Is the Mazda CX-50 Meridian Edition Worth the Extra Cash?
The beefiest off-roading option for the Mazda CX-50 is finally here. But is it worth the wait or extra cash? We already know that the CX-50 is pretty groundbreaking, so let’s see what the 2023 Mazda CX-50 Meridian Edition does to spice things up even more.
How much does the 2023 Mazda CX-50 Meridian Edition cost?
You can get started with the 2023 Mazda CX-50 Meridian Edition for the price of $41,225. The Meridian Package costs $2,800 more than the CX-50 Turbo trim that slots below it. Also, the roof platform is available for $1,295.
The entry-level CX-50 has an MSRP of $26,800. So, it costs about $14,425 to go from the basic trim to the top-spec option. Then you can add about $1,295 to go for all the bells and whistles. Off-roading in premium comfort doesn’t exactly come cheap.
The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness starts at around $37,695, and the 2022 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road model begins at about $36,915. So the Meridian is a bit pricier than off-road-oriented competitors, but it may include more than enough value to be worth it.
What comes with the CX-50 Meridian Edition?
The 2023 Mazda CX-50 Meridian Edition comes with the more powerful engine option. According to Mazda, it has the 2.5-liter turbo-four engine that provides 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque with regular gas.
You can add a little punch with 93 octane to increase these figures to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. The standard 2.5-liter inline-four engine cranks out 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque.
The primary upgrade includes exclusive 18-inch black wheels with a beefier spoke design. The wheels are wrapped in chunky 225/60-18 Falken all-terrain tires. Plus, the black lug caps and wheel locks provide a little more visual flare.
You also get different headlight surrounds, rocker panels, and a hood graphic that says ‘CX-50’. It should help reduce glare while climbing over obstacles.
The Merdian is available in two exclusive shades of paint, including Zircon Sand and Polymetal Gray Metallic. The interior is Terracotta Brown with black accents. There are no mechanical or suspension upgrades with this trim.
But don’t forget about the roof platform. With the $1,253 Apex Package, you get the top-mounted cargo carrier that sits on black crossbars and splash guards behind each wheel.
Does the CX-50 Meridian Edition have nice features?
The 2023 Mazda CX-50 Meridian Edition is incredibly luxurious. It features leather upholstery, heated seats, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, tinted rear passenger windows, and more.
Higher trim levels of the CX-50 come with a 10.3-inch infotainment screen, while an 8.8-inch unit comes standard. You also get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while a wireless phone charging pad is optional.
The available head-up display and surround view camera make daily driving a little more engaging. Plus, the camera views make it easier to navigate through tight city areas and narrow trails.
But the only extra interior features with the Meridian Edition include the Terracotta brown upholstery color. It’s worth the upgrade if you like the way it looks or want a roof rack. Otherwise, other trims are just as capable and comfortable.
