What is it?
The CX-50 is Mazda's North-American-built medium SUV, repositioned for Australia as the rugged stablemate to the CX-5. It sits on a different platform to the CX-5, with more ground clearance, a wider track and the most off-road-leaning Mazda design in years. Two powertrains, all AWD, from $43,990 to $58,990 plus on-roads.
The lineup runs from G25 Pure AWD at $43,990 plus on-roads, through to Hybrid Azami AWD at $58,990 plus on-roads. Warranty cover sits at 5 years, unlimited km.
Interior and Technology
AWD standard across the range, no FWD compromise. Hybrid uses Toyota's proven 2.5L HEV system for 5.1 L/100 km combined. 5-star ANCAP under the 2024 protocol. Higher ground clearance than CX-5 for light off-road and fire trails.
Towing capped at 1,500 kg braked, below Forester and RAV4 at 1,800 kg. G25 six-speed auto feels behind class on highway efficiency. 410 L boot trails CX-5 (438 L) and Forester (484 L). Range overlap with CX-5 muddies the Mazda showroom decision.
Should you buy the CX-50?
Reasons to buy
- AWD standard across the range, no FWD compromise. Hybrid uses Toyota's proven 2.5L HEV system for 5.1 L/100 km combined. 5-star ANCAP under the 2024 protocol. Higher ground clearance than CX-5 for light off-road and fire trails.
- Warranty: 5 years, unlimited km (8 years hybrid battery).
- 5-star ANCAP (2024), full driver-assist suite.
- 410 L (1,452 L folded) boot, segment-competitive cargo space.
- Braked towing rated at 1,500 kg.
Reasons to wait
- Towing capped at 1,500 kg braked, below Forester and RAV4 at 1,800 kg. G25 six-speed auto feels behind class on highway efficiency. 410 L boot trails CX-5 (438 L) and Forester (484 L). Range overlap with CX-5 muddies the Mazda showroom decision.
- You tow more than 1,500 kg braked (Forester and RAV4 are rated higher), you want a bigger boot (CX-5 and Forester have more litres), or you want to avoid the showroom overlap with the cheaper Mazda CX-5.
- The Hybrid is the pick of the range, using the same Toyota powertrain as the RAV4 with the Mazda finish on top. For buyers who want an SUV that looks like it could leave the city but mostly will not, the Hybrid Touring is the sweet spot.
- Top trim climbs to $58,990 plus on-roads.
CarTell.tv review of the Mazda CX-50 is coming. Subscribe on YouTube and you will be first to see it.
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