The Japanese manufacturer is preparing a whole lot of novelties for the near future and while everyone talks about the new RWD platform and inline-size engines, there is actually one model that has been under the radar in recent months. We are talking about the 2023 Mazda CX-50, which is coming to compete in the compact SUV segment, based on the current platform, which utilizes a transversally mounted engine and front-wheel-drive-biased AWD system.
Despite that the new model is going to compete in the same segment as the current-generation CX-5, which has been around since 2017, it won’t replace it. Both models will be on sale and the new 2023 Mazda CX-50 will represent a bigger, bolder and more spacious choice. On the other hand, it will use the same engines and transmission. Finally, there is the matter of styling, which brings a significantly bolder approach to the table.
2023 Mazda CX-50 Design
The 2023 Mazda CX-50 is an all-new model from the Japanese manufacturer. However, it comes with some pretty familiar design characteristics. Unlike some other upcoming models, which will ride on the new RWD platform, this one relies on proven design solutions. It rides on the same platform as the CX-5, with transversally mounted engines and the same transmission. A good thing to know is that the all-wheel-drive system is standard.
Despite the same platform, the new 2023 Mazda CX-50 features a significantly different exterior design. Although there are still bits of Mazda’s gorgeous KODO design language, the new model with full of bold styling elements, including lots of back plastic surfaces, which make it look off-road-capable. The new model is also notably bigger. It features more than 110 inches in wheelbase, and it is also longer and wider.
Another thing worth mentioning is the suspension setup. It is a little bit on the softer side compared to the CX-5. There is a little bit more body roll, though the new SUV is still very athletic and engaging to drive.
Interior
The interior design comes in Mazda’s familiar style. The dashboard features a simplistic design, full of elegant design solutions and is wrapped with leather and other soft materials. The familiar 8.8-inch infotainment system is there, though we have to say that dash looks a little bit bolder, a little bit more truckish.
Despite the longer wheelbase, this SUV also comes with just two rows of seats. Both of them are very generous with space and we have no doubt that Mazda lovers are glad to hear that, considering that the CX-5 isn’t particularly spacious and practical when compared to its classmates. Unfortunately, the cargo area still offers below-average volume for the class. You may count on about 31 cubic feet behind the second row and 56 cubic feet of the total cargo volume.
2023 Mazda CX-50 Engines
The 2023 Mazda CX-50 comes with two familiar engine options on offer. Base models are equipped with a naturally-aspirated 2.5-liter inline-four. It puts out around 187 horsepower and 187 pound-feet of torque, which is enough to move this SUV from standstill to 60 mph in 8 seconds.
If you’re looking for something peppier, there is the well-known 2.5-liter turbo-four, which features a max output of up to 256 horsepower and a massive 320 pound-feet of torque. Just like before, these numbers come if you pour premium fuel. With regular fuel, you may count on 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque.
Both engines come in pair with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
2023 Mazda CX-50 Release Date and Price
The 2023 Mazda CX-50 already had a debut and the starting price goes around 28.000 dollars. Key competitors are models like VW Tiguan and Honda CR-V, while range-topping models will compete with entry-level premium models, such as Acura RDX, Audi Q5 etc.