The 2023 CX-50, Mazda’s all-new crossover SUV, has captivating exterior styling, and its finely crafted cabin is exceedingly inviting for all occupants. That’s impressive. But a week-long CX-50 test drive added substance to the visual take-aways. CX-50 provided this driver with snappy power, firm brakes, and great sight lines. For riders, the panoramic moonroof — a first for the Mazda brand — provided spectacular overhead views. Driver and passengers had ample legroom, nearly 42 inches for front seat occupants and just shy of 40 inches for rear seat riders. The CX-50 is the first Mazda vehicle produced at the Mazda Toyota Manufacturing plant in Huntsville, Alabama.

Powering the tested CX-50 was the 2.5-liter Skyactiv twin-scroll turbocharged 4-cylinder producing 227 horsepower and 310 torque on regular 87 octane gasoline. That horsepower increases to 256 and torque bumps to 320 with premium octane gasoline. CX-50 also offers a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter Shyactiv 4-cylinder with 187 horsepower and 186 torque. Both engines mate to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Cargo space, while not wildly huge, is quite sufficient at 31.4 cubic feet with rear seat upright and 56.3 cubic feet with second row seat folded. The tested 110.8-inch wheelbase CX-50 with premium plus package and AWD carries a MSRP of $42,300 and estimated MPG of 23 city and 29 highway.