# 2024 Mazda CX-50 Review: A Leading Contender in Its Segment – The Torque Report
The compact SUV sector ranks among the toughest arenas in the automotive field, with manufacturers consistently striving to produce vehicles that merge performance, comfort, technology, and aesthetics. Among the numerous players, the **2024 Mazda CX-50** emerges as a premier choice, presenting a distinctive mix of toughness, sophistication, and driving experience. This review will thoroughly explore what makes the 2024 Mazda CX-50 a formidable rival in its class and why it should be on your radar.
## Overview: A New Era of Mazda
The Mazda CX-50 debuted as a completely new model in 2022, and for 2024, it continues to enhance its reputation. Positioned slightly above the beloved Mazda CX-5, the CX-50 is tailored for those who seek a more rugged and adventure-ready SUV while still enjoying Mazda’s hallmark driving experience and elegant design.
Mazda has a longstanding commitment to delivering driving enjoyment, and the CX-50 exemplifies this philosophy. It fuses the brand’s Kodo design language with a more robust, off-road-capable persona, presenting a versatile option for both city and outdoor escapades.
## Exterior Design: Sturdy Sophistication
The 2024 Mazda CX-50 perfectly balances sturdiness and sophistication. It retains the sleek, graceful contours that Mazda is celebrated for but incorporates a more powerful and assertive stance. The expansive grille, pronounced fenders, and elevated ground clearance contribute to the CX-50’s authoritative presence on the road, while the dark cladding around the wheel wells and lower body signals its off-road potential.
The CX-50’s dimensions are slightly greater than those of the CX-5, providing a more generous cabin and cargo space. The lower roofline lends it a sportier appearance, while the extended wheelbase promotes stability and riding comfort. Standard features include LED headlights and taillights, with higher trims offering options like a panoramic sunroof and 20-inch alloy wheels.
## Interior: Luxurious and Practical
Upon entering the 2024 Mazda CX-50, you’ll be greeted by superior materials and meticulous craftsmanship that Mazda is recognized for. The interior features a combination of soft-touch materials, high-grade leather, and polished metal touches, creating an upscale atmosphere that competes with premium brands.
The CX-50 accommodates five passengers, with plenty of headroom and legroom for those in both the front and rear. The seats are comfortable and provide excellent support, making long journeys enjoyable. Higher trims are equipped with leather seating, heated and ventilated front chairs, and a heated steering wheel. The rear seating also boasts a 60/40 split-folding function, allowing for expanded cargo capacity when required.
In terms of technology, the CX-50 includes a standard 8.8-inch or optional 10.25-inch infotainment display, operated via a rotary dial on the centralized console. The system is user-friendly and compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A premium Bose audio system is available on upper trims, delivering clear and immersive sound quality.
## Performance: Zoom-Zoom with an Adventurous Edge
Mazda has always taken pride in producing vehicles that offer an enjoyable driving experience, and the 2024 CX-50 is no exception. The SUV provides two engine choices, each delivering a satisfying mix of power and fuel efficiency.
1. **2.5-liter Inline-4 (Naturally Aspirated)**: The standard engine generates 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. It pairs with a six-speed automatic transmission and includes all-wheel drive (AWD) as a standard feature. This engine is smooth and responsive, making it perfect for everyday driving and highway travel.
2. **2.5-liter Turbocharged Inline-4**: For those seeking added power, the turbocharged engine offers up to 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque (when using premium fuel). This engine provides a significant increase in acceleration and overtaking capability, making it ideal for those desiring a more dynamic driving experience.
Both engines work in conjunction with Mazda’s i-Activ AWD system, which continuously assesses road conditions and adjusts power distribution to enhance traction and stability. The CX-50 also incorporates Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control Plus, which improves cornering stability by subtly altering engine torque and brake input.
For drivers who relish exploring off the beaten path, the CX-50 features a **Mi-Drive** system with selectable driving modes, including **Normal, Sport, Off-Road**, and **Towing**. The Off-Road mode fine-tunes the AWD system and throttle response for tackling rugged terrain, while the Towing mode optimizes performance for trailer hauling (the CX-50 can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly configured).
## Driving Dynamics: A Mazda
