Mazda’s New Off-Roader: the CX-50

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 will offer an off-road package called the Meridian Edition. This package adds popular options like all-terrain tires and visual upgrades to make it look like an adventure vehicle. SUV buyers seem to appreciate models that at least look like they could hold their own off the pavement, which is why automakers are offering packages like this on popular models.

What’s in the Meridian Edition

For all intents and purposes, the CX-50 Meridian Edition is mostly an appearance package with no major mechanical changes. However, it’s a pretty cool appearance package that definitely does the job of making the CX-50 look like a stylish adventure vehicle. In other words, you will still have the same turbocharged engine and basic suspension that comes in the other CX-50
models.

However, you do get all-terrain tires on the Meridian Edition, and the visual cues offer a striking look. On top of the Meridian package, you can also add the Apex package. This extra set of options includes roof-rack crossbars, unique graphics, splash guards, and a roof platform. This goes even further in making the CX-50 look like an adventure vehicle.

Mazda CX-50 Specs

The Mazda CX-50 is essentially a more adventurous cousin of the CX-5 with higher ground clearance, better towing ability, and an off-road mode. The base trim of the CX-50 starts at $28,025 but obviously tops out at a lot more when you start adding options and getting to higher trims. The CX-50 does have some real capability compared to the CX-5, but a lot of what you’re getting is a more rugged look.

What the CX-50 does offer is a refined ride and a fun driving experience, especially when you opt for the 2.5-liter turbo engine. Nine inches of ground clearance doesn’t hurt when you need to go off the pavement, and its approach and departure angles aren’t bad either.

Is the CX-50 Good Off-Road?

That is the big question if you’re actually thinking about getting it based on a desire to go off-road. The verdict is that the CX-50 is not a true off-roader like a Jeep Wrangler, for example, but it can definitely handle light trails and some rough roads with or without the Meridian Edition.

The CX-50 Meridian Edition comes standard with AWD like every other model, but it’s not a different system from the AWD available in the rest of the models.

How does it actually perform? In real-world tests on light trails, the CX-50 exceeds expectations. A taut suspension and sharp control kept the body on track and not jouncing around on rutted roads. The CX-50’s off-road mode also helps the torque split with AWD.

While it may not be the go-anywhere type of off-road SUV, the CX-50 does offer a comfortable ride, and is decent off-pavement, and the CX-50 Meridian Edition with the 2.5 Turbo engine starts at just under $40,000. Mazda’s new off-road SUV should be at a Mazda dealer near you.