Despite having been founded a century ago in 1920, Mazda has never tapped into the off-road-ready production model market — a segment that’s become increasingly popular in recent years, as demonstrated by model ranges like the Ford Bronco and Subaru’s Wilderness lineup. However, for 2023, Mazda is looking to get in on the action with the debut of its all-new CX-50 crossover.
Developed specifically for the North American market, the CX-50 features a host of impressive cutting-edge features, such as i-Activ AWD tech that’s supplemented via Mazda’s Intelligent Drive Select system, which now includes a dedicated Off-Road mode, in addition to Sport and Normal modes. As one would expect from an off-road-focused model, the CX-50 sports a slightly lifted suspension package and plastic cladding adorning the bottom of the car’s bodywork and its flared wheel arches. Roof rails also come as standard, and Mazda appears to be offering an optional roof rack. Powering the CX-50 is the customer’s choice of either a 187-hp naturally-aspirated 2.5L inline-four or a turbocharged 2.5L four-banger, though the Japanese automaker has also stated that it plans to eventually roll out a hybrid-spec CX-50.
Thus far, Mazda has announced that the 2023 CX-50 is scheduled for release in the Spring of 2022. Pricing has yet to be revealed, though the CX-50 is expected to cost slightly more than Mazda’s existing CX-5 model, which starts at just under $28,000.
