Mazda might like active, outdoorsy buyers to think of the rugged-looking CX-50 as an alternative to the Ford Bronco Sport or Subaru Outback. We say ignore the marketing hype about off-road excursions, and instead focus on the CX-50’s sporty on-road handling, upscale cabin, and comfortable seats, because it’s in those areas that it excels when viewed against other small SUVs. Unfortunately, acceleration is on the slow side for the class with the base engine, the transmission suffers from some bumpy shifts, and the infotainment system is frustrating to use.
Based on the platform of the CX-30, the CX-50 slots between Mazda’s CX-5 and CX-9 SUVs sizewise. The CX-50, which comes standard with all-wheel drive, is longer and wider than the CX-5, and has both more ground clearance and a lower roof height. The latter allows adventure-focused buyers to more easily install and access roof racks and baskets.