I used to own a 2017 Mazda 6 and absolutely loved it. I was immediately impressed with the build quality. I came from a Civic. One of the first things I noticed was the exterior window moldings weren’t all misaligned like the Civic. The doors sounded and felt nice. The shifter and clutch felt really engaging which was a surprise for a big family sedan.
David, You know all about the ins and outs of auto production, how can Toyota be supplying RAV4 hybrid components to Mazda when they cannot keep up with demand for their own RAV4 Hybrid? 🤨
Hello David! First time viewer ... what a great review! Definitely a new subscriber now. Currently driving a 2010 RAV4 Ltd. V6 that is going to turn 300K this week. It's been a great vehicle but I know it's not going to last forever, so this now might be on the top of the replacement list! Best Regards, David from Oshawa
Agreed. People equate touching as more intuitive and modern. When really, if you give that dial a chance it's actually more efficient once you get the muscle memory down.
Absolutely agree withe wheel its so much more efficient especially while driving. Touching screen would be annoying while driving such large suv. I love my cx90 as well
I've been researching this car a lot. I've driven the non hybrid versions. The turbo had terrible road noise. I feel it was the tires. The seats are also uncomfortable. The gs-l I drove was noticeably quieter but also had uncomfortable seats. I have faith in the hybrid system longevity. Unfortunately the seats are a common complaint as are the numerous squeaks and rattles that appear. While this may be because of the sport feeling Mazda wants, for me its a fail. I've put a deposit on one here in Ontario but will make my decision when they arrive in early 2025. As always, thank you for your expertise David.
People always complain about the lack of touch screen access on certain screens, but to me, that's better. Using the dial doesn't take my attention off the road as much as touch screens do. Also, it keeps those pesky finger smudges on the surface of the screen to a minimum.
One of the biggest problems with the newer suvs is the amount of exterior plastics that they're putting on them. Each year, the plastic is thinner and cheaper. The end results after only 2 or 3 years the plastic develops what's called tiger striping. Applying a plastic sealant, sooner rather than later, is very beneficial. As for the paint, yes, the quality of the paint is good, but it's very thin on the japanese models compared to american models. Mazda paint is especially thin, so try to put a good ceramic coating or sealant on it. And try to limit the amount of high p h automatic car washes favoring instead ph neutral hand washing.
Glad to hear the quality is up. My 2020 CX-30 aka "the taco" was lacking in that department. Seams were ok but panels did not align right. Paint between the plastic and metal parts did not match. Other than that it's been a great car. Good fuel miles for 186 hp, good transmission and handles GREAT!! The icing on the cake is Toyota D4S engine that takes care of the GDI carbon buildup..Just wish the CX-30 came as a hybrid.. A small Mazda version of the Corolla cross Hybrid? Hate the "face" of the Cross hybrid.
Thanks for the great review and recommendation. I do think that the US version should have a heated steering wheel. Like Canada, it gets cold here! I would have expected a 360 view camera also? Thanks again for your insights!!
CX-50 is such a handsome vehicle 🤩 I’ve test driven it twice. But Dave, will you comment on the rear torsion beam suspension? I’m disappointed because if I’m paying a lot of hard earned money for a new car, I worry that its rear suspension isn’t as robust as it ought to be 😕
Great review and presentation as usual David. I like your approach and especially the opinion of an engineer such as yourself. I have a CX50 Turbo and was thinking of a trade for the CX50 Hybrid for the MPG. However, I heard of the Rav4 Hybrid going to the 5th Gen late next year or 2026. If so, wouldn't that be a better option or do you see a disadvantage in that 5TH Gen hybrid that I am not seeing ? Also, would the 5th GEN give you less MPG given the extra performance ? Looking forward to your views in this regard.
Thanks, Great Review. To bad the Canadian Spec Hybrid model is not available in the USA market. We don't get the terra cotta leather and some other features on the US cars. Can you buy a Canadian model and register it in the States?
As he said, each with their philosophy. I think Mazda wants to get things like Germany cars. Good handling takes away comfort. Most buyers care about comfort than handling. But I wish handling was improved in Toyotas and Lexus.
You better not ruin the ride in the process, you all always want sporty driving. Then buy a Mazda leave the Toyota‘s alone some of us like the good ride. Some of us like the cushiness
I know that the two mfgs. are currently building different engines on separate lines. But aren't they planning to collaborate on powertrains in the future? Yet still working on their own engines?
Its too bad they dont have a plugin hybrid version. If it matched the Rav4 Prime numbers or came close to it I might have waited for it, as I think the CX50 looks better.
Toyota will never share latest hybrid technology. This is why mazda will develop thier own in-house hybrid system. And new engines will be called Skyactive Z. It may release in late 2025 with all new cx5.
I'm considering the hybrid cx-50 as a long-term (10+ years) purchase. Do you think this is a recommendation? Or is there a better car you would recommend?
I only wish that there was a true base Select trim that doesn't include a slow power lift gate that you're forced to buy with the current CX-50 hybrid trims. Actually, what I really want to see is a CX-30 hybrid because this CX-50 hybrid is 4000 pounds and really pricey. Black headliner for both the CX-50/30 would be way more luxurious than the current tacky greige headliner.
True torque for hybrids like Toyota is very misleading because you can't easily add both ( gas and electric ) together like that. But rest assured it's much more than the regular gas model ( non turbo).
I went to a Mazda dealership recently and liked everything. I thought the regular CX -50 was nice but I think I would prefer the CX-90 size wise with kids. I didn't test drive anything though. I really like the Pilot too. We're torn🫣. I need to drive them. Also, getting a totally new power train is a little worrying.
Powetrain is not new. It's a proven Toyota 4th generation hybrid system. Mazda had to make some modifications to fit everything but main powertain components are not new.
@@yslee1401 Back in the 70's and 80's most cars i drove had rattles some more than others. Even new cars. One day I rented a Volvo 240 and voila! Zero rattles, felt like it was built out of a solid chunk of stee.l. Never experienced anything like it.
Mazda should learn from this; drop the MX-30EV, the CX-50 is a much better size & since it does to well with Toyota tech, they should work with Toyota & Subaru and utilize the excellent e-TNGA platform, they could use a Mazda touch on the interior & software, & Mazda could further benefit from Toyota's Electritication experience and more comfortable seats.
Mazda is the new rising star in automotive industry.
It’s old company not new. They are just improving and making better products.
Since 2018 I’ve owned a Mazda6 Signature, CX9 GT, my current CX5 Signature and MX-5 RF Club BBR….all great vehicles! The CX50 Hybrid has me intrigued.
No is Hyundai
I used to own a 2017 Mazda 6 and absolutely loved it. I was immediately impressed with the build quality. I came from a Civic. One of the first things I noticed was the exterior window moldings weren’t all misaligned like the Civic. The doors sounded and felt nice. The shifter and clutch felt really engaging which was a surprise for a big family sedan.
I have a 2024 CX-50 Turbo Premium. Very good value for the included options. Very happy so far.
The mpg is lower though right on turbo?
@@nelsdale1137yes, MPG’s are lower with the turbo. But coming from a Hemi Charger, it’s still better economy and more “performance” oriented.
Well done David. No other car reviewers can go into the details like you did , only a Real Engineer can. Keep up with your good work. Thanks.
Thank you so much Sammy!
David, You know all about the ins and outs of auto production, how can Toyota be supplying RAV4 hybrid components to Mazda when they cannot keep up with demand for
their own RAV4 Hybrid? 🤨
I wonder if they use the same engine and transmission for the powertrain
@@manuvnsit’s the same
No transmission... planetary gear sert
I'd love for that brown interior to be available in the US.
Toyota owns about 5% of Mazda and Mazda owns about 0.25% of Toyota
Hello David!
First time viewer ... what a great review! Definitely a new subscriber now.
Currently driving a 2010 RAV4 Ltd. V6 that is going to turn 300K this week. It's been a great vehicle but I know it's not going to last forever, so this now might be on the top of the replacement list!
Best Regards,
David from Oshawa
I have a CX90 and actually prefer the dial-press over touch screen.
Agreed. People equate touching as more intuitive and modern. When really, if you give that dial a chance it's actually more efficient once you get the muscle memory down.
Absolutely agree withe wheel its so much more efficient especially while driving. Touching screen would be annoying while driving such large suv. I love my cx90 as well
100% agree. Cannot go back. It boggles my mind how people think touch screens are better.
My son has a CX-5 SUV and that thing reeks of quality inside and out.
I've been researching this car a lot. I've driven the non hybrid versions. The turbo had terrible road noise. I feel it was the tires. The seats are also uncomfortable. The gs-l I drove was noticeably quieter but also had uncomfortable seats. I have faith in the hybrid system longevity. Unfortunately the seats are a common complaint as are the numerous squeaks and rattles that appear. While this may be because of the sport feeling Mazda wants, for me its a fail. I've put a deposit on one here in Ontario but will make my decision when they arrive in early 2025.
As always, thank you for your expertise David.
David your voice is so calming, lol. I
People always complain about the lack of touch screen access on certain screens, but to me, that's better. Using the dial doesn't take my attention off the road as much as touch screens do. Also, it keeps those pesky finger smudges on the surface of the screen to a minimum.
One of the biggest problems with the newer suvs is the amount of exterior plastics that they're putting on them. Each year, the plastic is thinner and cheaper. The end results after only 2 or 3 years the plastic develops what's called tiger striping. Applying a plastic sealant, sooner rather than later, is very beneficial. As for the paint, yes, the quality of the paint is good, but it's very thin on the japanese models compared to american models. Mazda paint is especially thin, so try to put a good ceramic coating or sealant on it. And try to limit the amount of high p h automatic car washes favoring instead ph neutral hand washing.
Glad to hear the quality is up. My 2020 CX-30 aka "the taco" was lacking in that department. Seams were ok but panels did not align right. Paint between the plastic and metal parts did not match. Other than that it's been a great car. Good fuel miles for 186 hp, good transmission and handles GREAT!! The icing on the cake is Toyota D4S engine that takes care of the GDI carbon buildup..Just wish the CX-30 came as a hybrid..
A small Mazda version of the Corolla cross Hybrid? Hate the "face" of the Cross hybrid.
Most likely built in Mexico. I paid extra for a used Mazda 3 because I wanted it made in Japan and the only ones made there are the higher trim ones.
Thanks for the great review and recommendation. I do think that the US version should have a heated steering wheel. Like Canada, it gets cold here! I would have expected a 360 view camera also? Thanks again for your insights!!
CX-50 is such a handsome vehicle 🤩 I’ve test driven it twice. But Dave, will you comment on the rear torsion beam suspension? I’m disappointed because if I’m paying a lot of hard earned money for a new car, I worry that its rear suspension isn’t as robust as it ought to be 😕
Great review and presentation as usual David. I like your approach and especially the opinion of an engineer such as yourself.
I have a CX50 Turbo and was thinking of a trade for the CX50 Hybrid for the MPG. However, I heard of the Rav4 Hybrid going to the 5th Gen late next year or 2026. If so, wouldn't that be a better option or do you see a disadvantage in that 5TH Gen hybrid that I am not seeing ? Also, would the 5th GEN give you less MPG given the extra performance ? Looking forward to your views in this regard.
Thanks, Great Review. To bad the Canadian Spec Hybrid model is not available in the USA market. We don't get the terra cotta leather and some other features on the US cars. Can you buy a Canadian model and register it in the States?
Currently drive a 2008 MazdaSpeed 3, (manual trans). Is this my next Mazda? What's everyone's thinking? Thanks
Great overview‼️ 11:46
I hope they'll use toyota's hybrid system in more of their vehicles
Yeah, would be great if they used Toyota Hybrid system on the CX80
Toyota needs to copy Mazda steering feel and handling.
As he said, each with their philosophy. I think Mazda wants to get things like Germany cars. Good handling takes away comfort. Most buyers care about comfort than handling. But I wish handling was improved in Toyotas and Lexus.
You better not ruin the ride in the process, you all always want sporty driving. Then buy a Mazda leave the Toyota‘s alone some of us like the good ride. Some of us like the cushiness
@ exactly.
Bur have it as an upgrade or trim level
Glad that Toyota and Mazda are now building engines together in Huntsville, Alabama. Sharing technology and lowering cost.
Toyota is building this engine independently of Mazda. No powertrains are produced at the joint facility in Alabama.
I know that the two mfgs. are currently building different engines on separate lines. But aren't they planning to collaborate on powertrains in the future? Yet still working on their own engines?
In the market for 2025 CX 90, but am concern about the recall. Please share your thoughts??
Its too bad they dont have a plugin hybrid version. If it matched the Rav4 Prime numbers or came close to it I might have waited for it, as I think the CX50 looks better.
Used to be that you avoided cars coming out of brand new factories until they got their act together.
I think the Alabama plant is doing a good job so far!
David, What type of transmission does the CX-50 Hybrid have? CVT or Mazdas 6 speed automatic?
It’s an e-CVT same one in the RAV4 hybrid!
Hope you to compare CRV hybrid to CX5 hybrid to RAV4 hybrid
The spare tire is also def a plus. But how does the ride compare to SIGNIA ?
Do you see any quality differences between the CX50 (US made) vs the CX5 (Japan made)?
Toyota will never share latest hybrid technology. This is why mazda will develop thier own in-house hybrid system. And new engines will be called Skyactive Z. It may release in late 2025 with all new cx5.
Wanna see this engine tech as a minivan
I'm considering the hybrid cx-50 as a long-term (10+ years) purchase. Do you think this is a recommendation? Or is there a better car you would recommend?
I only wish that there was a true base Select trim that doesn't include a slow power lift gate that you're forced to buy with the current CX-50 hybrid trims. Actually, what I really want to see is a CX-30 hybrid because this CX-50 hybrid is 4000 pounds and really pricey. Black headliner for both the CX-50/30 would be way more luxurious than the current tacky greige headliner.
Because it's a hybrid, does it only come with a cvt?
David, is the 163 lbs feet of Torque correct?
True torque for hybrids like Toyota is very misleading because you can't easily add both ( gas and electric ) together like that. But rest assured it's much more than the regular gas model ( non turbo).
I went to a Mazda dealership recently and liked everything. I thought the regular CX -50 was nice but I think I would prefer the CX-90 size wise with kids. I didn't test drive anything though. I really like the Pilot too. We're torn🫣. I need to drive them. Also, getting a totally new power train is a little worrying.
Did you test it? I am curious on the torsion beam in the rear lol from my experience it does feel super refined
@verynick I didn't drive anything. Just hopped in and out.
Powetrain is not new. It's a proven Toyota 4th generation hybrid system. Mazda had to make some modifications to fit everything but main powertain components are not new.
@@kevtn8 Sorry, I was referring to the CX-90 when I was thinking about that.
Get the Pilot! It's a tank.
I always wondered if rattles are caused by poor engineering or assembly?
Both and poor parts quality as well
@@yslee1401 Back in the 70's and 80's most cars i drove had rattles some more than others. Even new cars. One day I rented a Volvo 240 and voila! Zero rattles, felt like it was built out of a solid chunk of stee.l. Never experienced anything like it.
@@pedrofernandez8729 those tank like 240 were real Sweedish Volvos without Chinese DNA
Paint in Toyota’s factory . Does it mean no rust like Toyota?
Mazda should learn from this; drop the MX-30EV, the CX-50 is a much better size & since it does to well with Toyota tech, they should work with Toyota & Subaru and utilize the excellent e-TNGA platform, they could use a Mazda touch on the interior & software, & Mazda could further benefit from Toyota's Electritication experience and more comfortable seats.
Alabama made 🤠? Yeah hard pass on that. I’ll stick with Japanese made 🇯🇵
The Alabama plant has been doing a good job so far on the CX 50 builds
The specs in Canada shows the cx50 have NiMH batteries. The Toyota uses the more advanced and less heavier Li-ion batteries
I would buy it if it didn’t have plastic along the bottom exterior of the entire car
The paint in the mazdas is always very thin
Because it is Toyota
Wished they had used softer suspension setup
6:10 that`s the main reason why peoples buying mazda, hands off from physical buttons, gtfo with touchscreens and pannels
Dial system...if it aint broke don't fix it
No lithium shame and way OVERPRICED
No Hybrids