AutoNsider | 2024 Mazda CX-50 Review: Bridging Adventure with Everyday Comfort

As our family embarked on yet another road trip, this time from Atlanta to Orlando for a volleyball tournament, the 2024 Mazda CX-50 Turbo Premium Plus was our trusted companion. Laden with luggage and three passengers aboard, including myself, the journey encompassed approximately 7 hours each way. Despite a disappointing tournament outcome, our experience with the CX-50 blended admiration and constructive critique.

Driving Experience: The CX-50, the first of its kind, embodies Mazda's commitment to superior driving dynamics and elegant design. Developed with the North American market in mind, it's engineered to cater to the active lifestyles prevalent in the region. The CX-50 encourages drivers to explore nature without sacrificing the premium quality and outstanding on-road performance synonymous with Mazda.

The CX-50 exhibited commendable performance during our journey, partly thanks to its standard i-Activ All-Wheel Drive (AWD) technology. Likewise, during my press drive in California in 2022, the CX-50 effortlessly navigated various terrains, instilling confidence both on and off-road. Equipped with Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) , the CX-50 adapts seamlessly to diverse driving conditions, ensuring a natural driving experience. While the Skyactiv-G 2.5 engine provided ample power, future electrified powertrains, including hybrid options, promise even greater efficiency and environmental friendliness. It's worth noting that the CX-50 towed a 3500 lb. trailer during the 2022 press trip with little fanfare.

Available Packages: The CX-50 offers an array of packages designed to cater to diverse preferences and needs, ensuring that every driver finds their ideal configuration. With two efficient powertrain choices and ten distinct packages, Mazda provides ample options for customization, allowing drivers to tailor their CX-50 to their specific requirements.
1. CX-50 2.5 S Package: Ideal for those seeking a well-equipped entry-level option, the CX-50 2.5 S Package boasts a comprehensive suite of standard features. Highlights include an 8.8-inch full-color center console display, wireless Apple CarPlayTM and Android AutoTM integration, and advanced safety technologies such as Blind Spot Monitoring and Lane Departure Warning System.
2. CX-50 2.5 S Select Package: Building upon the foundation of the 2.5 S Package, the Select Package enhances comfort and convenience with features like dual-zone automatic climate control, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a 10.25-inch color center display. Additionally, tinted privacy glass and black metallic alloy wheels elevate the exterior aesthetics.
3. CX-50 2.5 S Preferred Package: For added luxury and convenience, the Preferred Package includes heated side-view mirrors, a power rear liftgate, and heated front seats. With enhancements to both comfort and functionality, this package ensures an elevated driving experience.
4. CX-50 2.5 S Preferred Plus Package: Taking comfort to the next level, the Preferred Plus Package introduces Mazda's first-ever power-sliding panoramic moonroof, providing occupants with an immersive connection to nature. This package enhances the CX-50's appeal with a seamless blend of luxury and adventure.
5. CX-50 2.5 S Premium Package: Elevating the interior ambiance, the Premium Package features a Bose® 12-speaker premium audio system, SiriusXM satellite radio, and leather seating surfaces. Combined with advanced safety features and technological enhancements, this package offers a truly premium driving experience.
6. CX-50 2.5 S Premium Plus Package: Distinguished by its visual enhancements, it boasts 20-inch aluminum alloy wheels and automatic power-folding side-view mirrors. Inside, ventilated front seats and a full-color Active Driving Display further elevate comfort and convenience.
7. CX-50 2.5 Turbo Package: The Turbo Package introduces Mazda's Skyactiv-G 2.5L turbocharged engine paired with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters for those seeking heightened performance. With increased towing capacity and exclusive design elements, this package caters to drivers with a penchant for adventure.
8. CX-50 2.5 Turbo Premium Package: Building upon the Turbo Package, the Premium Package enhances interior comfort with features like a Bose® premium audio system and heated steering wheel. With advanced technological features, this package ensures an immersive driving experience for all occupants.
9. CX-50 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus Package: The Premium Plus Package tops off the CX-50 lineup with additional luxury amenities, including heated rear seats, a wireless phone charger, and a Mazda Navigation System. With many advanced features, this package embodies the pinnacle of comfort and convenience.
10. CX-50 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition: Designed for outdoor enthusiasts, the Meridian Edition combines rugged capability with exclusive design elements. This package features all-terrain tires, distinctive hood graphics, and outdoor-specific accessories, allowing drivers to venture into nature confidently with their CX-50.

Design and Comfort: The CX-50's design language is a harmonious fusion of Mazda's iconic Kodo design philosophy with rugged outdoor aesthetics. Its sleek silhouette and wide stance exude a sense of adventure, complemented by functional elements tailored for outdoor enthusiasts. Inside, the cabin boasts meticulous craftsmanship and a driver-centric layout. The blend of seating materials and modern, technical details create an inviting ambiance suitable for seasoned adventurers and newcomers to active lifestyles.

A standout feature of the CX-50 is its panoramic moonroof, a first for Mazda. It enhances the connection between occupants and nature. New color options, such as Zircon Sand exterior paint and terracotta interior, further elevate the CX-50's visual appeal, allowing drivers to express their individuality.

Practicality and Convenience: While the CX-50 excels in many aspects, some areas warrant improvement. Although compensated by a conveniently placed wireless phone charger, the lack of USB-C fast charging outlets underscores the need for technological advancements. Additionally, while the cargo space is thoughtfully designed to accommodate outdoor equipment, firmer seats may pose a comfort issue for some passengers, albeit subjective.

In summary, the 2024 Mazda CX-50 Turbo Premium Plus emerges as a compelling option for small families and individuals seeking a versatile and manageable SUV/Crossover. Its blend of elegant design, superior driving dynamics, and practicality make it a formidable contender in the competitive automotive landscape. It offers a diverse range of packages, each meticulously crafted to enhance the driving experience. Whether prioritizing luxury, performance, or adventure, Mazda ensures that every driver finds their perfect match with the CX-50. While there's room for refinement in certain areas, the CX-50's overall package is poised to captivate drivers looking to bridge the gap between adventure and everyday comfort. As my initial positive impressions from the press trip were reaffirmed during our journey, I wholeheartedly recommend the CX-50 to anyone considering a compact SUV with a penchant for exploration.