2024 Mazda CX-5 vs 2023 Mazda CX-50

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 showcased a design that was both familiar and fresh. Its styling, characterized by a blunt nose, long hood, and rakish windshield, maintained the subtle seductiveness typical of Mazda's vehicles over the past decade. However, the CX-50 introduced a rugged aesthetic with its blistered fender swells, bold lower body cladding, and faux skid plates. These elements, combined with oversized air intakes and vent designs, created a performance-oriented look that was visually appealing. The CX-50's standard black grille and mirror caps, along with available 20-inch wheels, enhanced its exterior allure. Later in the model year, the CX-50 Meridian Edition was set to join the lineup, featuring exclusive wheels, all-terrain tires, splash guards, and a roof-mounted load platform.

In contrast, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its classic design, which had aged gracefully since the second-generation model's debut in 2017. The CX-5 continued to look modern and appealing, with minor updates for 2024. Our test vehicle, the new-for-2024 Carbon Turbo trim, sported Zircon Sand paint and exclusive Terracotta leather seats. The CX-5's gloss-black exterior detailing complemented the new color options, including Platinum Quartz and premium Rhodium White. Mazda improved the fuel economy of the base engine, eliminated a previous wheel design, and added wireless charging and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to several trims. The CX-5's design and quality elevated it above many mass-market rivals, offering an upscale feel at a mainstream price.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 offered two engine options. The 2.5 S model featured a 187-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 186 lb-ft of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission. Mazda estimated a combined fuel economy of 27 mpg for this version. For those seeking more power, the 2.5 Turbo variant provided between 227 hp and 256 hp, depending on the fuel type, with torque ranging from 310 lb-ft to 320 lb-ft. The turbocharged engine offered smooth acceleration and a broad power curve, with minimal turbo lag. The CX-50's ride quality was slightly firmer than the CX-5, aligning with its rugged persona. It boasted up to 8.6 inches of ground clearance, making it capable of light off-roading, though it lacked a downhill assist control system.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo delivered 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium gas, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular gas. The powertrain was more rewarding with a gradual acceleration approach, allowing the torque to build. However, its fuel efficiency was unimpressive, with an EPA rating of 24 mpg combined, and our observed 22.9 mpg. The CX-5 felt tall and narrow from the driver's seat, offering excellent visibility and maneuverability. Mazda's re-tuned suspension and standard all-wheel drive provided a smooth ride and responsive handling. The CX-5's 7.9 inches of ground clearance allowed it to tackle well-traveled trails, and it could tow up to 2,000 pounds.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50's interior was well-equipped for cold climates, with heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated side mirrors. Ventilated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control kept the cabin comfortable. The front seats were comfortable for long drives, though they could use more side bolstering. The back seat offered ample space for adults, with rear air vents and charging ports. The CX-50 provided 31.4 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 56.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. However, storage space was limited, with missed opportunities for additional bins and shelves.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 featured standard heated front seats, redesigned for comfort and support. The driver's seat offered six-way power adjustment, while passengers could manually adjust seat height. Leather upholstery was standard on most trims, with Nappa leather on the top-tier 2.5 Turbo Signature. The CX-5's interior was snug but comfortable for four adults, with supportive rear seats and soft front seatback material. The cabin's design and quality rivaled luxury brands, with good storage space despite awkward cupholders. The CX-5 provided 30 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 came with a Mazda Connect infotainment system, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and Mazda Connected Services. The base model had an 8.8-inch display, while higher trims offered a 10.25-inch display. Mazda Connect lacked touchscreen control, relying on center console buttons, steering wheel controls, and voice recognition. However, the CX-50 allowed touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The available 12-speaker Bose sound system delivered a satisfying audio experience, and the Active Driving Display provided valuable information within the driver's line of sight.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 also featured a Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display. While Mazda preferred traditional switchgear, the CX-5 allowed touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system's interface was navigated using a center console knob and surrounding buttons. Mazda Connected Services offered remote engine starting, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and more. The CX-5's 10-speaker Bose sound system, standard in the Carbon Turbo, added to the SUV's premium interior.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 was expected to perform well in safety tests, though the IIHS had not yet rated it. It came with a comprehensive package of driving assistance systems, with additional features available on the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus trim. These included Traffic Jam Assist, active blind-spot monitoring, front and rear parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. The driving assistance systems generally worked well, though the adaptive cruise control occasionally failed to recognize slower vehicles cutting in.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 was equipped with advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. Higher trims offered adaptive headlights, traffic sign recognition, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 2.5 Turbo Signature included a driver monitoring system, surround-view camera, and parking sensors. The standard ADAS performed well, with excellent lane departure and lane-keeping systems. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, though it did not earn a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS in 2024.