2024 Mazda CX-5 vs 2023 Mazda CX-50

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 showcased a design that was both familiar and fresh, with its blunt nose, long hood, and rakish windshield. Its cabin was positioned towards the rear wheels, embodying the subtle allure that Mazda vehicles have been known for over the past decade. However, the CX-50 introduced a rugged aesthetic with its pronounced fender swells, bold lower body cladding, and faux skid plates, which were common among crossovers mimicking SUVs. The oversized air intake and vent designs added a performance edge without being visually jarring. When combined with the standard black grille, mirror caps, and optional 20-inch alloy wheels, the CX-50's exterior elements created an attractive package. Later in the year, the CX-50 Meridian Edition was introduced, featuring exclusive wheels, all-terrain tires, splash guards, and a roof-mounted load platform suitable for a rooftop tent.

In contrast, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its classic design, largely unchanged since its second-generation debut in 2017. This design, reflecting traditional Mazda styling cues, had aged gracefully, maintaining a modern and appealing look. The U.S. version of the new Suna trim, which we tested, featured exclusive Zircon Sand paint and Terracotta leather seats with black artificial suede inserts, complemented by a black headliner. The 2024 model saw improvements in fuel economy for the base engine, the removal of a machined-finish 19-inch wheel design, and the addition of wireless charging and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to several trims. The CX-5 lineup offered a base engine and Turbo models, with the Turbo delivering up to 256 hp on premium gas. In Canada, the CX-5 was available in trims ranging from GS to Signature, with prices starting at $35,476 and reaching $48,276, including destination charges.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 offered two engine options, with the entry-level GS-L and GT trims featuring a 187-horsepower 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine. This engine delivered 186 lb-ft of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels, achieving fuel consumption rates of 9.7 L/100 km in the city, 7.9 on the highway, and 8.9 combined. For those seeking more power, the GT Turbo and Meridian Edition variants boasted a turbocharged version of the same engine, producing between 227 hp and 256 hp, depending on the fuel type. Torque ranged from 310 lb-ft at 2,000 rpm on regular gas to 320 lb-ft at 2,500 rpm on premium fuel. The turbocharged engine provided smooth acceleration across a broad power curve, with minimal turbo lag. The CX-50's Mi-Drive system offered Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing modes, though the differences between them were subtle. The CX-50's ride quality was slightly firmer compared to the 2022 CX-5, aligning with its rugged persona. It handled off-road situations well, though it lacked a downhill assist control system. The CX-50 Turbo's towing capacity was tested with a 3,500-pound trailer, and while it managed flat highways with ease, it could struggle on mountain grades.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Turbo, when filled with premium gas, delivered 256 hp at 5,000 rpm and 320 lb-ft of torque at 2,500 rpm. On regular gas, it provided 227 hp and 310 lb-ft, with torque arriving 500 rpm sooner. The CX-5 Turbo's powertrain was more rewarding with a gradual acceleration approach, allowing revs to build before harnessing the torque. However, its fuel efficiency was less impressive, with a combined rating of 9.8 L/100 km, and our tests showed 10.3 L/100 km. The base engine offered better efficiency at 9.3 L/100 km combined. The CX-5 felt tall and narrow from the driver's seat, offering excellent visibility and confidence in traffic. Recent suspension retuning improved ride quality and handling, with the G-Vectoring Control Plus system enhancing cornering. The CX-5 was quiet on highways and lively in city driving, with a decent 20 cm of ground clearance for off-road trails. It could tow up to 900 kg, suitable for lighter loads.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 GT Turbo was well-equipped for winter with heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated side mirrors and windshield wipers. Ventilated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control added comfort in warmer weather. The front seats were comfortable for long drives, though more side bolstering would have been beneficial. The rear seat offered ample space for adults, with rear air vents and charging ports available on most trims. The rear doors opened wide, facilitating easy entry and exit. Storage space was adequate, though some opportunities for additional storage were missed. The power rear liftgate revealed 889 litres of cargo space, slightly more than the CX-5's 871 litres. The CX-50's maximum cargo capacity was 1,595 litres, slightly less than the CX-5 due to its lower roofline.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 featured standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, with redesigned seats offering comfort and support. The driver's seat had six-way power adjustment, and passengers could manually adjust seat height. Leather upholstery was standard on all but the base trims, with premium Nappa leather available on the Signature trim. Heated rear seats and ventilated front seats were included from the GT grade. The CX-5's interior was snug but comfortable for four adults, with supportive rear seats and soft front seatback material. Rear air vents and a centre armrest with cupholders and a storage tray enhanced passenger comfort. The cabin's design and quality rivalled luxury brands, though the cupholders were somewhat awkward. The CX-5 offered 871 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,680 litres with the seats folded, which was less than some competitors.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 came with a Mazda Connect infotainment system featuring wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and Mazda Connected Services. In Canada, it included a 10.25-inch display. Historically, Mazda Connect lacked touchscreen control, relying on centre console buttons, steering wheel controls, and voice recognition. However, the 2023 CX-50 allowed touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The available 12-speaker Bose Centerpoint surround-sound system provided a satisfying audio experience. An Active Driving Display, or head-up display, projected data within the driver's line of sight, including blind-spot warnings.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 also eschewed touchscreens in favour of traditional controls, though it allowed touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Wireless connectivity for these platforms was available on several trims. The 10.25-inch display was navigated using a centre console knob and buttons, a design once popular with luxury brands. Mazda Connected Services offered remote engine starting and other features, with automatic 911 dialing in case of a collision. The CX-5's 10-speaker Bose sound system, standard on the Suna trim, added to the premium feel of the interior.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, though it fell short of the Top Safety Pick+ due to some headlight configurations and night-time pedestrian collision avoidance results. The NHTSA had not rated the CX-50 at the time of writing. The CX-50 came with a comprehensive package of driving assistance systems, including active blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims offered Traffic Jam Assist, parking sensors, and a surround-view camera. The adaptive cruise control occasionally failed to recognize vehicles cutting in, requiring manual intervention.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 was equipped with a full suite of advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added features like adaptive headlights and a traffic sign recognition system. The CX-5 had previously been a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, though it did not earn the designation in 2024. The NHTSA awarded it five-star ratings, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating.