, which is well-prepared to take on compact crossover rivals alongside the Hyundai Tucson, Nissan Rogue and Toyota RAV4. The CKS-50 will be equipped with a 187hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine or a 256hp turbocharged engine. All models have a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. A hybrid version also uses Toyota's powertrain. The CX-50 shares a platform with the CX-30 subcompact crossover and Mazda Tri Compact, making it a head-to-head sports race with two very similar winners. While the CX-50 is slightly larger than the company's CX-5 SUV, it has a particularly aggressive design, a departure from the highly sophisticated luxury styling found elsewhere in Mazda's lineup
What's New for 2023
The CX-50 is an all-new version of the logo, and Mazda says it will be purchased alongside the slightly smaller CX-5, meaning an older platform. It is not known how long the duo can stay together at the dealerships
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
All models will be a 2.5-litre four-cylinder, but what will arrive is the efficient turbocharged variant, which delivers 256 horsepower; Not the fastest sub-server only makes 187 HP. A six-speed computer is standard, as is all-wheel drive, and Mazda sharply steered the CX-50 to incorporate a challenge into its culture of providing fun cars. In fact, during our first look at performance, we praised the CX-50 for providing a comfortable ride while still offering plush handling and precise steering. Later, a hybrid version with a powertrain from Toyota will join the range. We suspect it's the only model that sees the RAV4's 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine with all-electric cars to match its 219 mixed horsepower. We've had a few snags thus far testing the turbocharged version, but the 6.6-2d dominated as it climbed to 60 mph at our track
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The CX-50 Green Max is the only model with a low-profile four-cylinder. This version is rated for 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, but with the simpler selective quick drops it goes up to 1 mpg each, including various offers. On highway gas at 75 mph, the CX-50's turbocharged engine gets 28 mpg. Visit the EPA website for more statistics on the CX-50's gas use
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Like the CX-5 and CX-30 crossover, the CX-50 can accommodate 5 passengers in a row from the seats. Inside, the truck's oversized rectangular air vents give the 50 the appearance of a slightly larger truck than the smaller CX-30, yet the overall appearance is stylishly elegant, primarily in the loaded Premium Plus trim. The front seats are comfortable and supportive. Rear seat space is also ample, but it has to be said that the CX-5 offers more headroom. All models have a tilting and telescoping steering wheel, push-button start and a partly virtual instrument display
Infotainment and Connectivity
While the lower CX-50 has a smaller 8.8-inch infotainment screen, all variants have a larger 10.3-inch screen. Each version runs on Mazda's innovative Connect interface and is controlled via a click wheel attached to the center console. All models feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and both have Wi-Fi connectivity. An eight-speaker stereo is familiar, but Premium and Premium Plus models add a 12-speaker Bose stereo for computer radio and SiriusXM satellite TV. You can get Wi-Fi phone chargers for smartphones, but it's even easier with the top-of-the-line Turbo Premium Plus