Is the 2023 Mazda CX-50 Meridian Edition a better SUV than a Subaru Outback?
Вставка
- Опубліковано 26 жов 2022
- The NEW CX-50 Turbo Meridian Edition is an SUV from Mazda that competes with the Subaru Forester Wilderness, Outback Wilderness, Hyundai Tucson XRT, and Kia Sportage X-Pro. On the outside there are special 18in wheels with off-road tires, unique front fascia and anti-glare strips. On the inside you will be greeted by a premium level interior. Under the hood is a 2.5L turbocharged inline-4 that produces 256HP & is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Is the 2023 Mazda CX-50 Meridian Edition a better SUV than a Subaru Outback?
**Please click the link to get your Raiti's Rides Merch!
shop.spreadshirt.com/raitisri...
videography: Lori Raiti 🎥 - Авто та транспорт
Don't ZONK the fake vents-- that'a a perfect spot to put my rocket launchers, machine guns and oil slick squirter etc... :)
The CX-50 is the best looking car in this segment. I was at a Mazda dealership recently and I couldn't get over how great this car looks in person.
Great review Joe. I've been a Mazda driver and Raiti's Rides fan for a long time now. This CX-50 is really growing on me. Especially the Meridian Edition. Wow, a lot to think about. Great review as always, Joe and Lori are the best in the business.
I've been looking for a car lately but I haven't been drawn to any brands that just have that uniqueness to them, and I completely forgot about mazda it's like this video was heaven sent thx joe!
It was meant to be John!
Great job Joe and Lori! I really like the CX-50 for some reason. I wonder how it would look a little lifted for more off-road goodness.
This Meridian Edition looks pretty good, especially the interior. It is a great option for daily driving.
You are so right Omar
Wonder if there is an upgrade option to replace it with metal trim. Plastic trim really is all about cost-cutting. No other excuse. It doesn't look good at all.
Meridian is not even isn’t like it’s a line. Anyway, this vehicle is a Mazda 626 from 1980.
@@nicotri9722 No, I have looked at these and they all have the plastic cladding.
Drove this car yesterday from the dealership and absolutely loved it. Car has plenty of power and handles well. Lots of reviews said that the steering felt heavy especially at lower speeds…I found that to not be true, the car’s steering is as light if not lighter than my ‘17 Accord. Also, rear headroom isn’t as ample as advertised. I’m 6’ and the entire top of my head was touching the ceiling. Joe mentioned in another cx50 vid that he’s 6’ and that he had plenty of room…so I’m not sure about that. Kind of didn’t like the distance between the armrest and the speedstick but that’s minor. Otherwise this car is seriously on my radar for my next car!
Nice review. Thank you, Joe!
Thanks for the Videos very informative has helped me greatly in my car shopping.
That really means a lot Leah!
Nice rig! Nice review! … I’ve got a CX-30 and when the time comes, this could be in my driveway for sure? …
Us Canadians up North get the Meridian Edition trim fully loaded. Basically the Turbo Premium Plus with the Meridian Package. Speaking as a proud owner of one of the first Meridians in Canada. Great review as always Joe!
Yep, all of his zonks we have on our Meridian. 360 cam, heads up display, etc. 😂
@@AmyI sucks that the Canadian folks get better options when this vehicle was made here in the states and it gets less options 😢
@YankeeJr What's your review after 3 months??
@@judahnanas9772 unfortunately, I’ve only got to drive the car for about two weeks, for the last four months my car has been in the shop. I got sideswiped by a bus and the entire front had to get replaced, including the hood. I’m quite disappointed with Mazda because I had to track down all the parts myself had to constantly calling to the Mazda headquarters in Canada to get an update on the parts. The Meridian specific headlight garnish, got discontinued a few months back, and there was no update on whether or not my vehicle is going to be repaired or not because that part was necessary for my vehicle to be driveable again. Even though the new Meridian vehicles don’t have the garnish anymore. The reply from Mazda lacked empathy and the rep that I was forced to deal with was quite rude and not understanding of the situation. But other than that, I don’t really have anything to say yet. Happy to hopefully get the car back soon.🥺
You guys must have better roads and weather down there in Canada. Up here in Alaska, it would be suicide to drive these on ice covered mountain roads in winter.
We just bought this car and we love it
The styling of this meridian edition is 🔥 i like this a lot Joe
Nice, been waiting for a Meridian to arrive at our location.
Looks stylish and I might get one when it hits the Sydney roads. I did get a MX30 few months ago which got few of these modern design concepts which looks sexy 😊
The Subaru Outback wilderness does have the turbo with the 260 hp
Mazda does make fantastic cars inside and out however I feel that you’re not comparing it the proper vehicle. From everything you have mentioned it’s basically a regular suv with some off-road tires thrown on it. The Subaru Outback Wilderness is an entirely different vehicle for many reasons.
Great review though. Very well done!
Agreed. I was excited to get a meridian until I found out it was just wheels/tires and appearance. Nothing newly functional.
Now I don't want it 🥺
Thank you so much for showing off the Apple carplay integration on this video, it's something I feel is always missing when you go over the technology in these cars :)
Hi Joe, I watch most of your reviews and decided to try CX-50 after watching your previous reviews about it. Now its been one month since I got my CX-50 Turbo Premium. 1400 miles. Strong and sturdy. Drives super cool and faster than any other cars in this category. Like the style, inerior and Bose 12 speaker music system is awesome.
slightly stiffy ride, brake's perfrmance need to improve. gas mileage never went above 18.5 in city with 93 octane gas.
This is my first Mazda and I really liked it and enjoy driving it.
Keep doing your great job Joe .Good luck.
If this requires premium gas.. it’s a no go for me.
@@XX-166 you can use both. Premium gives you 256 hp while regular gives 227hp.
Hello christian brother I am Hindu. What company Audio system it has?? 93 octane is needed? EXPENSIVE TO RUN
I really love my CX-50 PFP. There's already a 2" suspension lift available! Planning on switching tires to Nitto Nomad Grapplers (245/65/17) and the lift (though the Grapplers at that size can fit without a lift with clearance and wheel gap). Can't wait to see the aftermarket parts for the 50s.
just watched a video showing that factory lift applied to a CX-5 and thought it would look better on the CX-50!
This is very close to being on my buy list. Waiting on those CX 60 & 90s to hit.
"... a biscuit and a bottle of gravy to wash it down." LMAO!! "Gravy", you mean, liquid heart attack. Your reviews are the best, Joe.
Pine cones…should be a new standard in measuring volume. 😂😂😂 Great review!
Yay for hood struts! This thing looks awesome! CVT BAD! The Outback Wilderness has a 2.4 Turbo shared with the WRX, right? It has 260 HP.
Hey Joe! Does this thing have pumped in audio? Wasn't sure based on the video a while ago. Great video as always! Thank you!
Yes it does.
@@georgecarafa5208 thats so sad
Mazda always has such awesome interiors. Love, love, love it!
I’m so glad that I can bring it to you
Joe, love the look and colour. Wireless charging should be standard. It is an optional add-on though (in Canada). Love the quality of the materials and the soft touch. Also, it's not plastic fantastic especially the gloss black type. Surprisingly quiet ride even with the aggressive tires.
I’m glad that you are digging this one.
@@RaitisRides The Premium Plus has everything the Meridian Edition is missing.
@@jascadet even the turbo premium has a few more goodies than the Meridian edition
The wireless charger is under the center console armrest not under the A/C controls. He missed that when talking about twinkies.
Not in Canada, it comes fully loaded AND unlimited kilometre warranties for 3 and 5 years.
I love it Joe and Lori and keep up the great work real true 👍 and I love the video lot real true 💯
**Thanks for watching☝️☝️ Inbox me directly.. We are having a giveaway session 📩🆙🎁***..
"I don't like that threes no head up display, but im glad theres no CVT"🤷Whaaaa?😆Ok!
I love the fact the CX50 has enough room for 6 pine cones and 2 gallons of chocolate mike. Well done.
Wow Joe, I never knew Mazda started out making cork, you never mentioned it in any of your previous Mazda videos. Great info again!
Who new that Mazda was a bunch of cork soakers?!
Joey Thomas Ball: replace the plastic cladding with dark chrome at once. MUAHAHAHAH
If I want to do some mild off-roading in this thing I would get some 17s with a thicker sidewall.
I’m not a fan of the short roof height. Give me head room over style. I will stick with my cx7 and later a cx5 for headroom
Damn only 4 pinecones, I need store at least 5 pinecones.
Is this the platform for the upcoming Mazda 6. Is this above the CX-5?
Had an ND Miata club, but traded it for a 22 Supra this year. Still rooting for them though! They make great cars that punch above their weight class.
Loved the Mazda history at the start of the video.
Mazda makes a fantastic product. I know that as with any manufacturer, with a first year model vehicle especially this early it can have issues. In my opinion it is simply the adjustment period between the Hiroshima production line and the US production line; once they dial in the true perfection of production they are known for these new models will be a truly great rival to its competitors. I know the quality Mazda is capable of achieving and it will continue to punch far above its class. Loved the thorough review sir. Thanks!
Hey Joe, I test drove one of these. The wireless charger is just behind the controller for the infotainment (under the front of the console doors). It did not fit my bigger Samsung phone with case however. They do have a 360 camera too. The one I drove had a head up display also. I drove a Turbo Premium Plus. Looks like the Meridian is a lower package and does not include these features. (The CX-50 was a little small for me, and I did not like the turbo lag).
Oh wow that is crazy!
Oh Snap! Raiti's Rides has to do a Review of that one..
Oh Snap! Raiti's Rides has to do a Review of that one
I haven't noticed the turbo lag?
@@Montana270 Cominf from a twin turbo 535i xdrive, I guess it was more noticeable for me. I previously had a CX-7 and it was noticeable in that one also.
Joe! I am a huge fan of this Polymetal Gray Metallic on this CX-50 Turbo! It looks amazing! The gray and the black are like peanut butter and jelly because they go together perfectly. Just a friendly reminder, if you want to get the full 227 horsepower, you have to put 92 Octane into the CX-50 for the full effect. You can also use regular 87 gasoline, but that will only get you up to 181 horsepower. My favorite Mazdas are the CX5 (as normal, gasoline and the recently discontinued diesel), the Mazda 3 (as normal and Turbo with AWD) and the MX-5 Miata.
Interesting, as I see more of this poly-metal gray on the road it looks a lot more darker in person than it does in pictures and videos
wrong. you get 256hp with 93 and 227hp with 87.
FOUR pinecones in the center console??! Hell yeah! I'm sold
Now we are talking!
Wanted to buy this so bad. Test drove it yesterday. Visibility out the back was just not enough for me. Going to stick with my cx5 and put some new wheels and tires on it!
does it have any underbody protection?
Mazda at it again and Joe and Lori are here to bring it to us!!! I love these rigs!!! Not q fan of the humongous fake vents though. But overall a decent package!!! Awesome review y'all!!!
You always have fair good comments Mario.
Where's the fake vents?
Did Mazda change the torsion beam and consider to assemble some CX-50 in Japan factory?
Joe at 9:45 you INCORRECTLY said the Outback Wilderness DOESN'T have a turbo! My friend it DOES and it has MORE H. P 260 than the cx-50! And the Outback Wilderness runs that 260 H. P on REGULAR GAS! Unlike the Mazda which loses appropriately 10% of it's H. P on regular gas. I'm REALLY surprised you misspoke about the Outback Wilderness. Yes I pay attention to your video's.
What kind of speakers does it have I don’t think you mentioned that.
I just picked up a CX-50 Turbo premium plus earlier this week. Liking it a lot so far. Few things I dislike. The key. Feels so cheap. Also, the premium plus comes with 20” wheels so the turning at low speeds feels very heavy. I wish it had a digital gauge cluster to give it a more premium feel. Other than that, it’s a great car so far.
Tested the pinecone collection and you're right on. The sunny Ds bottles fit just fine🍼 😎
Mazda CX-50 is very good looking. I test drove in July twice. Looks are superficial though and I’m disappointed hearing about the cost cuts for rear suspension. Also I’m shocked the CX-50 doesn’t have fog lights! I know the CX-50 looks better than Subaru Outback (wilderness) but I think OBW is more robust.
Good looking vehicle but at 40k the better connectivity wireless charging need to be standard and outside the decals on the hood I don't know what the "Meridian" upgrades are??
Mazda has some of the highest quality interiors in the industry. Love the traditional analog gauges also.
I'm not a fan of the styling of Mazda crossovers, but even I must admit that this particular one looks kinda cool.
The Outback Wilderness actually comes with the 2.4 turbo with 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, which is on par with the CX-50. I recently cross shopped this against the Outback Onyx XT which I think is a closer competitor, since the Wilderness has way more off-road capability than the CX-50. Ultimately, I ordered an Outback Onyx XT because I love the 2.4 turbo engine, large practical interior and top notch AWD system. That said, I will always have a soft spot for Mazda. I've owned 3 of them over the years and I plan to purchase a Miata within the next couple years.
CVT is the problem for me on Subaru.
@@kurtwl Coming from driving manuals for decades, I felt the same way until I actually drove the Outback. Based on my research, Subaru's CVT is actually quite good, the best in the industry according to many owners. I've had it for about 3 weeks and it drives great, actually feels very similar to a torque converter automatic. As far as reliability goes, not mindlessly abusing it and regularly changing the fluid are the keys to CVT longevity. In any case, I'm not worried.
@@dlg5485 I’m test driving the wilderness model tmrw. I want to like it and hopefully I do. I’ve had a RAV4 hybrid on order for over 6 months and now they said could be 9 more months. Have to find something else.
@Kurt Loun You do not have a Rav4 Hybrid "on order." Toyota does not offer an ordering process for consumers or for dealers. That is why it has taken so long. You gave a dealer a deposit & they are crossing their fingers hoping that they get an allocation for the exact Rav4 Hybrid that you want. They cannot give you an actual time frame because it's not possible, since there's no way to order the car.
@@sawyermartin4434 you may stand correct but I did have an actual build vin#. Nonetheless I purchase a Outback Wilderness and Love it! Canceled my Rav4 order.
Hows that stiching in the middle of the seat.I keep hearing from other reviewers that it feels like you have a G string on lol.
Hey joe, I have a zircon sand premium plus, comes with wireless charger that actually sucks, but it has it and also 360 camera and power folding side mirrors and cooled seats with rear heated seats 42k msrp
And a heads up display with sign/speed recognition *
Love the look! Mazda builds the best vehicles in my opinion.
Great review Joe. Thank you.
It’s crazy and I know the two vehicles I was considering are two totally different segments. But I was almost sold on an Acura TLX but the lack of space (especially in the rear seats) bothered me a lot, as much as I’ve wanted to own an Acura. 😫
But then I saw this video while doing research on a CX-90 and decided to test drive it. And while I could tell it wasn’t AS fast, it wasn’t a major difference, plus I’ve also wanted to finally try a new Japanese manufacturer since I’ve only owned Nissans and Hondas so far. It turns out this vehicle gave me almost as much the driving experience as the TLX. That combined with that panoramic roof, those nice seats and extra space pretty much has me sold on this being my next vehicle in a few months.
I’m completely satisfied and loving my Mazda CX-50 GT Turbo.
Man that is a beautiful suv.
They should have done the headliner in black like the CX-5 Turbo and Signature. Can’t unsee the brown plus. black plus tan interior.
That’s a must in my book
Does the meridian edition have power folding mirrors upon locking or unlocking the vehicle?
That is a great question!
Hi Joe, I watched a lot of your videos and I thing I am kinda confused was why you put so much hate to CVT transmission? whta's wrong with CVTs?
Powered by a rubber band that'll snap at anyday. No thanks.
I have been a Toyota & Lexus guy my whole life with the exception of the older Honda’s which were also very reliable. My “new” Toyota’s/Lexus’s have been; 2005 Toyota Matrix, 2011 Toyota Venza and now a 2022 Lexus RX350. I tried a new 2016 Mazda CX-5 and we still have that car today. Aside from replacing brakes, tires and a battery…. the only other thing that has been replaced is the headlights which were done free of charge due to a recall. One of those headlights is being changed out next week for free…. 8 years after the car was purchased! The reliability and repair bills have been every bit as good as Toyota & Lexus…. if not better! I am looking to swap out our CX-5 in the next 2 years and was going to buy another RX350 but with the new CX-70 coming out next year… I decided to hold out. The resale value on our CX-5 is awesome as well. I paid $38,000 cad for it back in 2015 and they are selling for around $20,000 cad right now… 8 years later!
Let me tell you something about those rear wipers that are tucked up in the rear spoiler. You get an upside down half circle view out in the back. It’s not as visibly useful as a right side up semi circle view that you get with the traditionally mounted wipers.
I have it in my 2010 RX but I feel like it covers a good portion of the back windshield
I honestly feel that with this vehicle having a conventional automatic transmission makes it much better, and that’s coming from an outback owner with a CVT. Plus that vehicle looks absolutely amazing in person
I like the black cladding, it's real boss
I'm debating between the Forester Wilderness, Rav4 TRD, and this. I want something a little more capable for some light camping events, but also able to tow a few motorcycles around. Around 3000lbs is just about right. But at the same time I wanted to keep it close to 30mpg.
I do like the looks of the Mazda, and the overall balance for more on road since I'll probably be on road majority of the time. I just need it to absolutely do the 1% when I need it.
It is a little disappointing that the Meridian edition is just cosmetic with different wheels and tires. I thought about a regular turbo CX50 but I hate those 20 inch wheels and its actually more expensive than the Meridian edition. It would be nice to see a retuned suspension, a bit higher, even a skid plate or so.
From what I've seen on the Wilderness its actually has different suspension, raised height, underbody protection, oil coolers, different final drive.
Only 3 vehicles have ticked the checkbox for what I'm specifically looking for.
The Subaru Wilderness, The CX50 Meridian, and the Rav4 TRD Off Road or Adventure.
In the perfect world, I would find a SUV with the capabilities of the Subaru, the reliability of the Rav4, and the looks of the CX50.
Drove all 3 of those before I bought the cx-50. Forrester Wilderness is quite spacious and has great suspension but really lacks power. The RAV4 TRD/adventure gets better gas mileage but doesn't excel in any way beyond that, and the cx-50 has by far best handling and feels the most capable on the road. Did not drive an OBW but I know driving a friend's outback how frustrating the touch screen can be.
From my perspective, unless you really need the the extra ground clearance and/or storage space of the OBW, the CX-50 is the clear choice. Within reason, all these vehicles should all be capable enough off-road. The RAV4 only makes sense if your daily community includes long stretches of highway.
If you are planning to tow, the CX-50 is also the clear winner. No CVT, highest torque, a dedicated towing mode, and the factory hitch is the only one with a 7-pin.
@@crispy4444 I've been leaning more and more toward the CX50. I heard that Mazda is supposed to come out with a hybrid variant at some point. Its only been shown at the auto show in China, and it was supposed to be a launch this year before delays. Supposed to use Toyota's Hybrid engine which is welcoming because its been pretty reliable.
As nice at the RAV's are, the dealerships here for them are about as awful as you can get.
Bad enough that I may pass on Toyota for the rest of my life, and tell everyone I ever speak to, to do the same. No human being should be treated as poorly as customers are at a Toyota dealership.
Great work you two, this suv is promising.
Twinkies and chocolate milk,mmmm yum yum!😊😊
Gotta have the snacks
@@RaitisRides mhmm always got to be prepared for a snack jackpot filled party.
Good job but, should show sticker and ground clearence.
Do the smaller wheels make for a more quiet and comfortable ride than the 20" on the TPP trim?
Yes and yes. I test drove the TPP and it was horrible. Seats and ride were super harsh.Test drove the Meridian and felt like a completely different car, so I bought one!
"Four medium-sized pinecones." 😂
I bought mine 2 weeks ago and man I love it, the way it looks the way it drives. I get compliments every where I go. The only issue is I wish it had a bigger tank it only gives 280 miles on full tank. But other than that it’s the best car I ever owned
Did you go with the turbo or base engine?
@@atlbirdfan6959 the 2.5turbo it’s pretty quick too
@@abanoubbeshara1101 appreciate the reply. I plan on test driving one soon
@@atlbirdfan6959 any time you will love it
Does anyone know how the cargo floor size, with the back seats down, compares with the Subaru Outback, I've seen where the volume size is significantly more in the Outback but what seems more important is the floor size.
You get 31 cubic ft with the seats upright and when it's folded it's 56.4.
Perfect match!
I still didn't see what's diff from the regular cx50 and meridian cx50.
Subaru are safe cars they have had their share of issues. The CX-50 is a good looking SUV would go with Mazda they have some good looking cars, fun to drive and worth the amenities the exterior color is nice goes along with the factory wheels.
I’m glad you are liking this one!
So far on the cx50, I've had a lot of battery issues, 2x cases of the front shock leaking, and premature wear on the stitching (going down the middle of the seat), jeans tear the stitches. I'm hoping most of these are addressed by the time the meridian edition is available to purchase.
The center stitch is also quite annoying, you really feel it between your butt =(
Duuuuuude I want one of those so bad!!!!!!
I liked how the car drove when I tested the CX-50 out but it felt really cramped. I also thought many of the parts inside seemed cheap and not sturdy (glove box, door panels). We ended up going with an Outback Wilderness instead.
I'm debating a CX-50 Turbo PP vs an Outback Wilderness right now. I'm really bummed on the all touch interface in the Outback though. It seems really lack luster. Reminds me of a gas station ATM kiosk. If I get the CX-50 I'll put 18inch wheels on, but still may go with the OW because of the ride and automated driving.
@UCEd5QEaoipE-yHi0TInt5Ig The infotainment system on the OBW sucks. I was talking to someone at Suburu who said that there will be more over the air software updates next year to help make things better but I don't know how much better they will be able to make it. It's the one thing about the car that I really do not like.
@@arress2052 But you wouldn't change your decision?
@@eniac78 Nope.
@@eniac78 Subarus aren’t very comfortable although I haven’t sat in a 2023 outback
Waiting for your CX-60 review!
My first Mazda SUV!! Amazing video Joe.
You will love this one Jeremiah!
Enjoy it, I also switched to mazda after driving toyotas for years. Never going back!
Nice. It would be cool to tell us about the stereo .
For anyone wondering you can only get the outback wilderness in the 2.4L turbo flat 4.
It seems to handle well, but is it fun, or did they over-refine it? Like the Mazda 3 Turbo Hatch is so refined it feels like a video game rather than a car.
Meridian. Hmm. Is this the new Carbon? I'm interested in that cx60 and 70 coming up. Well, I will be in 3vyears when the lease is up.
This car looks great in person
The paint color is amazing! Unfortunately the black cladding...I gotta zonk it. Good lookin' ride, Mr. Raiti.
Good balance with your comment David.
You had me at zonk😛😂😛😂
My friends find it weird that my cx5 isnt a touch screen and then they get suprised becuz i can navigate the infotainment without looking at the screen haha
That’s really cool Monica
Nice review but heads up Outback Wilderness does have a Turbo
Hi love the videos
I am glad that I can share them with you
I have a great respect for Mazda brand. Was really impressed with the quality of 2020 CX-5💥💥💥
I also believe chocolate milk comes from brown cows. Science!!!
Thanks!
I appreciate your extra support!
The wireless charging is in front of the center console under the lid.
Hey Joe does it require premium or is regular acceptable?
Both. Premium will give you 256HP while Regular will give only 227 HP.
You do realize the Outback Wilderness is a 2.4l turbocharged Boxer 4. It's not naturally aspirated as you mention.
Do you mean Forester Wilderness when you say Outback Wilderness? Based on the N/A versus Turbo comment, I'm thinking you were thinking Forester the whole time. :)
It's nice looking but I would want the black around the wheel arches color matching, would look way better, imo.
I can understand where you are coming from.
YOUS want want what YOUS can’t have.
Planning to trade my CX5 to a CX50. But after watching RatiRides video about the CX50, I'll keep my CX5.
Good review but all of us golfers would like to see how our bag of clubs fit in the cargo area.
I own the cx30 and let me tell you I can't wait to move up to the cx50. 10 more payment and the cx50 is mines