2023 Mazda CX-50 Quick Overview
The 2023 Mazda CX-50 is the more rough-and-tumble version of the CX-5. Although new to the lineup and designed for off-road use, the compact CX-50 still carries Mazda’s manufacturing hallmarks, like Kodo design language, Skyactiv-G powertrains, and standard i-Activ all-wheel drive. With the CX-50, there is no shortage of ways to live a life beyond the pavement, as the vehicle is available in 10 different packages.
Below, we will briefly cover each package for the 2023 Mazda CX-50, along with the starting MSRP for each one. The MSRP figures include the $1,225 destination charge.
2023 Mazda CX-50: Engine & Powertrain
The 2023 Mazda CX-50 will have one of two engines, depending on the trim level (or package).
The first is a Skyactiv-G 2.5L naturally aspirated four-cylinder with 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. The second is a turbo Skyactiv-G 2.5L four-cylinder with 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft. of torque on 93 octane gas (by contrast, running regular unleaded returns 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft. of torque). Both engines are paired to a six-speed automatic.
The standard i-Activ All-Wheel Drive system is complimented by Mazda Intelligent Drive Select, also known as MI-Drive for short. The various drive modes assist the CX-50 with everything from heavy snow to light towing. When properly equipped with the turbo engine, the CX-50 has a max towing capacity of 3,500 lbs. (2,000 lbs. otherwise).
2.5 S Package
The entry-level S is standard with 17-inch gray metallic alloy wheels, LED headlights, rear roof spoiler, power side-view mirrors with LED turn signal indicators, and dual exhaust tips.
On the inside, the S is complete with an 8.8-inch center console display, an eight-speaker audio system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Mazda Connect Infotainment system, two USB ports, and a push-button start.
The naturally-aspirated engine is exclusive to the S, although the MI-Drive system on the S includes a Sport and Off-Road mode.
Starting MSRP: $28,025
2.5 S Select Package
The Select trim level adds a leather-wrapped shifter and steering wheel, a 10.25-inch center display, dual-zone automatic climate control, LED interior lighting, rear passenger vents, two rear USB inputs, and a 40/60 split-folding rear seat. The 2.5 S Select also comes standard with black metallic 17-inch alloy wheels and tinted privacy glass.
Starting MSRP: $29,425
2.5 S Preferred Package
The Preferred is standard with heated side-view mirrors and windshield wipers, a front and rear center armrest with storage, a power rear liftgate with programmable height adjustment, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support, and heated front seats.
Starting MSRP: $30,725
2.5 S Preferred Plus Package
The Preferred trim level builds on the previous two and adds a power-sliding panoramic moonroof. If you can believe it, this is the first time Mazda has included a power-sliding panoramic moonroof on one of its vehicles. According to Mazda, the one-touch open and close feature helps drivers and passengers feel more connected with nature.
Starting MSRP: $33,165
Premium takes things up a notch with a Bose 12-speaker audio system, SiriusXM satellite radio, auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink, and a six-way power-adjustable front passenger seat. The Premium is standard with black leather seating surfaces or a new terracotta color with orange stitching.
Starting MSRP: $35,225
The 2.5 S Premium Plus is standard with 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and automatic power-folding side-view mirrors. Inside, the Premium Plus adds ventilated front seats and a heads-up display.
Starting MSRP: $37,625
2.5 Turbo Package
As the name suggests, all Turbo variants of the CX-50 are standard with the Skyactiv-G 2.5L turbo engine. All CX-50 turbos receive a Towing mode via the MI-Drive system in addition to Sport and Off-Road modes. The more potent engine and the Towing mode increase the CX-50’s max towing capacity to 3,500 lbs.
Exterior design elements include Turbo badging, larger exhaust pipes, LED taillights, and an Adaptive LED front lighting system with LED auto-leveling headlights.
Starting MSRP: $37,625
Like the 2.5 S Premium, the 2.5 Turbo Premium adds the Bose 12-speaker audio system, SiriusXM satellite radio, heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, and a heads-up display.
Starting MSRP: $40,775
This top trim level includes all standard features for the CX-50 but adds a frameless, auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink, heated rear seats, wireless phone charger in the center console, navigation, and a heads-up display with traffic sign recognition.
Starting MSRP: $42,775
2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition
The Meridian Edition includes 18-inch alloy wheels with all-terrain tires, side rocker garnish and headlight garnish, distinctive hood graphics, and a host of outdoor-specific accessories. Mazda said the Meridian Edition would be available later in 2022, with pricing being announced closer to that time.
2023 Mazda CX-50 Safety Features
Regardless of trim level, every 2023 Mazda CX-50 is standard with Advanced Smart City Brake Support with pedestrian detection, Blind Spot Monitoring, Driver Attention Alert, Lane Departure Warning System, Lane Keep Assist, and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.
Mazda Factory Warranty
Every new Mazda has a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Depending on how much you drive, an extended warranty may benefit you. Before you decide, see this helpful guide to Mazda extended warranties.
Photos & Source: Mazda North American Operations.