Mazda CX-50 I (2023 – 2025)
Reliability score : 9.1/10
The Mazda CX-50 (Generation I) is a compact SUV with an "adventurer" positioning, designed primarily for the North American market and manufactured in the United States (Huntsville, Alabama plant, in a joint venture with Toyota). Longer, wider, and featuring optimized ground clearance compared to the CX-5, it targets customers with an active lifestyle. It stands out for its above-average build quality for its category and excellent initial reliability scores. According to J.D. Power (IQS 2023), Mazda ranked as the top brand in initial quality, with the CX-50 leading its segment, surpassing benchmarks like the Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V.
✅ Strengths
- Exceptional initial quality (J.D. Power IQS 2023 leader ahead of Toyota and Honda)
- Widely proven reliability of the 2.5L naturally aspirated and Turbo engines
- Highly successful integration of the Toyota hybrid system (on Hybrid version)
- Extremely robust and responsive 6-speed automatic gearbox (Skyactiv-Drive)
- Build quality and interior finish superior to the category
- High-performance and standard i-ACTIV AWD system (in North America)
⚠️ Weaknesses
- Model not officially available on the European market
- Fairly high fuel consumption of the 2.5 Turbo version in dynamic driving
- Slightly firm suspension comfort, particularly with 20-inch wheels
- Rear headroom slightly penalized by the low roofline
🎯 Verdict
The Mazda CX-50 is a highly recommended choice for the markets where it is available. By relying on the Skyactiv-G internal combustion engines whose reliability is well proven, and by borrowing Toyota's hybrid technology for its electrified version, Mazda has created an extremely robust SUV. Data from J.D. Power and Consumer Reports confirm excellent initial quality and projected reliability, surpassing even the segment leaders. The only points of vigilance concern a few early recalls (suspension/tow hitch assembly) covered by the manufacturer. It is a worry-free purchase.
Common issues
Problèmes logiciels du système d'infodivertissement et caméra de recul
Medium
🔧 Dès les premiers kilomètres
💶 Pris en charge par le constructeur (mise à jour logicielle)
Vérifier les mises à jour logicielles et le bon fonctionnement de la caméra.
Rappel : Boulon de poulie de vilebrequin desserré (moteurs 2.5L Turbo)
High
🔧 Avant 30 000 km
💶 Pris en charge par le constructeur
S'assurer que le rappel a été effectué par le concessionnaire.
Rappel : Défaillance de la pompe à carburant (moteurs 2.5L Turbo)
High
🔧 Avant 30 000 km
💶 Pris en charge par le constructeur
Vérifier l'historique des rappels et leur résolution.
Rappel : Erreur logicielle du module de commande de transmission (moteurs 2.5L atmosphériques)
High
🔧 Avant 30 000 km
💶 Pris en charge par le constructeur
Confirmer que la mise à jour logicielle du TCM a été appliquée.
Estimated maintenance costs
| Oil change |
100 – 180 £ |
| Complete brakes |
450 – 750 £ |
| Estimated annual budget |
300 – 550 £ |
Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.