2023 Mazda CX-50 Meridian Apex Review: Is This the Ultimate Compact SUV?

Looking for a comprehensive review of the 2023 Mazda CX-50 Meridian Apex? Look no further! In this video, we dive deep into the features and performance of Mazda's latest compact SUV, exploring everything from its sleek design to its impressive technology and driving capabilities. Whether you're a Mazda enthusiast or simply in the market for a new SUV, this video has everything you need to know about the CX-50 Meridian Apex. So sit back, relax, and join us for an in-depth look at one of the most exciting SUVs of 2023!
Learn How To Sit Behind The Wheel | • Learn How To Sit Behin...
The 2023 Mazda CX-50 Turbo | • The 2023 Mazda CX-50 T...
-----------------------
/// MERCH
Pick up some sweet merch in our store! brianmakse.myspreadshop.com
///DAVE'S CORNER GARAGE RADIO SHOW
Visit www.davescornergarage.com/ to listen live online Saturdays at 10am Eastern or enjoy our past episodes in podcast form.
/// LET’S CHAT
Want to learn how I produce car reviews for KZbin, need car buying advice, want to learn how to get into car racing, or just want to chat about cars? Book me on Superpeer! superpeer.com/brianmakse
/// SUBSCRIBE
Subscribe NOW to Brian Makse's Channel: kzbin.info_...
/// SOCIAL
Instagram: / brianmakse
Twitter: / brianmakse
Facebook: / makseattack
Link In My Bio: makse.com/linkinbio/
/// MORE
About Brian: makse.com/about
Be sure to let us know what you think about this video and smash the subscribe button, if you haven’t already!
Music © 2023 Russell Soares (russellsoares.com), used with permission, all rights reserved.
#brianmakse #MazdaCX50 #MeridianApex #SUVreview

[@BrianMakse]

Thanks for watching our review of the 2023 Mazda CX-50 Meridian Apex. If you're as excited about driving as we are, be sure to check out our merch store at brianmakse.myspreadshop.com for exclusive gear and accessories. From t-shirts and hats to mugs and phone cases, we've got everything you need to show off your love for driving. Don't forget to hit that like button and subscribe to our channel for more reviews and adventures. See you on the road!

[@johnnytampocao7671]

What a beautiful SUV to drive in this particular terrain. The interior color is my favorite.

[@Avijit1308]

Brian, This is the first video I watched in your channel and it certainly won’t be the last. I have been driving this for past year and I can say with certainty that no other car in it’s class will make you smile every time you drive it. It punches above its weight class is comparable to maybe an X3 in driving dynamics!

[@BrianMakse]

Totally agree, glad you enjoyed!

[@sgt.pepper4274]

LOL. I absolutely love where the infotainment controller is. I couldn't have placed it in a more perfect spot for me. I know u weren't harping on it, but it just goes to show how different and alike we are. Nice review. I picked one up in the gray metallic last week. Best vehicle in this class by far.

[@BrianMakse]

Congrats! Enjoy!

[@Gsijin42]

Love the review and a new sub - is it the wheels that push you to this trim?

[@BrianMakse]

Wheels and tires for sure. Thanks for joining us here!

[@10tenman10]

Thank you for the review; this is on my short list.

[@BrianMakse]

It’s a good thing! This is the third time I’ve done an episode with one!

[@rahulsarugaser3972]

Great review, as always Brian. My only hang up is the torsion rear beam, vs. the CX-5's independent rear suspension. How did you find this CX-50's rear behaviour relative to its sibling, as well as vs. other vehicles in the class? Cheers.

[@BrianMakse]

Hey Rahul, the CX-50 is the best handling crossover in the segment, but I gotta ask - who told you that a torsion beam is bad and what reasons did they provide? (I’ve got a CX-30 episode coming up where I address that specifically.)

[@rahulsarugaser3972]

Thanks for the response, Brian. A few reputable reviewers have noted the torsion beam as a 'simpler' suspension setup -- i.e. Savagegeese [kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y5exdJ6YZdR8iM0] @ 5:15, 8:30 -- saying that it is perhaps not as great under more spirited/extreme driving. I know the answer is: why would one do extreme driving in an SUV (get a sports car for that [I have a manual Cayman GTS 4.0, and loved your review on that too, btw]), but us car nerds generally want to select a vehicle that has the best components, such that even when driving at 50%, it is still fun. :) Also, while I have your attention, I'll lob in a second (if slightly unfair) question: buy the CX 50, or wait for the new in-line 6 cylinder CX 70? I know no one has had a chance to drive it yet, but perhaps you could extrapolate from your impressions of the new IL-6 CX 90? (For the record, your reviews are all really excellent -- I particularly enjoyed your Miata Base is Ace Vid -- and I just wanted to say thank you for engaging with us car nerds out there). :)

[@BrianMakse]

Well, Rahul, lots to unpack here, but thank you for appreciating our work. My mission is to share the unvarnished and unfiltered truth about vehicles with drivers like you. That said, it's bubble-bursting time. As soon as KZbin subs and view counts translate to competence behind the wheel it will be a transcendent moment for humanity. For as long as I've been on KZbin, it hasn't happened. Until then, I'll let my driving experience speak for itself and in that context, it's my opinion that anyone who says the torsion beam setup in the CX-50 imbues it with any negative, real-world handling characteristics is clueless. Those folks should stick with dash stroking and quoting spec sheets...because they can't articulate the subtleties of on-limit handling since they can't find them. (These folks inspired the "Cars Don't Understeer..." line of merch in our store.) This episode demonstrates from the drop that the CX-50 is satisfying and entirely controllable beyond 100%, but, hey, what do I know? I'm just a dumb racing driver. Anyway...back to reality. Regarding CX-70, I haven't seen any timelines on that, but CX-90 is imminent. Reliable sources say it's quite good. See MotomanTV's episodes for an in-depth (and trustworthy) look at the CX-90. If you need something now, you can't go wrong with a CX-50. Happy to discuss the dynamics of the CX-50 any time!

[@BrianMakse]

@@rahulsarugaser3972 I watched this episode and they didn't actually say anything...except to leave you with the wrong idea that's completely baseless. Ridiculous.

[@differencemaker242]

Now THIS is what I want to see! You couldve done 30 min of driviving in the SNOW and I woulda watched every minute. Great looking video

[@BrianMakse]

Thanks, that was a lot of fun. Got lucky with the weather. And the CX-50 is a joy in deep snow!

[@differencemaker242]

@Brian Makse You got any vids on how to do those race car drivery moves? I want to learn that stuff

[@mdatpe]

Loved the review s I have the zircon sand gt turbo model . My question is the only real difference is the tires (other than cosmetics) or am I missing something? A Meridian cost more but I think I could buy tires / rims aftermarket as well as hood graphic. P

[@BrianMakse]

I think it’s wheels/tires and a some other trim that are the only differences. I prefer the 18s over the 20s for a few reasons.

[@michaelstone7514]

Nice review Brian. My question is would you chose the CX 50 over the Outback Wilderness and why.

[@BrianMakse]

We answer those questions in the Members section. Come on over!

[@somanycreaditcards]

The outback is so ugly. The ugliest car ever made.

[@Stroupquartet]

Love this vehicle. Just purchased one. Only bummer is after 400 miles, it needs a rear differential. So, I am in a loaner for a while until the part comes in. But LOVE

[@Epin-Ephrine]

You drove your CX-50 for only 400 miles and your rear differential broke already??

[@antoniofigueroa5084]

Whoa! Nice driving!

[@BrianMakse]

Thanks! That’s what we do here!

[@David-et7gk]

So if i'm driving during the winter and on 12 cms of snow, do I put on off road mode for the best traction or just keep it on normal?

[@BrianMakse]

Normal is fine for snow, the system will sort it out. Off road is for actual off roading.

[@timothygibney159]

I just bought this and love it! I didn't buy the roof rack. Would a third party roof rack make less noise

[@BrianMakse]

Congrats, great buy! No, another roof rack would be just as noisy.

[@francisgallozzi2595]

The 2.5L Skyactiv-G Turbo engine is not a single scroll turbo as you described, but it's a twin-scroll counterpart.

[@BrianMakse]

Quite possible, I'm pretty sure my notes were correct. I've driven this engine way too many times.

[@tommy13965]

It’s twin scroll

[@LiveWire-it8zr]

Cx50 is twin scroll cx5 is variable nozzle

[@joeamith838]

save the $2800 and just buy new 18'' rims and tires for regular CX-50.

[@soronir3526]

Was almost about to pull the trigger on a CX-30 but now the 50 has caught my eye. Some people say don't get the Turbo, others rave about it. Not sure if I wanna be practical or splurge.

[@BrianMakse]

Get the turbo.

[@sgt.pepper4274]

Yes, get the turbo. I did. I wouldn't consider this vehicle without it. And with extra horsepower and torque, the gas mileage doesn't suffer versus the non-turbo version.

[@timothygibney159]

I originally bought the TPP then a month later traded it in for the meridian turbo. The interior upgrade is well worth it. Personally both are torquey the NA will last longer as turbos wear an engine down but yes if I hit the gas hard I can get to 0 to 60 1 second faster. It's quicker but the NA is no slouch either

[@VitoC.]

Nice review! Feels and looks like a grown up Mazda 3 turbo.

[@BrianMakse]

It does! Stylish, too.

[@sgt.pepper4274]

And it's off the same platform.

[@randomgameuploads1162]

I got the meridian yesterday! best CUV ever!

[@BrianMakse]

Congrats! Enjoy!

[@10tenman10]

Whole I didn't see it I believe there was a smile on your face as you were drifting on the snow (my son lives in Toronto and I thought all the snow had melted).

[@BrianMakse]

I think I shot this on one of the two days we had snow in Southern Ontario. I shoot episodes like this way outside the city.

[@VitoC.]

@@BrianMakse go figure right? As we bask in 25C heat today lol

[@10tenman10]

I previously lived on Quebec Avenue in Bloor West village area. Agree it can warm up very quickly !

[@converdis449]

From ‘down under’ love your reviews Brian 💪 as you know at the moment sadly no CX50 for us ‘Aussies’. Love the terra-cotta interior not a fan of the roof rack

[@BrianMakse]

Thanks, appreciate it! I can’t speak for Mazda’s product planners in Australia, but I think this would be a successful product there.

[@mikek5631]

We're cross shopping this and the Bronco Sport. My Wife of course loves the Bronco Sport for it's unique and fun look. But I have serious doubts about it's reliability. I also look at the Bronco Sport and I have no idea why it's so expensive. It sure isn't because of the interior nor is it the 1.5l 3cyl engine. I can't believe that Bronco Sport is over $40K here in Canada. I'm trying desperately to gently nudge her towards this Mazda. May not be as adventurous looking as the Bronco Sport, but I would be willing to bet money that the Mazda would last longer and retain it's resale value longer.

[@michaelp.3485]

If she insists on getting the Bronco, than she can pay for any repairs and rental cars you need.

[@davidwayne9982]

I thought from the comparison charts on specs, that one could get the TURBO PREMIUM and just change the wheels and tires and maybe add the factory 1.5 inch lift and HAVE the meridian (minus graphics-- which I can do myself with plasti-dip and they're removable that way)..

[@BrianMakse]

I don't think it's possible, or at least it wasn't when we did this video. Things may have changed, but I agree, the wheels and tires make a lot of sense on this crossover.

[@davidwayne9982]

@@BrianMakse I'ts NOT possible through the dealers-- but I'm sure they won't refuse to just sell me a set of wheels and tires-- or at the very least the WHEELS- and I'll have it done myself and sell the original 20s to some retard that thinks they're acutally good.

[@10tenman10]

Agree with the roof rack; looks cool but would never use it.

[@BrianMakse]

Yep. I wouldn’t.

[@brytonmunro5270]

That being said; it might end up encouraging activities that would utilize it. Camping, canoeing, surfing, skiing/snowboarding, etc.

[@LoveLikeaHurricane]

choosing this or the trailsport passport/pilot. I prefer the Honda...but they have their problems with new engine and VCM disable compatibility , as well as timing belt.

[@BrianMakse]

Explain.

[@gehrig398]

Why only those 2 colors for this trim? Makes no sense to me

[@luist6mazda]

Im in between this and the 2023 Toyota 4Runner. I own a mobile bartending company so truck space is crucial but also MPGs

[@BrianMakse]

Have a look at the CX-50 and 4Runner episodes on this channel and I think you’ll be able to make an informed decision with that info. Let me know what you decide.

[@anthonyc.4246]

Neither is great on MPG. I own a 4Runner and just bought the Meridian edition. For trunk space, for sure 4Runner. Though the CX-50 is more than adequate for normal-life cargo. Oh, and the CX-50 is prob at least $10,000 cheaper depending on specs.

[@K03sport]

should Mazda get rid of the strip in the center of the seat?? Can't wait for all of the special edition MX-5s to start dropping. 3 trims is nice, but Mazda needs to start pumping out (M) spec and anniversary models. SUVs are nice, but ppl still love great sports cars.... 🏁

[@BrianMakse]

Same here! We need more MX-5 content on this channel!

[@davidwayne9982]

THIS is what I want to see--- WET SLOPPY SNOW!! We get a lot of that around here lately-- and I need the capability-- so curious to see how it does.. I love EVERYHTHING about this --EXCEPT for the RETARD inspired 20: wheels (STUPID looking and screws up the ride as well as performance), and the NON-needed Moon roor (a LEAK waiting to happen) and the infotainment screen-- which should either be totally OUTLAWED-- or made to work ONLY if STOPPED or backing up-- (I say that because I was a tow driver and 87% of the accidents I worked were CAUSED by some fool looking at one of these instead of focusing on the road-- or using a phone, sterioe-- if you're going to DRIVE-- DRIVE- which is why these should be made to NOT WORK goring foward AT ALL-- only sitting still or backiing up - for the cameras. )

[@RangerRickTV]

I wish it came in white.

[@BrianMakse]

The regular, non-Meridian one does. You could always swap wheels and tires to get close to it.

[@justincredible9294]

Twin scroll turbo…. Not single.

[@davidwayne9982]

I like the one does NOT need a Doctorate in computer science to drive the damn thing..

[@rafal4052]

Mazda all the way

[@ErikS308]

Roof rack is loud and hurts MPG. I have one.

[@BrianMakse]

That would have saved me from doing this review.

[@richardk8054]

The strip in the center of the seat. Is it uncomfortable when driving in short or long drive? Seeing other video say feels like credit card swipe on your butt.

[@BrianMakse]

Sounds like someone is a little to fixated on the wrong sort of thing.

[@anthonyc.4246]

It's not the strip, it's the wheels. I test drove the CX-50 turbo and thought the seats were brutally firm. But then I test drive the Meridian and realized it wasn't the seats, it was the 20" rims on the turbo. The Meridian comes with 18's and chunkier tires, and the seats now don't bother me at all. So, I bought one!

[@johnnysunrocket8618]

Draw back for me is… NO Digital Instrument Panel or Digital Cockpit All high end SUVs include that feature. Toyota Honda Volkswagen etc. 😞 😢

[@BrianMakse]

It’s a car, not a laptop.

[@anthonyc.4246]

​@@BrianMakseExactly!! Are you looking for more screentime and apps or do you want a car with an amazing driving experience? Get off your screens and drive!!

[@BrianMakse]

@@anthonyc.4246 too many buyers are looking for more of those features sadly

[@tonytitado6478]

You forgot to mention the noisy cabin and the poor location of the cup holder. I just bought me one a week ago and i'm having buyer's remorse. This vehicle also requires high octane gasoline and eats it up like it's going out of style. I say that for the price, a Honda CR-V Hybrid would be a better choice. If you're living on a fixed income, stay away from this car...good luck.

[@BrianMakse]

Tony, the noise comes from the unnecessary roof rack, which I did discuss. It doesn't require premium fuel. And who complains about cupholders? This is a motor vehicle, not a coffee table.

[@know916bound]

Couldn't disagree with you more. And most vehicles have cupholders that won't fit your biggest thermos either. Thats what the cupholders on the door trim are for. And you can literally use regular gas. Premium fuel is only if you want to use it. For more untapped power. And the road noise is probably a mix of offroad tires and roof rack, which are known to be noisy, which I've never really noticed in a cx50. I felt like the atlas i was just in sounded a bit louder and plastics inside were more audible.

[@anthonyc.4246]

1. Doesn't require premium gas. 2. Who gives a f**k about cupholders? 3. I don't think you really even own one. If you did, you'd be in love. (And who buys a turbo and expects great gas mileage??) 4. Go buy a CR-V, the Meridian is too cool for you anyway. #getasoccermomcar

[@davidwayne9982]

I wish they'd get RID of the damn info BS altogether.. OR at least limit it to SITTING STILL or backing up-- make it NOT WORK going forward-- that way NO ONE gets distracted F..g with the damn things and causing accidents. (as a tow driver- I cleaned up after folks getting killed by some FOOL using one of these damn things and hate them)..

[@davidwayne9982]

Does it have any of that RETARDED "Stop/Start" crap??? and if so can you DISABLE IT (since they are not smart enough to OUTLAW THAT IGNORANCE)..

[@BrianMakse]

Everything has stop/start and I think every one can be disabled. At the very high end, it's seamless, but it's noticeable on just about everything else.

[@davidwayne9982]

@@BrianMakse I don't care if it's seamless-- when it starts getting lots of wear and tear it WON"T be and could very well fail when needed MOST... I will get that obs plugin thing that disables it permanently.. ShOULD be outlawed...