Overview

A new nameplate is coming to the Mazda lineup next year in the form of the 2023 CX-50 SUV, which will take on compact crossover rivals such as the Hyundai Tucson, the Nissan Rogue, and the Toyota RAV4. The CX-50 will be available with either a naturally-aspirated 187-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder or a turbocharged version of that engine making 250 horsepower. All models will come with a six-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. A hybrid model is also in the works and it will use a powertrain from Toyota. The CX-50 shares a platform with the subcompact CX-30 crossover and the Mazda 3 compact car, so we expect athletic handling. Although it’s barely larger than the existing CX-5 SUV, the CX-50 wears more rugged styling elements, which is a departure from Mazda’s more refined designs elsewhere in the lineup.

What’s New for 2022?

The CX-50 is expected to go on sale sometime in mid-2022 as a 2023 model. Mazda says that it will be sold alongside the slightly smaller CX-5, but we think the 5 will eventually be phased out leaving the 50 as the brand’s compact SUV entrant.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

All models will come with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder but the one to get will be the more powerful turbocharged variant offering 250 horsepower. The base non-turbo offering will make just 186 hp. A six-speed automatic is standard, as is all-wheel drive, and Mazda will no doubt be baking-in crisp handling to the CX-50 so that it carries on the company’s tradition of offering affordable, fun-to-drive vehicles. A hybrid model will join the lineup later on with a powertrain sourced from Toyota. We expect it to be the one found in the RAV4 Hybrid, which is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with two electric motors good for a combined 219 horsepower. When we get a chance to test-drive the CX-50 we’ll update this story with driving impressions and test results.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Like the CX-5 and CX-30 crossovers, the CX-50 will offer space for five passengers in two rows of seats. Inside, large square dashboard vents give the 50 a slightly more truckish look than the smaller CX-30, but we can see a familiar 8.8-inch infotainment display sprouting from the dashboard. When Mazda releases more information about the CX-50’s interior and infotainment features, we’ll update this story with details.

As more information becomes available, we’ll update this story with more details about:

•  Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
•  Infotainment and Connectivity
•  Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
•  Warranty and Maintenance Coverage