2022 Mazda CX-5 vs 2023 Mazda CX-50

In 2022, the Mazda CX-5 emerged with subtle yet refined exterior updates. It showcased new LED headlights and taillights which provided a distinctive illumination. Whether this new lighting addressed the prevalent issue of CX-5 owners neglecting to use their regular lights remained unknown. Mazda also introduced new bumpers, a revised grille, a redesigned rear liftgate, and fresh alloy wheel designs. The top-line Signature trim stood out with a body-color lower exterior trim, highlighting Mazda’s aspirations for a premium brand image. Inside the CX-5, the Signature trim continued to exude luxury with Nappa leather upholstery, real wood trim, and polished metallic accents. Mazda replaced the old trim levels with a more convoluted lineup, offering the CX-5 in various trims under the 2.5 S and 2.5 Turbo models. Meanwhile, the 2023 Mazda CX-50’s design encapsulated a blend of ruggedness and sophistication. Known for the brand’s subtle seductiveness, the CX-50 sported a blunt nose, long hood, rakish windshield, and a cabin positioned further back. However, it embraced rugged elements with its blistered fender swells, extensive lower body cladding, and faux skid plates. It featured oversized air intakes and vent designs, creating a harmonious yet bold aesthetic. The CX-50 also offered a forthcoming Meridian Edition with exclusive wheels, all-terrain tires, splash guards, and a roof-mounted load platform. The standard black grille, mirror caps, and available 20-inch wheels contributed to the vehicle’s overall appeal. Inside, the cabin exhibited a driver-focused design with black leather, caramel-colored stitching, and a thoughtful combination of analog and digital gauges.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. It featured a revised six-speed automatic transmission for enhanced responsiveness and standard all-wheel drive. According to the EPA, this powertrain offered a fuel economy of 26 mpg in combined driving. The turbocharged 2.5 Turbo version delivered 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium gas, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft with regular gas. It also featured the revised six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD, though its fuel economy was slightly lower at 24 mpg combined. The 2.5 Turbo trims included Mazda’s new Mi-Drive Select with Normal, Sport, and Off-Road settings, contributing to the vehicle’s quieter, smoother, and sportier ride. The improved riding dynamics, enhanced structural rigidity, and reworked suspension made the 2022 CX-5 a legitimate alternative to entry-level luxury SUVs. On the other hand, the 2023 Mazda CX-50’s base 2.5 S model offered a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, mated to the same six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. Mazda predicted 27 mpg in combined driving for this engine. The 2.5 Turbo variant, producing up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium gas, showcased impressive smooth acceleration and a higher towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. It included Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing modes, designed to provide consistent vehicle behavior across different conditions. Despite the slight firmness of the ride, the CX-50 delivered a driving experience likened to a modern Mazda6 wagon with a Subaru Outback treatment. It also offered an 8.6-inch ground clearance comparable to Subaru models, though it lacked a downhill assist control system.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints about its ride and front seats by introducing new, comfortable furnishings. The improved seats offered better coddling and support, with a height-adjustable front passenger seat available from most trims. The test vehicle’s features included dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel, ensuring comfort in any weather. However, the back seat space remained snug, though it offered heated outboard cushions and air conditioning vents. The Mazda Connect infotainment system was a source of frustration due to its lack of a touchscreen and natural voice recognition. Storage space was adequate, with small bins and trays. Cargo space provided up to 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, competitive against entry-level luxury but lacking compared to mainstream compact crossovers. Conversely, the 2023 Mazda CX-50 featured power-adjustable heated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated components specified for cold conditions. The ventilated front seats and effective dual-zone climate control were advantageous during warmer days. The driver and front passenger seats provided lasting comfort, while the rear seat offered generous room for adults, enhanced by rear air vents and charging ports. The rear doors opened to a near 90-degree angle, facilitating easier entry and exit. While storage space was merely adequate, key features included a more conveniently placed smartphone charger. The CX-50 increased cargo space to 31.4 cubic feet and had a slightly lower maximum capacity of 56.3 cubic feet due to its lower roofline. The design included helpful side bins and hooks for securing items, though it was narrower between the wheel wells.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained the Mazda Connect infotainment system with a non-touchscreen 10.25-inch display. The system relied on console and steering wheel controls, lacking natural voice recognition. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, navigation and connectivity relied heavily on smartphone integration. The setup did include a complimentary three-year trial of Mazda Connected Services, excluding limited WiFi access. The 10-speaker Bose sound system available from the 2.5 S Premium trim received mixed reviews but was generally satisfactory. For the 2023 Mazda CX-50, each model featured Mazda Connect with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The base 2.5 S trim had an 8.8-inch display, while higher trims offered a larger 10.25-inch display. The infotainment retained Mazda’s non-touchscreen philosophy except for the touchscreen control of CarPlay and Android Auto. The user interface still relied on center console buttons, steering wheel controls, and a basic voice recognition system. Despite these limitations, the CX-50 included a practical 12-speaker Bose Centerpoint surround-sound system. Additionally, it offered an Active Driving Display, providing essential information projected within the driver’s line of sight, including blind-spot warnings.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 came with a comprehensive i-Activsense safety package, featuring adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert as standard. Higher trims included adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera, parking sensors, automatic rear braking, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, reinforcing its strong safety credentials. The 2023 Mazda CX-50, while yet to be rated by the IIHS at the time of review, was expected to perform well based on Mazda’s track record. It also included a generous standard package of driving assistance systems. The exclusive features available on the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus included Traffic Jam Assist, active blind-spot monitoring, front and rear parking sensors with reverse automatic braking, and a surround-view camera system. Despite the occasional failure of adaptive cruise control in recognizing vehicles cutting in, the system typically worked effectively.