The 2024 Mazda CX-50 is a compelling option for those seeking an adventurous yet refined compact SUV. Built with Mazda’s signature craftsmanship and performance focus, the CX-50 blends a rugged design with upscale touches. It’s aimed at drivers who appreciate a mix of off-road capability and premium comfort in their vehicle.
The CX-50 features a bold, athletic exterior with a wide stance and muscular fenders, giving it a more rugged appearance compared to other Mazda models. Its front grille is large and prominent, with sleek LED headlights flanking it, creating a dynamic, modern look. The roof rails and optional 20-inch alloy wheels add a utilitarian edge, making it ready for both city streets and more adventurous terrains.
The powertrain options for the 2024 CX-50 include a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, as well as an available turbocharged 2.5-liter engine that delivers 256 horsepower when using premium fuel. Both engines are paired with a responsive six-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is standard across all trims, ensuring optimal traction in various driving conditions, especially when venturing off the beaten path.
Driving the CX-50 offers a dynamic yet composed experience. With its well-tuned suspension and Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control Plus system, it handles corners with precision and confidence. The steering is sharp, making it enjoyable for both urban driving and winding country roads. The turbocharged engine provides ample power for quicker acceleration, while the standard engine offers smooth, predictable performance. The CX-50’s ability to handle light off-roading adds versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of adventures.
Fuel economy is respectable for the segment, with the base engine achieving around 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. The turbocharged model sees slightly lower figures, at around 23 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. These numbers make it competitive with other compact crossovers, though its more rugged capability does add a slight penalty in efficiency compared to more road-focused SUVs.
Safety is a highlight in the 2024 CX-50, with a suite of driver-assistance features standard across all trims. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning with lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Optional upgrades, such as a surround-view camera system and front and rear parking sensors, enhance the safety package, providing peace of mind on and off the road.
Inside, the CX-50 impresses with a refined and spacious cabin. High-quality materials are used throughout, with soft-touch surfaces and available leather upholstery. The seating is comfortable and supportive, with plenty of room for both front and rear passengers. The cargo area is generous, offering around 31.4 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, and up to 56.3 cubic feet with the seats folded down, making it practical for longer trips and outdoor gear.
The technology in the CX-50 is up-to-date, featuring an 8.8-inch or 10.25-inch touchscreen depending on the trim level. The system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with the larger screen offering a more premium experience. A 12-speaker Bose premium audio system is available, delivering excellent sound quality for music lovers. Other notable tech features include a head-up display, wireless charging, and a suite of connected services through Mazda’s mobile app.
The 2024 CX-50 is available in multiple trims, starting with the base 2.5 S at around $28,000. As you move up the trim levels, features like heated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver assistance systems are added. The top-of-the-line Turbo Premium Plus trim, priced around $42,000, includes all the luxury and tech features, along with the more powerful turbocharged engine.
The 2024 Mazda CX-50 strikes an excellent balance between rugged capability and luxury refinement. Its stylish design, engaging driving dynamics, and well-equipped interior make it a strong contender in the compact SUV segment, especially for those who want a versatile vehicle that can handle both urban commutes and outdoor adventures.
