The 2023 Mazda CX-50 Outshines Rivals at an Unbeatable Price
Mazda SUVs are a secret weapon in a world of automotive choices that can feel as overwhelming as a Las Vegas buffet. The 2023 Mazda CX-50 swoops in like a suave superhero to save the day. While its rivals might be stuck in a traffic jam of sameness, the CX-50 boldly zooms ahead with the confidence of a penguin in formal wear. Living up to the Sport Utility Vehicle name, this Mazda is unexpected, delightful, and guaranteed to make you smile all the way to work.
How much is a fully loaded 2023 Mazda CX-50?
The good news is that the 2023 Mazda CX-50 comes in an array of affordable choices ranging from $27,550 to $42,300. Full disclosure, Mazda sent us the CX-50 to drive for a week in the 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition trim. Otherwise, a base model starts at only $27,550 and is well-equipped. A fully loaded 2023 CX-50 costs $42,300, but it comes stocked with every feature and package you might want.
| 2023 Mazda CX-50 Trim | MSRP |
| 2.5 S | $27,550 |
| 2.5 S Select | $28,950 |
| 2.5 S Preferred | $30,250 |
| 2.5 S Preferred Plus | $32,690 |
| 2.5 S Premium | $35,150 |
| 2.5 S Premium Plus | $37,150 |
| 2.5 Turbo | $37,150 |
| 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition | $39,950 |
| 2.5 Turbo Premium | $40,300 |
| 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus | $42,300 |
The base model CX-50 2.5 S will probably suit many shoppers, but Mazda has 10 different options. On the 2.5 S, you still get an eight-inch infotainment screen, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, eight speakers, and two USB ports. It has adjustable front seats, split-folding rear seats, and roof rails.
The 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition served us well during our trial week, living up to the high expectations Mazda set forth. While the base models get the 187 horsepower engine, ours had the 256 horsepower turbo engine. That was enough to make heavy Florida traffic disappear in the rearview.
What SUVs are comparable to the Mazda CX-50?
The competition for the 2023 Mazda CX-50 consists of vehicles like the 2023 Toyota RAV4 and the 2023 Honda CR-V. Even though the 2023 Mazda CX-50 is brand new to the market, the automaker nailed everything right out of the gate. However, the compact SUV segment isn’t for the weak of engine. Vehicles like the Toyota RAV4 and the Honda CR-V pretty much dominate sales, but the CX-50 has a lot to offer.
You have the 2023 Toyota RAV4 with its long history of reliability. Starting at only $27,975, it comes in at just $425 more than the Mazda. Both compact SUVs come pretty well equipped with safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane keep assist. It isn’t the most exciting ride, but the long history of reliability makes up for it.
Similarly, the 2023 Honda CR-V starts at $28,410 and has features like automatic climate control, push-button start, and remote keyless entry. Honda’s safety systems offer protection for both the driver and all passengers. However, the CR-V is not improving the daily drive with any of its power or features.
Is the 2023 Mazda CX-50 worth buying?
If there is one thing the 2023 Mazda CX-50 gets right, it is the spirited ride and ending performance. Mazda offers a few different engine choices with varying horsepower. Using 93 octane will get you even more power, but it isn’t required in all trim levels. For those interested in a spirited ride to work or a little extra power on the drive home from school, the CX-50 is the grocery-getter of our dreams.
It is clear the 2023 Mazda CX-50 is one of the best new compact SUVs this year, so the competition should be afraid. There will always be uninteresting options on the market, so why not try for the more exciting SUV for once? The CX-50 is a rolling reminder that driving should be an experience, not just a chore.
