Mazda CX-50

Introduced for the 2023 model year, the CX-50 is a compact crossover SUV with room for up to five passengers. In Mazda’s lineup of sport utility vehicles, it slots between the slightly smaller CX-5 and the three-row CX-9. The CX-50 shares a platform and some components with Mazda’s subcompact sport-ute, the CX-30. Properly equipped, it can tow up to 3,500 pounds.

Under the hood, the CX-50 employs either a 187-horsepower 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder or a turbocharged version of that engine that boosts output to 256 hp. (Examples with the more powerful mill are denoted by the word “Turbo” in the trim name.) Both versions of the engine pair with a standard six-speed automatic transmission that routes power to all four wheels. No hybrid or electric variants have been produced so far.

Mazda builds the CX-50 in a wide range of trims, which range from the base-level S to the top-tier Turbo Premium Plus. Standard equipment includes LED headlights and an 8.8-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Also standard is forward collision mitigation, blind-spot warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The slightly upgraded Select trim features those items plus dual-zone automatic climate control, a 10.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, and rear-seat USB ports. The mid-range Preferred also gets a power liftgate, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver seat, and the Preferred Plus adds a panoramic sunroof to that list. At the higher end, the Premium features leather upholstery and a 12-speaker Bose audio system, while the Premium Plus further includes ventilated front seats and a head-up display. The Turbo trims get the more powerful engine but are otherwise equipped similarly to non-turbo models. Buyers looking for the most capable off-road trim should target the Turbo Meridian Edition, which offers all-terrain tires and more rugged-looking styling elements. The most luxurious CX-50 trim is the Turbo Premium Plus, which boasts a handful of goodies not offered on any other model, such as heated rear seats, parking sensors, navigation, a wireless smartphone charger, and a surround-view camera.