The 2024 Mazda CX-50 arrives with a bang, aiming to carve a unique niche in the crowded compact SUV segment. It boasts rugged looks, standard all-wheel drive, and a focus on driving engagement, but does it truly deliver on its adventurous promises? Let’s delve into the details and see if the CX-50 lives up to the hype.
Performance and Handling:
- Two Engine Options: Choose between a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 187 horsepower or a turbocharged version boasting 256 horsepower. Both engines pair with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission. The base engine provides adequate power for daily commutes, while the turbo delivers exhilarating acceleration and a more engaging driving experience.
- Sharp Handling: Mazda lives up to its reputation for sporty dynamics. The CX-50 offers sharp steering, responsive handling, and minimal body roll, making it a blast to drive on winding roads. However, the ride quality can be firm at times, especially on rough terrain.
- Standard All-Wheel Drive: All CX-50 models come equipped with standard all-wheel drive, enhancing confidence and control in various weather conditions and light off-road adventures. However, it’s not a dedicated off-road system, limiting its true rugged capabilities.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency:
- Mixed Results: Fuel economy figures vary depending on engine choice and driving habits. The base engine achieves EPA estimates of 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, which are decent for the segment. The turbo option sees a slight decrease to 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, still respectable considering its performance.
Interior and Comfort:
- Stylish and Upscale: The cabin boasts a premium feel with high-quality materials, soft-touch surfaces, and thoughtful design elements. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, while the rear seats offer decent legroom for two adults. However, headroom might be limited for taller passengers.
- Cargo Space: Cargo space is average for the segment, offering 19.1 cubic feet behind the rear seats and expanding to 45.2 cubic feet with the seats folded. While sufficient for everyday needs, it might not be ideal for frequent adventurers requiring maximum cargo capacity.
Technology and Features:
- Standard Tech Suite: Even the base trim comes equipped with a user-friendly 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a comprehensive suite of safety features including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.
- Higher Trims Offer More Luxury: Opting for higher trims unlocks additional features like a larger touchscreen, navigation, Bose sound system, head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system.
Off-Road Capability:
- More Style than Substance: While the CX-50 boasts rugged looks and standard all-wheel drive, its off-road prowess is limited. It lacks features like ground clearance adjustability, hill descent control, and dedicated off-road driving modes, hindering its true ability to tackle challenging terrain.
Overall Value:
The 2024 Mazda CX-50 starts at a competitive price point within the compact SUV segment. Its combination of sporty handling, premium interior, and standard all-wheel drive makes it a compelling choice for drivers seeking a stylish and fun-to-drive SUV. However, its limited cargo space, lack of true off-road capability, and slightly firm ride quality might be dealbreakers for some.
