2 Hidden Benefits to Owning a 2023 Mazda CX-50
Car shopping can often be influenced by the heart more than the head. Still, even as many go to sign the dotted line, there remain aspects of owning a particular model that often go without much consideration. And in two of these areas, the 2023 Mazda CX-50 shines.
1. The 2023 Mazda CX-50 is projected to have excellent resale value
Initial pricing obviously influences a car purchase decision, but resale value is a vital consideration when it comes time to start the buying process over again. After all, an initial lower price may be appealing, but those savings can be wiped out completely if a model loses more of its value over the years.
In that regard, the CX-50 may cost a bit more than some of its rivals, but few compact SUVs can compete with the expected resale value of the 2023 Mazda CX-50.
J.D. Power gives the 2023 CX-50 a score of 84 out of 100 points for its expected resale value, a “great” rating. This score is given based on the expected depreciation of the Mazda compact SUV over the next three years. Only the Kia Sportage, Subaru Forester, Honda CR-V, and Jeep Wrangler rank higher in J.D. Power’s 2023 expected resale value rankings among the flooded compact SUV segment.
It’s worth noting the CX-50 is all-new for the 2023 model year, but it shares its expected resale value rating with its similar sibling, the CX-5.
2. 2023 CX-50 buyers give the Mazda dealership experience a high rating
The CX-50 — or, more accurately, Mazda — earns 88 out of 100 points for the dealership experience among buyers, an exceptionally high score. This figure is tallied by owners based on their overall experience purchasing the car, including customer service and the dealership facilities, and the “quality of work” completed at the dealer.
Many notable brands, including Toyota, Honda, Hyundai, and Nissan, all rank in the low 80s or 70s in dealership experience.
The CX-50 is a strong contender in its class
Mazda is positioning itself as a more premium mainstream automotive brand, extending to the 2023 model year CX-50. The CX-50 costs more than many of its rivals, but its interior quality and materials are certainly a step above the norm. Opt for a higher trim, and the cabin practically infringes into luxury territory.
Like its other Mazda stablemates, the CX-50 also prioritizes some “Zoom-Zoom” character with overall agility often missing from the compact SUV market. It’s powered by a 187-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder with a turbocharged version available, upping the power to 256 ponies. Both pair to a six-speed automatic transmission.
Some buyers may not appreciate the CX-50’s slightly stiff ride and heavy steering. Still, those characteristics will be appreciated by those who want to have their compact SUV deliver some thrills around undulating tarmac.
The CX-50 is the slightly larger brother of the CX-5. The most apparent difference between the two compacts is the CX-50’s more rugged exterior styling and slightly larger dimensions. The latter allows the CX-50 to accommodate slightly more cargo, though rear passengers have a bit less headroom. Notably, the CX-50 also features standard all-wheel drive.
The 2023 Mazda CX-50 starts at $28,925 MSRP with a total of 10 trims available, topping out with the $43,675 Turbo Premium Plus.
