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The 2024 Mazda CX-50 SUV received minimal changes compared to the 2023 CX-50, which I reviewed earlier this year at Torque News - and a slight price increase for all trims.
What's New in 2024
For 2024, the Mazda CX-50 prioritizes refinement over revolution. While it retains its rugged appeal and performance, the focus shifts to subtle enhancements.
Beyond the performance enhancements, the 2024 model brings welcomed additions to its feature lineup. Mazda has improved the handling, thanks to meticulously tuned suspension and steering. Inside, tech-lovers rejoice as the once-premium 12-speaker Bose sound system and wireless charging pad become standard equipment on the mid-level Premium trim and above. These changes might seem subtle, but they elevate the CX-50 experience, making it an even more enticing blend of adventure-ready capability and luxurious comfort.
So, while the 2024 CX-50 might not scream "brand new," it whispers a promise of effortless refinement, ensuring its place as a top contender for the active and discerning driver.
Where the 2024 CX-50 Roars: Claiming its Territory in the Compact SUV Sphere
The compact SUV space is dense and capable competitors are vying for dominance. Enter the 2024 Mazda CX-50, a newcomer with a roar that's turning heads. Yes, Mazda's SUV lineup is growing fast, but the CX-50 proves the brand hasn't forgotten its legendary "zoom-zoom" spirit. It strikes a stunning balance between rugged handsomeness and near-luxury comfort, while staying true to its roots with agile handling and a playful driving experience.
Under the hood, the CX-50 offers a choice of engines: a standard 187-hp four-cylinder for those who prioritize fuel efficiency, and a heart-pounding 256-hp turbocharged four for those who crave adrenaline. The version equipped with the turbocharged engine inevitably comes with slightly higher fuel consumption. On the other hand, it is equipped with a stop-start system, which makes the difference in consumption smaller than it could be.
According to Car and Driver, a hybrid model will join the lineup later on with a powertrain sourced from Toyota.
All models come with all-wheel drive, making it a confident companion on both paved roads and light off-road adventures. The 2024 CX-50 Turbo Premium Plus trim gets 25 MPG and 23/29 city/highway respectively.
Now, the CX-50 faces some formidable rivals in this arena. The Honda CR-V is a perennial favorite, known for its practicality and spaciousness. The Volkswagen Tiguan offers European driving dynamics and a tech-filled interior. And then there's the elephant in the room: the Mazda CX-5 itself.
But here's where the 2024 Mazda CX-50 carves its own path. While the CR-V might win on pure space, the CX-50 counters with a more premium interior and a sportier driving feel. The Tiguan may boast cutting-edge tech, but the CX-50's intuitive infotainment system and focus on driver engagement are hard to beat. And compared to its sibling, the CX-5, the CX-50 offers a bolder exterior, a more adventurous spirit, and a touch more luxury.
Ultimately, the CX-50's charm lies in its unique blend of style, performance, and capability. It's not the most spacious, nor the most tech-laden, but it offers a driving experience and an aura of sophistication that's unmatched in its class. If you're looking for a compact SUV that's as comfortable conquering city streets as it is exploring gravel paths, the Mazda CX-50 deserves a test drive. It might just be the king of the jungle you've been waiting for.
Trims and Pricing
The price of the 2024 Mazda CX-50 starts at $31,675 and goes up to $44,675 depending on the trim and options. Mazda offers the 2024 CX-50 in eight trims: S Select, S Preferred, S Premium, S Premium Plus, Turbo, Meridian Edition, Turbo Premium, Turbo Premium Plus. Torque News test-drove the top Turbo Premium Plus trim, which comes fully loaded. However, some other reviewers, also recommend the Turbto trim, which adds the more powerful 256-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine and increases towing capacity to 3500 pounds. It also comes with panoramic sunroof, and a 10.3-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Exterior
This vehicle is a cookie-cutter SUVs. The 2024 Mazda CX-50 bursts onto the scene with an exterior that's both ruggedly handsome and undeniably bold. Gone are the days of blending in; the CX-50 carves its own path with a design that speaks volumes about its adventurous spirit.
The first thing that grabs your attention is the prominent grille, a confident V-shape that seems to snarl with anticipation. Sharp headlights flank it, their LED beams piercing through the night with predatory intensity. The hood sits high, adding to the sense of muscularity, while the wide fenders hint at the off-road prowess lurking beneath.
But the CX-50 isn't all brawn and no beauty. Its silhouette is sleek and aerodynamic, with a dynamic tension in the lines that whispers of speed and agility. The prominent wheel arches house muscular tires, ready to tackle any terrain, while the gently sloping roofline culminates in a spoiler that hints at the sporty performance within.
Every detail, from the sculpted door panels to the integrated roof rails, adds to the CX-50's confident allure. It's a vehicle that doesn't just turn heads; it demands attention. Whether you're cruising down the highway or navigating a dirt path, the CX-50's exterior makes a statement: this is an SUV that's ready for anything.
Interior
Slip into the cabin of the 2024 Mazda CX-50 and prepare to be greeted by a blend of comfort, sophistication, and a touch of ruggedness. While it shares some DNA with its smaller siblings, the CX-50 offers a roomier and more upscale experience, especially in the higher-end trims.
Spaciousness with a Hint of Adventure:
Despite offering seating for five in two rows, the CX-50 delivers generous legroom and headroom for all passengers. The front seats are plush and supportive, perfect for long road trips or weekend getaways.
While the CX-5 might offer a tad more headroom, the overall passenger space in the CX-50 feels airy and comfortable.
Truckish Touches with Upscale Vibes:
Large square dashboard vents add a touch of industrial chic to the interior, hinting at the CX-50's off-roading capabilities. But don't mistake that for roughing it – the overall vibe is still undeniably upscale, especially in the loaded Premium Plus trim. High-quality materials, soft-touch surfaces, and thoughtful touches like ambient lighting elevate the experience, making you feel pampered even when miles from civilization.
Tech at Your Fingertips:
No matter which trim you choose, you'll be treated to a modern and intuitive infotainment system. The base CX-50 comes with a respectable 8.8-inch touchscreen, while all other trims boast a larger and more vibrant 10.3-inch display. Both versions run the latest Mazda Connect interface, which is known for its user-friendly layout and easy-to-use click wheel mounted on the center console. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, complete with wireless connectivity for added convenience.
Sound & Charge on the Go:
Music lovers will appreciate the standard eight-speaker stereo, but for an immersive auditory experience, opt for the Premium or Premium Plus trims. These come equipped with a 12-speaker Bose sound system with SiriusXM satellite radio, ensuring your soundtrack stays thrilling no matter where the road takes you. And if you're always on the go, the top Turbo Premium Plus trim offers a wireless phone charger to keep your battery juiced up for the next adventure.
The Driving and Handling of The 2024 CX-50
The 2024 Mazda CX-50 isn't just a pretty face - it's a dancing partner on the asphalt, ready to carve corners and conquer hills with the agility of a sports car. But before we get too heady, let's break down the two engine options:
Standard Powerhouse: The base 187-hp four-cylinder offers ample pep for everyday driving, zipping you around town with a reassuring grunt. Fuel economy is respectable, making it a practical daily companion. But if your soul craves a little more...
Turbocharged Thrill-Seeker: Unleash the 256-hp turbocharged four-cylinder, and prepare for a grin that won't quit. This engine is a firecracker, launching the CX-50 from 0 to 60 in a neck-snapping 6.6 seconds. It makes highway merges a breeze and tackles winding roads with gusto. The downside? You might become addicted to the sound of the turbo whistling its symphony.
Handling that Bites Back: No matter which engine you choose, the CX-50 handles like a dream. The steering is sharp and responsive, communicating the road to your fingertips with uncanny precision. The suspension walks the tightrope between comfort and agility, soaking up bumps without sacrificing cornering fun. You'll find yourself enjoying spirited drives more than you ever thought possible in an SUV.
Off-Roading Ready? (Sort of): While the CX-50 offers decent ground clearance and available all-wheel drive with off-road modes, it's not a rock crawler. Stick to dirt paths and light trails, and it'll handle them with confidence. But if you're planning on tackling Moab, you might want to look elsewhere.
Final Verdict: The 2024 Mazda CX-50's driving experience is a joy for anyone who appreciates a car that listens to their commands. It's a blend of refined power, nimble handling, and an undeniable sense of fun. Just choose your engine wisely: one delivers smiles, the other unleashes an ear-to-ear grin. So, hit the gas, feel the road disappear beneath you, and discover why the CX-50 is more than just an SUV - it's an invitation to adventure.
At the end of this 2024 Mazda CX-50 review, I would like to leave these three questions for our Torque News readers to discuss in the comments section.
1. What aspects of the CX-50 Turbo Premium Plus design appeal to your aesthetic sensibilities?
2. How do you prioritize performance and technology when choosing an SUV?
3. Do you think the turbocharged engine is a necessity or a luxury in today's SUV market?
Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, and Youtube. He has more than a decade of expertise in the automotive industry with a special interest in Tesla and electric vehicles.
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