When I reviewed the CX-50 last year, I applauded this approach to the compact crossover segment in the CX-50’s debut. The 2024 model sees only a few slight changes to carry it forward. I like the CX-5 as a compact family hauler, but the CX-50’s higher stance and more rugged look are a real draw.
A key change to the CX-50 for 2024 is the simplification of the trim level lineup. This makes shopping for one a little easier. Choices are boiled down to eight trim levels, which seems like a lot, but they’re really in two parts. You’ll either look at the standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (187 horsepower) or the Turbo models with their 227-horsepower upgrade. This means that there are really just four trim points: Select, Preferred, Premium, and Premium Plus for the standard engine and Turbo, Turbo Meridian, Turbo Premium, and Turbo Premium Plus for the upgraded turbocharged engine.
All models of the 2024 CX-50, whatever trim or engine is chosen, come with at least a 10.25-inch infotainment display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, split-fold rear seating, and a full suite of advanced safety systems and driver’s aids like adaptive cruise control and lane departure mitigation.
Going with the standard engine means getting a 187-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission with all-wheel drive. Jumping to a Turbo model upgrades the engine to 227 horsepower on regular octane fuel and 256 HP on 93 octane premium. Transmission and AWD remain.
The two engines are both good matches for the CX-50. There’s more punch to the Turbo models, obviously, but the standard engine isn’t a slacker. Your driving preference will be the ultimate decider as fuel economy isn’t much different between the choices either. There’s about 2 MPG difference between the non-turbo and the Turbo (in the non-turbo’s favor). But in the real world, that spread is likely to be smaller for most drivers unless you’re at altitude or drive with a lead foot.
A sticking point for some buyers might be the 2024 CX-50’s price tag. It has a starting price of $31,720 plus delivery for the Select and $39,420 for the Turbo. The CX-5 is about $1,000 cheaper and a Hyundai Tucson starts at $28,875 for comparison. So the CX-50 is a bit more expensive. But comparatively, the CX-50 has a more rugged, off-road-ready appearance and packaging.
After driving most of these options, the more expensive 2024 Mazda CX-50 doesn’t feel like a ripoff. It has a much better interior than most of its competition and it’s a more engaging drive as well. Mazda’s “Zoom-Zoom” is fully intact here. So the question really comes down to what one wants out of a compact SUV.
In the end, the 2024 CX-50 is easy to live with and definitely has its share of appeal. For those who want a more conventional, but still engaging option, the CX-5 is a good choice. Here’s to hoping Mazda keeps both of these nameplates alive going forward.
This review originally published on DriveModeShow.com.
