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The new 2023 Mazda CX-50 understands that it is best not to be confused with success and will not replace the popular CX-5 in the automaker’s growing lineup of utility vehicles.
On the contrary, the CX-50 complements the CX-5, providing automakers with a new compact CUV designed and adjusted for a more adventurous lifestyle.
The '23 CX-50 was built at a new Mazda-Toyota joint venture assembly plant in Huntsville, Alabama, along with other products from the plant. '22 Toyota Corolla Cross is manufactured on a separate assembly line.
In fact, apart from the manufacturing location, the two CUVs have nothing in common. Instead, Mazda built the CX-50 on the same platform below the Mazda3 and CX-30, increasing the length and width to create a larger vehicle that is roughly the same size as the CX-5.
Although Mazda will not reveal the final mechanical and dimensional specifications until the CUV sales date in the spring of 2022, the automaker confirmed that the '23 CX-50 will provide a normally aspirated and turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with 6-cylinders. engine. Automatic transmission and standard i-Activ all-wheel drive. According to Dave Coleman, vehicle dynamics manager of Mazda's North American operations department, the CX-50 also retains road driving dynamics, making the company's products fun to drive.
However, because Mazda hopes that CX-50 can attract more outdoor-oriented customers, it must improve off-road capabilities to make CUV credible.
Coleman said that the CX-50 offers greater ground clearance, better approach and departure angles, and greater traction than similarly sized CX-5. In addition, in order to better support CUV’s mission, all-terrain tires are optional, and new off-road and towing driving modes debuted in the CX-50 as the automaker’s so-called Mazda Smart Drive (Mi-Drive) Select Part.
Off-road mode solves the towing situation when driving on muddy and gravel roads, climbing hills and driving on uneven terrain.
Despite this, the clearance is only slightly increased compared to the CX-5, and there is no standard or usable bottom skid plate. Mazda admits that the CX-50 is most suitable for reachable rather than remote destinations. "You won't go to the Rubicon Trail," Coleman said when introducing the CX-50.
Select the traction mode. The CX-50's standard G vector control technology takes into account the tongue weight of the trailer. Although the front tires of the CUV are not weighted, it still ensures a natural steering feel and response.
This mode also adjusts the AWD system to reduce the extra movement that the trailer usually produces in the rear of the vehicle. Other Mi-Drive modes include normal and sports, which Coleman said is the same as you will find in other Mazdas.
The exterior design reflects the current overlanding trend. The '23 CX-50 has a long hood, low roof, wide wheelbase, underbody cladding and flared fenders. It is more boxy than other Mazda utility vehicles and looks ready for adventure .
The automaker plans to provide CX-50 with numerous accessories, including matte black hood decals and various roof racks to further enhance the credibility of CUV's active lifestyle.
To illustrate the practicality of the CX-50, Mazda said that the open rear door and low roofline make it easier to tie bicycles, surfboards and kayaks to the car. The company did not disclose the static and dynamic load ratings of the roof rails, but said they will bear enough weight to support a three-person roof tent and its occupants.
Internally, the CX-50 follows the current Mazda design principles, combining simple control layout with high-quality materials to create a clean, modern and high-end look and feel. With vertical vents fixed at both ends of the simple instrument panel, the CX-50 has the same driver-centric cockpit and traditional circular instrumentation as other Mazda models.
CX-50 uses a new leather color called Terracotta for the first time. CUV provides more passenger space than CX-30, especially in the back seat.
All-weather foot pads can be used to protect carpets, but unlike some competitors, Mazda does not plan to provide weather-resistant materials for the CX-50. Coleman explained that this is not a "hose" type vehicle.
Coleman said that the CX-50's Mazda Connect infotainment and i-ActiveSense driver assistance technology will reflect the technology available in the smaller CX-30. 10.25 inches. (26 cm) The display is located on the top of the CX-50 dashboard, it is not touch-sensitive.
Instead, users rely on physical controls on the center console and steering wheel to operate the system and voice commands.
Production of the '23 Mazda CX-50 will begin in January 2022, and Mazda will mainly sell CUVs in the United States and Canada. Prices will be announced when they arrive at the dealer's showroom in the spring.
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