2024 Mazda CX-50 vs 2024 Chevrolet Suburban

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 presented itself as a more rugged alternative to the CX-5, with significant dimensional differences. It was 3.5 centimetres lower, 7.6 cm wider, and nearly 15 cm longer than the CX-5, with an 11.7 cm wheelbase stretch. The design emphasized broad-shouldered proportions with square wheel arches and fake air vents. The Meridian Edition, which was tested, further enhanced the active-lifestyle image with all-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels, a black hood graphic, and pronounced rocker-panel trim. The interior was pleasing, with a BMW-like infotainment screen and impressive material quality for a non-luxury brand. However, the CX-50 didn’t fully meet Mazda’s upscale aspirations, as evidenced by the standard half-leatherette seats and manually adjustable passenger seat in the base model.

In contrast, the 2024 Chevrolet Suburban, with its 90-year legacy, was a familiar sight on the roads. Its massive dimensions, stretching 5,733 millimetres in length and 1,923 millimetres in height, made it a vehicle not suited for everyone, especially in urban areas. However, for those needing ample cargo and passenger space, the Suburban was a top choice. Available in six trims, it offered a range of features, from automatic windshield wipers to LED headlights. The High Country trim, which was tested, included leather upholstery and a heated steering wheel. Despite its size, the Suburban’s interior felt somewhat pedestrian, with supportive but not overly comfortable seats for long trips.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 was equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, with turbocharging available on higher trims. The base engine produced 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, while the turbo variant offered 256 hp and 320 lb-ft on 93-octane gasoline. All models came with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, featuring Normal, Sport, and Off-road driving modes. Turbo models also included a Towing mode, increasing towing capacity to 1,587 kilograms. The CX-50 shared powertrains with the CX-5 but offered a different driving experience, being more of a daily driver than a sporty option. The Meridian Edition’s all-terrain tires added noise and limited grip, making it less ideal for regular driving.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban offered three engine options: two V8s and a straight-six diesel. The standard 5.3-litre V8 produced 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, with a towing capacity of up to 3,765 kilograms. The 6.2-litre V8, available on higher trims, delivered 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. The Duramax 3.0-litre turbodiesel, with 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, provided better fuel economy and was available at no extra cost on the High Country trim. The Suburban’s 10-speed automatic transmission was well-tuned, and the vehicle’s size was manageable, thanks to its steering and brakes. The height-adjustable air suspension handled rough roads well, although the Suburban’s weight meant some body roll was inevitable.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 offered similar passenger space to the CX-5, with slightly less headroom but more legroom. It provided 889 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,595 litres with them folded. While it trailed competitors in cargo space, the power liftgate improved access. The interior layout was sensible, with a substantial shifter and rotary infotainment controller on the centre console.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban excelled in cargo space, offering 1,175 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,656 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 4,097 litres. This made it a top choice for those needing ample carrying capacity. The Suburban also featured a 106-litre fuel tank, allowing for long highway drives between fill-ups, especially with the diesel engine.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 came with a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, operated via a rotary controller. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with higher trims offering wireless phone charging and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The system felt dated but was straightforward for those not seeking excessive tech.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban featured a 10.2-inch touchscreen, standard on all but the base trim. It included Google Built-in, wireless Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. A rear-seat entertainment system was available as an option. The 10-speaker Bose audio system, while good, lacked the richness of higher speaker count systems.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 was named a 2023 Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, with top scores in most crash tests. It included standard driver-assist features like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, with additional options available.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban received a four-star overall crash safety rating from the NHTSA. It included standard safety features like forward collision warning and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered Super Cruise, a semi-autonomous driving system.