The Mazda CX-50 arrives to give SUV fans a more rugged look.
The Mazda CX-5 has undoubtedly been the brand’s biggest success since its parting ways with Ford Motor Company. The 2nd generation is still one of the most striking everyday SUVs on the road today despite being nearly 4 years old. However, in the North American market, some customers have felt that Mazda’s SUV offerings have been a touch too delicate with AWD only as an option and soft curves dominating its looks.
That’s why the company has now revealed another SUV in the segment called the CX-50. It’s also noteworthy in the US, where it will become the first vehicle from the company to be built at the new Mazda Toyota Manufacturing plant in Huntsville, Alabama.
Mazda CX-50 Key Mechanicals
The CX-50 is not built on the highly anticipated longitudinal chassis, nor does it get the upcoming inline-6 petrol engines from Mazda. Instead, it still comes with a transversely-mounted 2.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine – either the SKYACTIV-G 2.5L naturally-aspirated or turbocharged unit.
Power will be sent through a 6-speed automatic transmission. As standard, the Mazda CX-50 comes with an all-wheel-drive driveline, doubling down on its rugged looks and higher standard power output.
Besides getting the latest i-Activ All-Wheel Drive, it also has Mazda Intelligent Drive Select, or Mi-Drive. Mi-Drive allows users to select new drive modes using the Mi-Drive switch. This gives the Mazda CX-50 the ability to take on a variety of terrains.
Mazda also announced that the CX-50 will be available with electrified powertrains in the near future, including a traditional hybrid model.
Mazda CX-50 Styling
The Mazda CX-50 features an all-new design with some cues coming from the CX-30 compact crossover. This latest iteration of Kodo design has a more capable presence with a sleek, long silhouette and wide stance. It retains the dynamic looks of Mazda SUVs, but has more angular lines and more plastic body cladding for a design that looks more rugged.
It also gets high strength roof rails, reinforced B-pillars and door jambs to allow for equipment to be mounted to the roof. The vehicle’s height and width are ideal for loading common outdoor equipment. Mazda has also given the CX-50 new colours, such as Zircon Sand.
Inside, the Mazda CX-50 features a functional and beautiful interior with familiar design cues and digital elements. What’s new is the terracotta interior, which provides a little pop of colour on the upholstery, stitching and animations. The seats are covered in a blend of materials inspired by technical, modern outdoor gear. New for Mazda is the new panoramic moonroof.
