2023 Mazda CX-5 vs 2024 Mazda CX-50

The 2023 Mazda CX-5, despite its age, remained a strong contender in the compact crossover SUV market. It was praised for its stylish design and high-quality materials, giving it the feel of a small luxury SUV. The available turbocharged engine provided impressive power, and the model boasted a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. However, its small back seat, cramped cargo area, and frustrating infotainment system were potential drawbacks. Mazda's decision to eventually phase out the CX-5 was not due to its performance but rather a strategic move to introduce the redesigned and renamed CX-50. This transition aimed to smoothly guide loyal CX-5 customers to the new model, much like Infiniti's past rebranding efforts.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 was introduced as a more rugged counterpart to the CX-5, with a fresher design and larger dimensions. It was 3.5 cm lower, 7.6 cm wider, and nearly 15 cm longer than the CX-5, with an 11.7 cm wheelbase stretch. The CX-50's design emphasized broad-shouldered proportions with square wheel arches and fake air vents. Available in three trim levels in Canada—GS-L, GT, and Meridian Edition—the CX-50 offered a more active-lifestyle image, especially in the Meridian Edition with its all-terrain tires and rugged exterior features. However, the CX-50's interior, while pleasing, did not fully match Mazda's upscale aspirations, with some features like manually adjustable passenger seats reminding buyers of Mazda's traditional market positioning.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: a standard 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged version delivering 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The turbo engine's performance was enhanced by structural and suspension updates, making the CX-5 feel more like an entry-level luxury vehicle. The CX-5 excelled on twisting roads, offering a firm, connected ride with responsive steering and brakes. However, the turbocharged engine's fuel economy fell short of expectations during testing, returning 11.0 L/100 km in combined driving.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 shared its powertrains with the CX-5, featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with turbocharging on higher trims. The base engine produced 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, while the turbo version offered 256 hp and 320 lb-ft on premium fuel. The CX-50's driving experience differed from the CX-5, feeling more like other models in its segment. The Meridian Edition's all-terrain tires added noise and reduced grip, impacting handling. The CX-50 was a good daily driver but lacked the engaging driving dynamics of the CX-5.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 received updates for improved front seat comfort and support. It offered a range of features, including power-adjustable seats, heated and ventilated seats, and premium Nappa leather upholstery in higher trims. However, the CX-5's interior space was limited, with small storage areas, cramped rear seats, and less cargo space compared to rivals. It provided 871 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,680 litres with them folded.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 had similar passenger space to the CX-5, with slightly less headroom and more legroom. It offered 889 litres of cargo space with the rear seats in place and 1,595 litres with them folded. While the CX-50 had more cargo space with the second row up, it trailed competitors in overall cargo capacity. The Meridian Edition's rugged looks were not matched by added functionality, and the cargo area was not ideal for bulky items. The interior layout was sensible, with adequate storage space and a rotary infotainment controller.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system featured a 10.25-inch display with sophisticated graphics but was frustrating to use. The lack of a helpful voice recognition system and awkward physical controls made it distracting. The system required memorization and focus, detracting from the driving experience. Despite these issues, Mazda Connect offered features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose audio system.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 also had a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, controlled by a rotary controller and buttons. While it offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the system felt dated with basic functions and plain graphics. The rotary controller provided physical feedback, making it easier to use without looking away from the road. Higher trims included wireless phone charging and a Bose audio system.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with standard i-Activsense driver assistance tech. Features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The CX-5 received a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick ranking from the IIHS. However, a warning message for nighttime driving without headlights was needed.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 was named a 2023 Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention tech. It offered standard driver-assist features like automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist. Optional features included a 360-degree camera system and traffic-jam assist. NHTSA ratings were incomplete, but the CX-50 received a five-star frontal crash-test rating.