2024 Mazda CX-50 Meridian Edition Review

This week I bring you the 2024 Mazda CX-50 Meridian Edition. The two-row CX-50 was introduced in 2023,  billed as a "rugged and capable" crossover SUV. For 2024, CX-50 updates include new dampers and a recalibrated electric power-assist steering (EPAS) system.

Exterior

The Meridian Edition melds Mazda's stylish and sophisticated looks with refined ruggedness.  It rides on exclusive 18-inch black alloy wheels with all-terrain tires and is also equipped with a rear roof spoiler, black matte hood graphics, side rocker panels and large dual exhaust pipes with a bright finish.

 

 

 

 

 

Add to that my Zircon Sand Metallic test vehicle also sports an optional Apex Package with Meridian exclusive black crossbars, a roof platform and front and rear splashguards to protect it from the elements.  The Meridian Edition also boasts 8.6 inches of ground clearance.

The CX-50 is equipped with LED headlights and daytime running lights and tail lights, and power heated side mirrors.  The Meridian Edition adds Adaptive Front Lighting and LED combo tail lights with signature lighting.

Performance  

The Meridian Edition is powered by a 2.5-liter twin scroll turbocharger that delivers up to 256-horses and 320 pound-feet of toque when you fill up with Premium fuel.  Otherwise it drops to 227-hp and 310 lb.-ft. of torque when using regular unleaded.  The engine is mated to a 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters. All CX-50's are equipped with all-wheel drive. 

Interior

WOW, do I love the gorgeous two-toned Terracotta leather and black interior. It's simply sumptuous.  The leather looks and feels amazing.  Everything in the interior is excellently crafted as well from the contrast stitching on the dash, door panels and seats to the quality trim and impeccable fit and finish throughout.

 

 

 

The leather-trimmed seats power driver and passenger seats are just as comfortable as they look and look like they belong in a living room. They're both heated as well. 

The leather on the steering and gear shift knob wheel feels so smooth and looks terrific.   A slim glossy black center console is home to the gear shift and multi-function commander control along with Mi-Drive with Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing driving modes.

A panoramic sunroof is impressive in size, but with the Apex roof crossbars and platofrm on top you don't get its full effect.

 

 

The near-luxury feeling in the cabin extends to the 60/40 split rear seats.  The second-row is roomy when it comes to leg room but due to slight stadium seating, head room isn't fantastic.  The seats are comfy and cushiony but beware of a high middle floorboard.  Rear seat passengers enjoy a drop-down center console and their own A/C vents and USB ports. 

Standard features include wireless charging, automatic rain sensing wipers, dual zone climate and carpeted floor mats.

Utility

Open up the rear power lift gate and you're certain to be impressed with the CX-50's ample cargo space. In the cargo area, you find a second row seat release but there's no under storage due to the spare tire.

Technology

If you like flashy graphics and full digital displays,  the Mazda CX-50 likely won't dazzle you.  Mazda's tech is much more understated. A 7-inch TFT digital display is surrounded by two traditional analog dials.  

A 10.25 inch color non-touchscreen display with a rearview camera view sits back on the dash. The multimedia system, which is compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto, is controlled via a multi-function commander control on the center console.  I find it cumbersome to operate and am waiting for the day Mazda will give us something new.   This trim doesn't offer SiriusXM or Navigation.

The Meridian is equipped with an 8-speaker sound system. Connectivity features include 4 USB ports along with Mazda Connected Services.

Ride and Drive

The CX-50 delivers a great ride and drive. Both the handling and suspension feel amazing and you get great acceleration from the Turbo.   Steering feel is on the sporty side. It's a bit noisier than I'd like on the highway, but not so much as to be a deal breaker. 

Safety 

Safety Mazda driver assistance features include Lane Departure Warning system, Lane Keep Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Driver Attention Warning, Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Smart Brake Support and Emergency Lane Keeping with Road Keep Assist^.

What You'll Pay

Options include the paint ($450), and APEX package ($1,235). With options, the MSRP on this model is just shy of $44,000.

Verdict

The CX-50 Meridian blends Mazda's engaging driving dynamics and expert handling with the capability to head off the beaten path.  But I do wish it offered navigation and Mazda's premium sound system.