2022 Mazda CX-50 debuts - CX-30's rugged, off-roading twin, SkyActiv engines

Mazda North American Operations today hosted the virtual world premiere of the new 2022 Mazda CX-50. The CX-50 is the first Mazda vehicle to be built at the new Mazda Toyota Manufacturing (MTM) plant in Huntsville, Alabama, with production beginning in January 2022. 

The MTM plant will also be rolling out the US-spec Toyota Corolla Cross. Despite that, the CX-50 will not share the TNGA underpinnings of the Corolla Cross, but employ a development of the CX-30's platform.

Also read: US-spec Toyota Corolla Cross will be built alongside Mazdas

What's new?

But first, the CX-50's exterior. It blends the brand’s striking Kodo design with an outdoor-capable presence. The sleek, long silhouette and wide stance that give the CX-50 dynamic proportions geared toward outdoor ruggedness. Whatever angle you look from, this is one handsome SUV, tinged with an underlying robust character. 

And it's not merely looks. The CX-50 features high-strength roof rails and reinforced b-pillars to add usability of securing equipment on the roof. 

Also read: You can put some things on the Proton X50's roof but its owner's manual says you shouldn't

As is the case with modern Mazdas, the interior of CX-50 is well-crafted and features a layout focused on the driver.  It  blends premium materials and details inspired by technical, modern outdoor gear for a sense of adventure.  A new panoramic moonroof complements the outdoors-inspired theme.

At launch, CX-50 will be available with the Skyactiv-G naturally aspirated 2.5-litre engine or Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre turbo engine. The sole transmission option for both engines is the six-speed automatic transmission.

The Mazda CX-50 will sport the latest i-Activ All-Wheel Drive (AWD) technology and new Mazda Intelligent Drive Select, or Mi-Drive. The new drive modes can be selected with the Mi-Drive switch and will help the CX-50 deal with a wide variety of conditions, such as off-road terrain towing.

In the coming years, the CX-50 will also be offered with electrified powertrains, including a traditional hybrid model, to be revealed at a later date. Already, Mazda has outlined plans to develop its own hybrid and electric powertrains, so sharing the Corolla Cross' Hybrid Synergy Drive set-up is unlikely. 

But will Malaysia get this one?

At the time of writing, the 2022 Mazda CX-50 will only be made available for sale in North America. Mazda has given no indication that the CX-50 will make it into markets outside of North America. Still, one can hope. 

Also read: 5 new SUVs confirmed - Mazda CX-50, CX-60, CX-70, CX-80, CX-90 starting 2022