What are the main differences between the 2022 Mazda CX-5 and the 2022 Mazda CX-50

Slowly, Mazda is adding players to its lineup. The goal is to fill in some gaps, always with the objective of offering more to consumers with a given range. We saw this with the CX-30, which is positioned higher than the CX-3 in the family. As you might have guessed, it offers a little more in every aspect.

We find a very similar strategy with the CX-50, which joins the offer, alongside the CX-5, the brand's most popular model.

And what does the CX-50 offer that its little brother doesn't? Let's find out.

Arrival date

The CX-50 will hit dealerships in May as a 2023 model. It will be offered in four configurations: GS-L, GT, GT Turbo and Turbo Meridian (the latter is expected a little later).

Platform

The CX-50, although it will be seen as the cousin of the CX-5, will share its platform with the CX-30. It will be slightly bigger and more spacious than the CX-50. Most importantly, it will offer a more rugged, adventurous style, which will add a little something to the current lineup. It was designed for the North American market and the needs of its customers. It will be built at the jointly operated Mazda/Toyota plant in Huntsville, Alabama.

The CX-5 is assembled in Hiroshima, Japan.

Powertrains

Under the hood, two engines are expected, the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder that already powers the base CX-5. We're talking about 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. With the more packed models, the company's 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder will also be offered, which will deliver up to 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. These engines are also used in the CX-5, it should be noted.

Both engines are married to a six-speed automatic transmission that is a model of efficiency and reliability. All-wheel drive is standard.

The big difference will be the eventual arrival of a hybrid proposal, made possible by Toyota's partner. The CX-50 would inherit the solution that has served the Toyota RAV4 hybrid for several years. Note that this was not officially announced by Mazda at the time of the unveiling of the model's Canadian specifications. It's never a bad idea to look ahead, though.

Towing capacity

When it comes to towing, there's one major difference. The CX-5's towing capacity is set at 2,000 pounds, while a CX-50 equipped for towing will be able to tow up to 3,500 pounds. This is very interesting for those who like weekend getaways with their cottage hitched behind.

Modern

The CX-5's debut was in 2013. The 2018 update brought a lot of interesting new features, but the interior presentation remained the same, as did the multimedia system.

With the CX-50, we get the next generation Mazda Connect system, as well as an all-new dashboard design. For some, it may be a matter of taste between the old system and the new one. It's up to you, but note the marked difference between the two.

Finally, despite all their differences, one thing will be the same; the solidity of the ride and the pleasure behind the wheel. Therefore, whether you are interested in one model or the other, you are a winner in both cases.