Kit Car Magazine

Mazda product updates are said to be slow. After CX-50 model was unveiled at Guangzhou Auto Show last year, latest CX-50 model was unveiled at Shanghai Auto Show this year. As Mazda's highest positioned model at present, CX-50 can be seen as materialized model of Mazda's automotive concept into a new age of curiosity.

The Mazda CX-50 has a strong Mazda vibe in look, although it doesn't use iconic soul red color or feel will be stronger. Like a new era Mazda, CX-50 hasn't changed much in its design style and you can still recognize it as a Mazda model at a glance.

Of course, that doesn't mean it doesn't have fresh elements. On contrary, all designs of this model are completely new, including enlarged central grille, chrome material and lattice structure. Initially, it was a luxury. car. The design is higher, but on CX-50 it makes no sense to violate it.

The lateral lines of CX-50 are relatively sleek and overall processing method is relatively conventional, enhancing slim feel. The detailing can be described as appropriate, door handle has a traditional shape, and absence of a chrome trim is a plus.

The design changes at rear are more obvious, with thin LED strip still mostly circular in shape, with turn signals and reversing lights positioned in middle. Due to good length of LED rear lights, it has non-inferior and through rear lights after illumination.

The interior is not shown. Referring to foreign version of model, CX-50 has achieved its own promotional goals to a certain extent, so that interior has a better luxurious atmosphere and texture. Personally, I especially like materials used in interior: a lot of leather packages are combined with dark decorative panels, which gives cabin a strong sporty flair and good texture.

The simple design makes entire interior feel tech-infused, proving that it's not just big screen and lack of physical buttons that can create a tech feel. Where you can see it, design is traditional, but it has enough tech elements, like a full-fledged traditional-style LCD instrument panel and a comfortable-grip gear lever are all masterpieces in this regard.

In terms of power, it's relatively flat. Compared to higher-end rear-wheel drive platform, new CX-50 has not been upgraded with a more powerful powertrain. It is still equipped with 2.0L/2.5L. naturally aspirated engines at an early stage, it is mated with a 6-speed automatic transmission, and some models can also opt for an all-wheel drive system. The real highlight is 2.5L HEV model, which is expected to make a breakthrough in terms of power and economy.

Overview

Mazda CX-50 is a model worthy of close attention, but at same time incompatible with today's mainstream. Traditional exterior design may not grab attention first time. It still uses current CX-5's power system. It's no doubt a risky approach. Today, it still uses natural supercharging as its primary power, and it's fitted with a relatively old 6AT gearbox that really isn't very appealing to consumers. Of course, this won't be Mazda's trump card. The 2.5L HEV is latest technological manifestation, and a rear-wheel-drive platform model hasn't arrived yet. Perhaps that's Mazda's real strength at this stage.