The 2022 Mazda CX-50 has been revealed ahead of its debut at this week’s Los Angeles Auto Show with a new design, new features to the Mazda range and for the first time in a recent Mazda SUV, a real adventure focus like some US-specific versions of the Subaru Outback and Forester. For now, the CX-50 is not destined for Australian sales as it’s built solely in left-hand drive and in Mazda’s new US plant in Alabama, though we think that could change in the future.
“This new Mazda vehicle has been developed for North America, particularly to support the active and outdoor lifestyles of customers in this region,” Jeff Guyton, President and CEO of Mazda North American Operations said.
“The CX-50 encourages people to immerse themselves in nature without compromising on the premium design and outstanding on-road performance Mazda is known for.”
Based on the same platform as the CX-30 and Mazda3, the CX-50 will sit alongside the CX-5 in North America as a more premium option in the Mazda range.
Compared with previous recent Mazda SUVs, the CX-50 appears to have a more off-road focus with standard all-wheel drive, and a new feature called ‘Mi-Drive’, which is a drive mode selector that drivers can use to toggle through normal, sport and off-road modes. The off-road mode is believed to be similar to the CX-5’s off-road mode, where the car’s electronics aid its off-road ability.
The styling of the CX-50 is almost more rugged than its siblings with a wider stance, ‘high-strength’ roof rails, off-road decals and bumpers and even skid plates for protection for venturing off the beaten track. In North America, a wide range of off-road dealer-fit accessories will also be available, while buyers will also be able to choose from a more city-focused look with larger wheels and more conventional bumpers.
The cabin of the 2022 Mazda CX-50 follows recent Mazda products with a decidedly premium look, though this time around it features bolder styling for a more rugged look. Full details are yet to be revealed but Mazda’s 8.8-inch infotainment screen with Mazda Connect features atop the dashboard, while ahead of the driver lies similar dials to the CX-30. For the first time, Mazda is offering tan leather upholstery, as well as a panoramic sunroof – current Mazda models only feature small sunroofs.
Mazda is yet to release details about the CX-50’s practicality, though the rear seat appears to be well featured with air vents, heated seats and charging ports for passengers – it also looks to be roomier than the CX-5 as well.
Under the bonnet of the 2022 Mazda CX-50 is Mazda’s 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine in either 139kW/252Nm naturally aspirated or 170kW/420Nm turbocharged forms. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard, as is all-wheel drive.
Mazda has confirmed that Australia won’t see the 2022 Mazda CX-50 initially thanks to its North American production sourcing and that it’s to be made only in left-hand drive. We think that may change in the future as the CX-50 name is likely to replace the CX-5 name, so stay tuned to DiscoverAuto for the latest automotive news and reviews.
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