Mazda CX-50 Revealed with Rugged Good Looks and an Optional Turbo

This is Mazda’s answer for the Subaru Outback.

Mazda has already made the most of its partnership. The 2022 Mazda CX-50 will be the first vehicle to be built in America at the joint Mazda Toyota Manufacturing Plant in Huntsville, Alabama. It features rugged styling and a handsome interior. There are two engine options.

The base CX-50’s 2.5-liter four-cylinder is naturally aspirated. A turbocharged 2.5 liter version is also available. The power figures will be disclosed at a later time. These engines are paired with a basic six speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive. Mazda claims that the CX-50 will soon be available in a hybrid and electrified versions.

Mazda’s standard iActiv all-wheel drive system includes a drive mode select feature, or Mi-Drive. This allows users to adjust the drive mode according to road conditions. Mazda lists specific modes such as Normal, Sport and Off-Road. However, the Mi-Drive switch can also be used for towing and other purposes.

The CX-50’s exterior retains the brand’s “Kodo” design language but has a fun outdoor feel. Black plastic cladding is used on the wheel arches, fascias and roof rails. This is typical of an adventure vehicle. The bumper’s grille now has thicker black accents, and more vents. Buyers can now choose a Zircon Sand exterior finish to match their rugged good looks.

The CX-50’s interior retains Mazda’s driver-focused layout. It also features high-end fixtures and materials. The seats have a “modern outdoor” look that is unique to the CX-50. They are available in Terracotta and feature a panoramic moonroof. Mazda has also added cubbies in the storage compartments to better suit outdoor enthusiasts.

Mazda has not yet released pricing information on the CX-50, but the production of the ruggedized crossover starts in 2022 and should be available for purchase sometime next year.