Why the Mazda CX-50 Might be the CX-5 You're Looking For // Mazda CX-50 REVIEW

Even though the Mazda CX-50 seems like a very similar vehicle in size and utility to the Mazda CX-5, there are some compelling reasons why you might choose it over its stablemate, not to mention the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The Mazda drives better than anything, which is to be expected, but the CX-50 has a bit more of a premium vibe to go with its tougher, more outdoorsy exterior. The bad news here is to be expected... still rocking the 6 speed auto, still on the smallish side, and still pushing an aging infotainment system. What do you think? Is the CX-50 giving buyers enough to hold their interest until the new platform vehicles arrive? Let me know!
2022 Mazda CX-5 REVIEW
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[@angusmacdonald5300]

That white model looks stunning and the lighting and editing take it to another level! I just bought a 2025 CX-50 TPP and I’m loving it. I had 2024 CR-V hybrid and while it was comfy, it was lacking in oomph on hills and the engine could get noisy and with unpleasant CVT buzziness. Also boring to drive. Traded it in a year ago for the brand new MINI Countryman S. I parted with that car 10 days ago to trade in for something more practical, but still nice to drive. The MINI was absolutely packed with mostly gimicky tech and the ride was harsh. After 5 months and many software issues, I sadly parted with it. Took a hit of course for such a new car but I do longer trips frequently and the MINi was just plain uncomfortable and tiring for me. The MINI sports seat was Uber firm and while it looked great, it got painful on drives over 1 hour. Not sure why I haven’t found your channel previously as I’ve watched 1000s of car vids in the past year! Anyway, glad I found it.

[@jax1079]

Appreciate it! Thanks for being here!

[@vanceforrest4085]

Great review again…so good. I trust your reviews because we appreciate the same things so your reviews always ring true for me.

[@jax1079]

Thanks!

[@Go-And-Back-Anywhere]

When I hear 6 ft 6, I immediately subscribe.

[@jax1079]

I mean, I knew it would pay off someday 😂

[@RRMNEO]

So relieved to find someone over 6’ who reviewed this car! Thanks!

[@jax1079]

@@RRMNEO Absolutely! Happy to help!

[@Paulpedaling]

Currently have a 2020 CX-5, my second CX. The first was a 2013. Mazda’s fit and finish, drive characteristics and value for the money are second to none. Your videos are spot on, the US auto makers would to well to learn from Mazda.

[@jax1079]

Thanks! And thanks for watching 🙏🏻

[@syms7a]

Saw Ted Lasso S1 last year, haven’t got around to watching S2 yet but looking forward to it! Enjoyed the review!

[@jax1079]

Prepare the man tears. Season 2 is SO GOOD! Thanks for watching 🙏🏻

[@eleanormassaro5195]

Is it only available on Showtime?

[@ericdelrosario6779]

I’ve owned three succeeding Mazda vehicles already since having Isuzu, Toyota, Mitsubishi, and Subaru SUVs. I’m so happy with my recently purchased 2023 Mazda CX-50 GT Turbo. Others can nitpick anything they want on the CX-50 but we absolutely love driving this gorgeous machine. 😊 Love your video presentation and your personal take on the Mazda brand. Thanks for what you do!

[@jax1079]

Thanks so much for the kind words! Glad to hear you’re enjoying the CX-50, and thanks for watching 🙏🏻

[@eleanormassaro5195]

Well said!

[@Eleven10]

Really well done review! I bought a Preferred Plus CX-50 and have been very happy with it so far. I resisted buying a crossover until this one and the drive sold me on it. Doesn’t have tons of power without the turbo but it’s geared well and the handling is unreal. The 17” wheels also soften that ride harshness you mentioned a bit and look right on what’s supposed to be a more “rugged” vehicle. Regardless, great insight here into the overall “feel” of it

[@jax1079]

Thank you! I really appreciate it. Glad to hear you're enjoying it. Thanks for watching!

[@eleanormassaro5195]

I bought a CX50 S premium plus this past Sunday! Really enjoying it so far!

[@jax1079]

@@eleanormassaro5195 Nice! Glad to hear it, and thanks for watching!

[@AaronCarp]

I would have to get the turbo S and find some one to swap the wheels for smaller ones with nicer ride. I don’t get the 20-22” wheels on a vehicle that needs to ride nice, especially on Omaha roads 😅.

[@armandoluna6160]

​@Eleanor Massaro what is your impression 5 months in?

[@RogerSirard]

I really enjoyed watching your enthusiasm and insight in this review. Great job ! That said, they just released the 2024 CX50 upgrades to the suspension and steering. Do you believe the steering upgrade and the more comfortable ride due to the dampers would be worth waiting for. The steering and handling are what most of you reviewers appreciate in the 2023 and I am concerned I will be disappointed in the 2024 steering upgrade. Anyway, I hope to get your opinion on my query.......... and again great review ! TIA

[@jax1079]

Thank you! I think that as long as the steering is accurate lightening it up a bit won’t be a negative. I actually really liked nearly every aspect of the way the CX-50 drove, but I see why people would prefer a lighter rack on a family vehicle. For me it was the oddly shaped seat bottoms, not a deal breaker but just weird considering I enjoy the seats in every other Mazda vehicle. It’s a gorgeous SUV, though. Definitely a winner.

[@RogerSirard]

@@jax1079 Thanks for the quick reply. Appreciated ! I will be ordering the 2024 CX50 GT Turbo, as I can no longer order the 2023 CX50. However, I just hope that they do not ruin the driving experience with their modifications. As for the suspension dampers, I could only see that aspect to be a positive. It's too bad they didn't address the seat. Again, good review.

[@falee2959]

JAX what a nice color,can you tell me what’s this white color they call at MAZDA cx50? thank you so much

[@jax1079]

White…? 😜

[@stuartaaron613]

Hi Jax, sorry I'm late to the show, your video just appeared in my feed. Anyway, last Monday, 11/28/2022 I leased my fourth Mazda, a 2023 CX-50 Preferred Plus. My first Mazda was in May 2016, a Mazda3 Hatchback, following in March 2018 with a CX-5 AWD Touring, and in June 2020 with a CX-5 FWD Touring. The Mazda3 was a great little car, which I leased (all leased) for its fuel economy (2.0 L four), plus space with the hatch, and Mazda reliability. The first CX-5 I leased because the Mazda3 was not a great snow mobile (Long Island winters). The second CX-5 was FWD because now I was in Florida, so snow wasn't an issue. All three Mazdas were "Touring" trim. The main reason for going to the CX-50 was increased interior space. I wanted a longer and wider cargo area over the CX-5. So far in its first week I am very pleased with the CX-50. I don't feel that the different rear suspension is all that noticeable. The 2.5 four and six speed auto work just like in the CX-5s, with plenty of power for my needs. I am still getting used to some of the differences in the vehicles. The big problem facing Mazda with the CX-5 is that the current body is now going on its seventh year. How many more years does Mazda think they can keep selling the same box? Yes, they've made little changes in the interior, plus the 2022 refresh with the front and rear lights, but the basic vehicle hasn't changed. It's my belief that while Mazda has denied it, they will eventually replace the CX-5 with the CX-60 for the higher end of this segment, with the CX-50 covering the lower end. The big question is how much different is the CX-5 and CX-60 in size?

[@jax1079]

It’ll be interesting to see. I believe the CX-60 will be physically larger, but because of the new platform I’m not sure how that’s going to translate into interior space. Can’t wait to get behind the wheel of one, though. Thanks for watching! 🙏🏻

[@differencemaker242]

New cx5 coming in 2025

[@thunderjenkins920]

Its not as quick as the CX 5 its a nice looking vehicle but i like the CX 5 better.

[@jax1079]

It’s a win win for Mazda 😏

[@allerick]

Great video! The CX-50’s place in Mazda’s lineup and the in the market has sort of eluded me. It seemed a bit redundant with the CX-5. Great explanation! As always, appreciate the great videos and content!

[@jax1079]

Thanks! I think it really just amounts to a better CX-5 that (sort of) solves some of the CX-5’s complaints and looks even better.

[@craigjackson2120]

I currently have an ancient 2013 Audi allroad Premium Plus that, while it lacks a lot of the tech features of any new car - 1) has long been paid for, 2) is solid as a bank vault and hasn't really given me any problems, and 3) still makes me turn around to look back at it in a parking lot. I haven't really been inspired to trade because I haven't seen anything on the market that I like better than my allroad. But there's a VERY high likelihood that I'll be trading the old girl for a CX-50 Hybrid whenever it comes out. We also have a Mazda MX-5 RF in the house and my parents had a 2018 CX-9 Signature that was gorgeous and I was lucky enough to be able to drive it from NY to NC after they first got it. The interior and features were on par with my Audi. I have to give props to Mazda and their "close-to-premium" trajectory. They're nailing it. The RF is a blast to drive and looks amazingly beautiful and as hard as it is to design a sexy full-size SUV (insert Q7 comment here), they managed to do it with the CX-9. Sure, the doors don't quite thunk as solidly as a German car's, and the Audi feels like there's an extra layer of insulation slathered everywhere underneath everything, but damn, Mazda is really putting out some compelling upmarket goods and putting themselves on the radar of premium car buyers. I work in the design world and they just can't make an ugly car, same as Audi, IMO, including the Q7 (sorry) but excluding that ugly Mazda Cali-only EV thing, so I guess everyone has one ugly ducking in the family. So come on already with the Hybrid and take my money. Please...

[@jax1079]

I think you’re Mazda’s target customer. Hope they’re reading my comments section right now… 😜 If the CX-50 copies Toyota’s hybrid homework, it could become one of the sexiest and most practical SUVs on the market (along with the underrated Toyota Venza). It would be a big win for Mazda, and they’re sure could use it. Thanks for watching! 🙏🏻

[@BeyondTheTestDrive]

Where else are you gonna get Ted Lasso and Mazda with your cup of coffee?😂. I really enjoyed driving the CX-5 and it was even the non-turbo. I am thinking the purported hybrid using Toyota’s system will go nicely with Mazda’s driving dynamics. Great review Jax, as always.

[@jax1079]

I will be very interested to see how Mazda is able to incorporate a hybrid system into their brand ethos. It’s long past due, but I hope it doesn’t feel cobbled together.

[@daynevickers1079]

Really enjoyed your video! Man, If this is an example of Mazda's upcoming design language, I'm all in... Perfectly proportioned, lower, wider, longer than the CX-5, and with broad shoulders, it is the first production vehicle since 2003 (the then-new Infiniti FX-35) that makes me a little giddy. The fit and finish and the Euro-luxury interior simply add even more of that 'itch' I get when looking into a new vehicle. And, even though it shouldn't be compared to the new Honda CRV (they're apples and oranges IMHO), I priced a CRV Hybrid Sport (cloth seats, btw), versus a 2.5 'Turbo' model with a few adds, and the Mazda is a couple grand LESS... need I say more? This one smokes my shorts!

[@jax1079]

Nice! Glad you liked it. Can’t go wrong with Mazda honestly. Thanks for watching 🙏🏻

[@TVguy9999]

I test drove two Mazda vehicles and liked them both for their handling, acceleration and overall value. I was mostly looking at 2021, 2022 & 2023 models.

[@jax1079]

Mazda is excellent in those regards, and if you’re looking for used deals Mazda typically has slightly lower resale value than Honda or Toyota, so finding a deal isn’t too difficult. Thanks for watching 🙏🏻

[@crunchtimeeats347]

I think this car is for all who wanted a mazda6 wagon, which the US never got. Fine if they don’t want to call this a wagon for marketing purposes, but come on, just look at it. I say this as a positive. It has everything that US wagon niche market wants. Drives like a car with low seating near the roll axis, emphasis on square footage for cargo vs volume. It ticks all the boxes, especially for those coming from performance or sports cars, and wanting to trade for something more practical but still tolerable in the dynamics.

[@jax1079]

What I wouldn’t give for a nice Mazda wagon! Thanks for watching 🙏🏻

[@jamnaz79]

Excellent video. I am looking for a compact suv as getting a 11 month old into a civic and c250 is not fun. But I hate losing the fun of the c250 so considering a cx-5 and cx-50. My only concern for them is fitting the rear facing child seat and getting the kid in and out.

[@jax1079]

Honestly, for kids stuff like that I’d probably lean towards the CX-50, just because it has a pinch more space and I think the cargo area’s shape would be slightly more useful for that sort of thing. Anyone who says there’s an appreciable difference in dynamics between the CX-5 and CX-50 is drastically exaggerating: in almost all situations they are superior to every other vehicle in the segment, and you’d find people split on which they prefer. I lean towards the CX-50 despite its torsion beam. The steering is excellent and the body control is superb. Hope that helps! Thanks for watching 🙏🏻

[@jamnaz79]

@@jax1079 thank you for the reply I can’t wait to try it when off next week. I appreciate the information as the cx-50 looks more beautiful imo. I will test drive it next week. Personally qas looking at eh preferred plus trim since for the wife. Saw they had a few 22 cx-5 turbo for 3k under Msrp so was gonna see them too since about the same price then. But the room I think is most important. Right now getting the kid in and out is a pain( more for her head).

[@jax1079]

@@jamnaz79 I certainly remember those days. Best of luck!

[@jamnaz79]

@@jax1079 thank you and thank you for the excellent videos on both suvs

[@the_g9456]

I love Mazda, I am on my second Mazda 3, 4 door sedan. I purchased it in 2018, top of the line. It currently only has 22k miles on it. I am looking to trade up this spring and have been comparing the CX-5 and the CX-50. I love the styling of Mazda and the performance.

[@jax1079]

I agree! Thanks for watching 🙏🏻

[@Snafu2346]

I've been waiting for a while now about the long rumored and confirmed by Mazda of the CX50 Hybrid, other than confirming that they are working on one that may come out in 2023, its unknown except that Toyota is making the powerplant for it. It would come to believe that they would give them a version of the Rav4 Hybrid engine which would be great if a CX50 gets 40mpg. I'm looking to replace my aging CRV that has been reliable, and I may fix it up to keep it as a backup when things go awry. I'd like to get something more fuel eff, but able to tow my motorcycle. I hope the CX50 hybrid comes out soon that is affordable, around the price of a rav4 hybrid. Or maybe they would use the Carolla Cross Hybrid engine, as the CX50 and the Carolla are made in the same plant with Mazda/Toyota collab.

[@micah6811]

An awesome Mazda vehicle right here--love everything about it except for the leather seats (overrated!) I'm a cloth seat type of guy!

[@jax1079]

Haha! I can appreciate that. Thanks for watching!

[@cloveravalon444]

I hope they do increase the high of cell and the A angle like cx5 and the infortanment closer.

[@stevereubart8255]

Thanks for the great review. Lots of good points. I bought my CX-50 4 weeks ago today and I love it for the most part. I find the driver's seat quite comfortable, though I didn't much like it during my test drive. I think it just takes a little while to break in. The handling is great and it seems very responsive. This is my 4th Mazda-made vehicle; I keep buying them because I like the tech and the fact that they are so much fun to drive. I had a Toyota Yaris iA at first, which is a rebadged Mazda 2 sedan, and it got me hooked. I then owned two Mazda 6 sedans. We traded a 2015 RAV4 and my beloved 2020 Mazda 6 GTR (Soul Red) for the CX-50 because we needed only one car now, and it needed to be an SUV for winters here.

[@jax1079]

Nice! Glad to hear you like it. Thanks for watching! 🙏🏻

[@armandoluna6160]

Hey Steve.. 6 months in now. How are you liking it? I got a 03 Protege5 and it's about that time.

[@stevereubart8255]

@@armandoluna6160 Great so far. The ONLY thing I'm not fond of is the color (Machine Gray), but the dealer couldn't get one in Soul Red when I needed it. I'm about to do my first road trip in a couple of weeks and, based on other people's experiences, I expect it to be a very comfortable ride.

[@armandoluna6160]

@Steve Reubart nice good to hear. I liked 2 colors. Sand and Machine Gray. The Sand is not avail and none in order with the Terracotta interior. So Machine it will be with Terracotta interior. Looking forward to it. I test drove one yesterday and loved it.

[@chriskeele5516]

How did you like getting in and out of the driver's seat? I'm only 6'2" and didn't find it comfortable at all! I had to lower the seat all the way and pull the steering wheel out.

[@jax1079]

Well that's just sort of par for the course for me, so I don't think much of it. I prefer to sit a little lower anyway, but yes, I had the seat down and the steering wheel out as far as it would go. I was much more irritated by the oddly shaped butt cushion, which was strange. Thanks for watching!

[@B.D.TRX4]

I really advise before you buy this.. make sure your passengers who are big and tall and fit in the rear seats.. i sat in the cx-5 and try cx-50 and you can see that cx-50 has LESS head room … also they downgraded the rear suspension over what the cx-5 has…

[@jax1079]

I’m 6’6” and I can fit. Headroom is compromised at my height, but then again, I am in the 99th percentile. It’s fine for most people. And much has been made about the rear suspension, but I’d challenge any normal (non car enthusiast) to notice a difference. In fact, I quite liked the way the CX-50 handled.

[@B.D.TRX4]

@@jax1079 if there was no real difference between the more expensive multi-link suspension and the cheaper torsion beam design..why would Mazda just not use the cheaper option to begin with ? What do , high end cars come with ? Multi-link or the cheaper option. ?

[@jax1079]

@@B.D.TRX4 I think we're seeing some brands switch to save costs and increase cargo capacity. Mazda made the switch to reinvest in the interior, Ford made the switch in Europe with the Focus, often praised for its handling, and Mercedes and Audi both sell versions of the A class and A3 overseas with torsion beams. I'd be willing to bet if you put most journalists into a small car with a torsion beam versus a multilink setup, they'd be hard pressed to tell the difference (myself included).

[@B.D.TRX4]

@@jax1079 does that mean with Mazda doing that now on a newer model ,And nobody can really tell a difference anyways... They'll be doing that with all their vehicles going forward? Why would Mazda spend more money than they have to if nobody can feel a difference anyways? Ya know ? What's the point then ? Why not do that tonall their models and lower the overall costs of making their vehicles. ?

[@10tenman10]

I've heard that the drivers seat is uncomfortable in several reviews

[@jax1079]

Weirdly, yes, it does seem to be a common complaint. It’s a shame, too, because it looks fantastic, especially at this price point. Maybe car reviewers are just shaped different 😂

[@RealKevGotEm]

Has anyone gotten this vehicle and not liked it and if so what were your reasons I’m not liking it I really want a CX 50 but I wanna see what people think about it

[@jax1079]

Seats could be more comfortable and infotainment is dated. Other than that… it’s pretty fantastic. 😉👍🏻

[@jbeechuk]

Nah. Lower front end looks bizarre. Fake rear side vents are cheesy. Oversized body cladding looks terrible. CX-5 is still better.

[@jax1079]

Interesting. Well, beauty is always in the eye of the beholder. I suppose as long as you stay within the brand, Mazda doesn't really mind either way. thanks for watching!

[@clutch7366]

To each their own! The CX-5 has grown on me, but only after buying a CX-50 turbo premium plus. CX-5 exterior styling never excited me. I had been looking for a new car for a year, and when I saw the CX-50 interior and exterior, I bought one three days later; zircon sand and terracotta. Mazda was never on my radar. For so many years I wrote Mazda off as a boring commuter brand. I’ve never been so happy to be wrong. The car feels so special every time I see it and get inside for a drive.

[@jax1079]

@@clutch7366 This right here is the testimonial Mazda needs. Glad to hear you like it!