2023 Mazda CX-50 AWD Review: Price, Specs and More

*Disclosure: The 2023 Mazda CX-50 (Compact SUV) was provided to me for testing purposes and editorial consideration. All opinions are 100% my own*

After jumping on the off-roading bandwagon that became extremely prevalent when COVID-19 hit, Mazda unveiled the 2023 Mazda CX-50 in November 2021. The brand was looking to inspire people to tap into their creative side, spend more time in nature and continue social distancing with the new nameplate.

Although things have become a lot more relaxed when it comes to COVID/social distancing, the gorgeous, adventurous and rugged first-generation CX-50 SUV still inspires in more ways than one.

Keep reading to learn how…

2023 Mazda CX-50 AWD

Who is the Compact SUV for?

• Singles, couples or small families looking for adventure and versatility.
• Anyone looking for a vehicle that is fun to drive and great for long road trips.
• Outdoor Enthusiasts.
• Drivers looking for a compact SUV that is equipped for both on-roading and off-roading.
• Buyers looking for a fuel-efficient compact SUV that is sleek, luxe/comfortable, rugged and well equipped.
• Buyers looking for a brand with a history of reliability.

What we loved about the Mazda CX-50

• Fun to drive
• Stylish exterior
• Quick acceleration from optional turbocharged engine
• Sharp handling
• Upscale interior design
• Comfortable interior
• AWD
• Seats 5
• Bose 12-speaker premium audio system
• Active driving display
• Backup Camera
• Safety technology
• Mazda HMI Commander a/k/a middle console area
• Cargo space
• Push button start
• Rain-sensing windshield wipers

Engine/Transmission/HP/Torque/Drive train on all trim levels include:

Base Models:

• Engine: SKYACTIV -G 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine
• HP: 187 horsepower
• Torque: 186 lb-ft
• Transmission: Six-speed automatic trans

Turbo Models:

• Turbo Engine: More muscular turbo, SKYACTIV -G 2.5-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine
• HP: 256 horsepower
• Torque: 320 lb-ft when using 93 octane fuel.

Drive Train:

• All trim levels come standard w/i-ACTIV AWD

Note:

• The Turbo models gets this type of performance when using 93 octane fuel. Lower octane fuels will reduce power slightly.
• Turbo engine models tow up to 3,500 pounds.
• i-Activ All-Wheel Drive is engineered to help maximize performance on nearly all road conditions.

2023 Mazda CX-50 AWD Trims, Price, Specs & Features…

The small SUV comes in 10 trim levels: S, Select, Preferred, Preferred Plus, Premium, Premium Plus, Turbo, Turbo Meridian, Turbo Premium and Turbo Premium Plus…

S

• Starting MSRP: $27,550
• A Few Key Features Include:
  • 17-inch alloy wheels
  • LED headlights
  • Roof rails
  • Remote keyless entry and keyless start
  • Partial digital instrument panel
  • 8.8-inch center touchscreen display
  • Eight-speaker audio system
  • Apple CarPlay (w/wireless connectivity) and Android Auto smartphone integration
  • Standard advanced driver features:
    • Frontal collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision).
    • Blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert (warns you if a vehicle is in your blind spot)
    • Lane keeping assist (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centered)
    • Adaptive cruise control (adjusts speed to maintain a constant distance between the vehicle and car in front)
    • Automatic high beams

Select

• Starting MSRP: $28,950
• A Few Key Features Include (Select Trim Adds :
  • Tinted rear passenger windows
  • Dual-zone automatic climate control
  • Keyless entry
  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
  • Overhead storage and lighting
  • Partial simulated leather upholstery
  • 60/40-split folding rear seats
  • Bigger 10.25-inch center touchscreen display
  • Rear USB ports

Preferred

• Starting MSRP: $30,250
• A Few Key Features Include (Preferred Trim Adds):
  • Power liftgate
  • Heated mirrors
  • Windshield wiper de-icer
  • Front and rear center armrests
  • Power-adjustable driver’s seat
  • Heated front seats

Preferred Plus

• Starting MSRP: $32,690
• A Few Key Features Include (Preferred Plus Trim Adds):
  • Panoramic sunroof

Premium

• Starting MSRP: $35,150
• A Few Key Features Include (Premium Trim Adds):
  • Power-adjustable front passenger seat
  • Driver’s seat memory functions
  • Leather upholstery
  • Auto-dimming rearview mirror
  • 12-speaker Bose premium audio

Premium Plus

• Starting MSRP: $37,150
• A Few Key Features Include (Premium Plus Trim Adds):
  • 20-inch wheels
  • Power-folding mirrors
  • Ventilated front seats
  • Head-up display

Turbo

• Starting MSRP: $37,150
• A Few Key Features Include (Turbo Trim Adds):
  • Self-leveling adaptive headlights
  • Paddle shifters

Note: The Turbo trim loses the power-folding mirrors, head-up display and ventilated seats and reverts to the base eight-speaker audio system.

Turbo Meridian Edition

• Starting MSRP: $39,950
• A Few Key Features Include (Meridian Edition Trim Adds):
  • 18-inch alloy wheels
  • All-terrain tires
  • Unique styling treatments and decals

Turbo Premium

• Starting MSRP: $40,300
• A Few Key Features Include (Premium Trim Adds):
  • Power-folding mirrors
  • Ventilated front seats
  • Heated steering wheel
  • 12-speaker Bose premium audio
  • Head-up display

Premium Plus

• Starting MSRP: $42,300
• A Few Key Features Include (Turbo Premium Plus Trim Adds):
  • Heated rear seats
  • Wireless charging pad
  • Navigation system
  • Universal garage door opener
  • Surround-view monitor
  • Front and rear parking sensors
  • Reverse automatic braking
  • Blind-spot intervention
  • Traffic sign reader

Drive Modes

The modes can be switched from normal to sport, off-road or towing.

• Normal:
  • The perfect balance between performance and fuel economy
• Sport mode:
  • This mode enhances vehicle responsiveness for a more dynamic driving experience.
• Off-road mode:
  • This mode helps prevent drive-wheel spinning during off-road driving and improves driving performance.
• Towing mode(SKYACTIV-G 2.5T):
  • Compensates for additional weight for intuitive handling. Powerful low-end torque for towing up to 3,500 pounds. Only compatible with the Genuine Mazda Accessories Trailer Hitch and Harness.

What vehicle inspires you to tap into your creative and adventurous side? Is it the Mazda CX-50? If so, tell us why! Inquiring minds want to know!

For more information regarding the 2023 Mazda CX-50 visit your local dealership or their website.

Have A Happy Healthy, and Remember to Always…Stay Sassy!