Very Mazda styling cues overlaid onto different proportions
History
The CX-50 was an all-new vehicle for the 2022 model year and has continued essentially unchanged since then. The CX-50 is only partly a Mazda design, grafted onto a Toyota platform built in a joint venture plant in Alabama.
Elegant side profile of the CX-50. The window-to-body proportions are unusual for Mazda
Model Mix
The CX-50 is a bit of an anomaly in the Mazda lineup as it is not a Mazda design, offers little more cabin or cargo space than Mazda’s own CX-5 and is more expensive. The base engine is a normally-aspirated 2.5L four, with a turbocharged version of the same engine found under the hoods of fancier models. The sole transmission is a conventional six-speed automatic.
2024 Mazda CX-50 GS-L
| Vehicle tested | 2024 Mazda CX-50 GS-L |
| Body Style | Crossover vehicle |
| Engine | 2.5L four cylinder (187 HP) |
| Transmission | Six-speed automatic |
| MSRP Spread | $39,300 – $49,250 |
| Price as Tested | $39,550 (including $250 Ash Ochre cabin trim) |
| NRCan combined fuel economy | 7.9L/100 km |
| Observed fuel economy | 10.5L/100 km |
Styling
The centrally-mounted speedometer in the conventional gauge package is actually digital
Like other current Mazdas, the CX-50 is elegant, but it’s a Mazda with a difference. While it displays some very Mazda styling cues, including a chin strap trim element that joins the lower edge of the headlights and very clean surfacing, the proportions of the car are laid over a Toyota-derived structure. Except for some odd, matte black inserts below the taillights, the rear styling is exceptionally clean.
The interior reflects a very Mazda design ethos. The driver faces the same gauge package as several current Mazda products and the climate controls are lifted directly from the Mazda 3. Except when in iOS/Android mode, the infotainment interface is not a touchscreen, with most functions accessed by Mazda’s rotary selector that uses a wheel surrounded by four function buttons. Reviews of the system are mixed, and it’s not very quick. With few USB ports and no USB-C port, cellphone connectivity lags many contemporary vehicles in its class. Given the high cost of even the base model, there are more hard plastic surfaces inside the cabin than expected. The seats of the optional Ochre cabin trim pairs taupe vinyl on the bolsters with a black cloth that bears a light-hued striped pattern. Unlike other Mazdas decorated with chrome-like-trim, those in the CX-50 look like titanium.
Shallow infotainment screen limits the view when backing up
Simple and compact climate controls. Note the discreet pattern printed on the taupe cabin trim
Most Mazdas are equipped with overly firm seats that take a while to become accustomed to. The front seats in the CX-50 are immediately comfortable and remained so during a long run. The centre console is narrower and lower than many and does not infringe on front passenger space. Space utilization is good, with ample rear seat legroom. The cargo space is regularly shaped and deep below the window line; the wheel arches intrude only a little.
Efficient air conditioning keeps occupants comfortable and the non-branded audio system delivers pleasing sounds, with audio quality in Bluetooth mode being particularly good.
Roomy cabin with seats that are more yielding than in most Mazdas
The dual-panel sunroof features a modest total glazed area and a miniscule opening section. A conventional sunroof would be a more sensible choice. In addition, the motorized sunshade must be fully retracted, well beyond the actual opening portion of the roof, which is tedious and slow.
Data plate that shows the CX-50 was built by Mazda-Toyota Manufacturing
Cargo bay is long and deep below the window line, with little wheel arch intrusion
Performance
Normally-aspirated 2.5L four is smooth, flexible and quick
The CX-50 GS-L model tested is powered by Mazda’s normally-aspirated 2.5L four rated at 187 horsepower. The engine is mechanically smooth, flexible and delivers a pleasing soundtrack. The base four cylinder is smoother and quieter than the optional turbo engine.
The 2.5L four is mated to a conventional six-speed automatic that does its job smoothly and without fuss.
Steering is quick and direct, but never nervous. Braking is reassuring, the pedal has good pedal feel and no lost travel.
The CX-50 handles with precision and, thanks to properly-specified 65-series tires for a family vehicle, the ride is firm with enough resilience. It is encouraging to see a carmaker pick a tire well-suited to daily driving over low-profile tires on gigantic wheels that punish occupants over bumps.
Road and wind noise are well suppressed.
Pricing
At $39,300, the base GS-L, with L.E.D. headlights, a full active safety suite, including forward collision and lane departure warnings, autonomous emergency braking, a lane keep assist system, radar cruise control, alloy wheels, a sunroof and a power driver’s seat, is nicely equipped. Our test car, featured the $250 Ash Ochre vinyl and cloth trim option. Moving up to the GT adds leather seating, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a head-up display system, adaptive lighting, a 360-degree camera system, a Bose-branded audio system, wireless cellphone charging and, to the detriment of the ride, 20 inch wheels with low-profile 245-45-20 tires; it is an excellent value. On the GT, opting for the turbo, which increases horsepower from 187 to 227, costs $2500. The Meridian trim level and its Apex variant offer little of value for the extra outlay. Leasing the CX-50 is exceptional value this year.
Conclusion
Given its close size-utility relationship with the CX-5, the CX-50 seems superfluous. However, the advanced age of the CX-5 may signal Mazda’s intention to discontinue the CX-5 once its sales start to decline. The CX-50, especially in base GS-L trim, is a pleasing package with solid performance, good refinement, a carefully-honed ride-handling balance and a roomy, comfortable, cabin. Given the proven durability of the non-turbo engine and conventional automatic transmission, the CX-50 is likely one of the best crossovers on the market for those who want to buy a vehicle and keep it for a long time.
Other than the odd vertical elements stuffed with blank plugs, the rear styling of the CX-50 is quite elegant