CAR REVIEW: 2024 Mazda CX-50 is the Boring Compact SUV Antidote

If I have one qualm with the mainstream compact SUV segment — and considering it’s part of my job to criticize, I have many — it’s a lack of personality. Yes, pragmaticism, value and features are critical in the small SUV segment, but too often these come at the sacrifice of character and fun. Yes, I’m rapidly approaching middle age and I have a family to haul, but that shouldn’t mean I can’t have any driving excitement in my life. And that’s why I appreciate the 2024 Mazda CX-50, particularly models fitted with the available turbocharged engine.  

The 2.5-liter turbo four cranks out 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium fuel. That’s far more grunt than the 187 ponies and 186 pound-feet in the standard model, and the added power is apparent from behind the wheel. Coupled with a reactive six-speed transmission, the turbocharged powerplant delivers ample acceleration at any speed. Zero to 60 takes a bit over seven seconds, making it among the quickest in its class, but more impressive is the CX-50’s ability to quickly muster the gusto to pass on the highway or let the engine stretch its legs on a bit of twisty tarmac.