2023 Mazda CX50 Turbo Premium - Review by Mark Fulmer

A Road-running Crossover Cruiser with Off-road Skills

Mark Fulmer
Executive Producer, Editor
THE AUTO CHANNEL

The 2023 CX-50 is the first vehicle produced at the new Mazda Toyota Manufacturing plant in Huntsville, Alabama, and there is no doubt that is 100% Mazda - from its smooth exterior and interior styling to its perky powerplant and suspension that keeps its "fun-to-drive" reputation alive and well.

Powered by a punchy turbocharged 2.5-liter I4 that puts out 256 Horsepower with torque coming in at 320 Pound-Feet, you have a intown vehicle that is both poised and playful. Fuel economy comes in at 23 City / 29 Highway / 25 Combined. Driving dynamics and suspension are simply delicious especially snaking along twisty pavement.

Front seats are snug and comfy with expensive-feeling materials in this the full-bore Turbo Premium Plus trim.
Front seat specs
head room 39.1 in.
leg room 41.7 in.
shoulder room 55.9 in.
hip room 53.6 in.

Passengers in the rear seats appreciated and commented on the soft-touch materials and well-ventilated cross-stitched leather seats. And for the lengthy folks, no complaints about cramped quarters.
Rear seat specs
head room 38.6 in.
leg room 39.8 in.
shoulder room 53.6 in.
hip room 52.1 in.

Mazda's first panoramic moonroof gives an expansive feeling and view.

That little knob to the right of the large control dial is audio off/on and volume. It gets my vote for Best Placement. No reaching up to the dash. Just an inch or two from your right hand on the console arm rest.

CX-50 cargo space with all seats in place is 31.4 cu.ft.

With second row flattened - 56.3 cu.ft.

Standard safety features include:
Parking sensors
Side-impact beams
Automatic emergency braking
Lane-departure warning
Lane-keeping assist
Adaptive cruise control

With snazzy good looks and interior style, the 2023 CX50 combines rugged skills and capability with the usual Mazda spritely ride.