Verdict Mazda CX-50: The best steering I’ve felt this year, in one of my favorite SUVs. As an overall, reasonably priced package for enthusiasts who need an SUV, it doesn’t get much better than this.It’s gorgeous. “Zircon Sand Metallic” should either be called “Babyshit Brown” or just “Amazing Beige.”
The interior leather is just as nice.2.5T is the right engine for this - gruff when you need it (thanks to fake noise from the speakers) but silent when you don’t.Rides a huge wave of low-end torque for effortless acceleration — nothing up top. Limited to 5700 and it’s over before that. This is a daily-driver turbo setup: just 227 hp but 310 lb-ft.It’s quick and geared well, but AWD system allows wheelspin off the line before sending power rearward. Likely an MPG benefit but a real-world demerit.Ride is good (but 20” wheels mean harsh impacts.) Handling balance is great.
Rear seat is ok; cargo hold is enormous.Fabulous stereo, infotainment system would be great if it allowed touch-screen use while moving. It doesn’t and therefore sucks.
Brake pedal is wooden, but THE STEERING CHANGES EVERYTHING! This is genuinely the best steering I’ve felt all year: it crucifies a 911 GT3 in terms of on-center feedback.u/Porsche, u/BMW**, and every other brand that prides yourself on steering feel: go drive a CX-50 right now and take a lesson!**
It may border on “too heavy” for some, and it’s fairly slow (2.7 linear turns lock-to-lock) but it’s meaty with nonstop information from the front end. Never anything you don’t want (torque steer) but you know where the front wheels are at all times because you feel it. It’s magnificent.In other words, it’s a compact SUV that a dynamics snob could live with. And anyone with eyes would love to look at. Bravo, Mazda!
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