58 » OpenRoad Driver
2023 Mazda CX-50
»
Mazda ’ s SUV lineup grows again with the introduction of the CX-50 . Sold alongside the similarly sized CX-5 in the same compact crossover segment , why did Mazda decide to introduce a second SUV to potentially compete with one another ?
The short answer is : Mazda realized there ’ s enough demand in North America to add a second , more rugged model to go alongside its road-friendly CX-5 . Designed specifically for North America which favours larger and tougher vehicles , Mazda engineers designed the CX-50 without having to consider the CX-5 ’ s size and design limitations .
Dimensionally , this means the CX-50 is 146 mm longer and 75 mm wider with a 116 mm longer wheelbase than the CX-5 . It also sits 25 mm higher off the ground , but its shorter overall height gives it a wagon-like silhouette . The lower roofline provides better access to the roof where Mazda ’ s engineers claim that it ’ s solid enough to support the weight of two adults with a tent .
Inside , the two-row SUV seats five comfortably with an interior that looks and feels more premium than its competitors . The seats have supple leather , the dashboard has a clean design , and the expansive panorama roof - a first for Mazda - keeps the cabin bright and airy for all passengers . The lengthened wheelbase gives rear passengers more legroom , while the rear doors open at 90-degree angles to make entry and exit easy for those with very young passengers .
Two engine options are available for the new CX-50 . A naturally aspirated 2.5-litre inline-4 engine serves as the standard engine with 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque , or buyers can upgrade to a turbocharged variant that delivers 255 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels . Extra cooling capacity in the turbocharged CX-50 enables up to 1,588 kg of towing ability .
For a vehicle that ’ s designed specifically for the North American market , it ’ s fitting the CX-50 is Mazda ’ s first model to be built on the same continent . Designed and built for our unique needs , the CX-50 is destined to be another sales success for Mazda .