Rugged crossovers are becoming a dominant force in the market, with nearly every automaker offering an off-road-focused version. Models like Honda’s TrailSport, Toyota’s TRD Off-Road, Kia’s X-Pro, Hyundai’s XRT, and Nissan’s Rock Creek exemplify the trend of family SUVs ready for adventure. Subaru’s Wilderness trim also stands out, reinforcing its stronghold in the world of rugged, plastic-clad vehicles.
DESIGN
After the 2022 CX-50’s debut, Mazda’s Meridian Edition brings a more rugged edge to its compact crossover. For an extra $2,800, it includes silver rocker panel accents, unique 18-inch wheels with Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail tires, and a bold hood decal. Our test car, in Polymetal Gray Metallic, was equipped with terracotta leather seats, which added a premium touch that helped justify the price increase.
For those looking to add more adventure-ready features, Mazda’s $1,235 Apex package delivers. It includes a pallet-style roof rack, black lug nuts, and splash guards. While the roof rack enhances its outdoor appeal, it’s not ideal for high-speed hauling. On the highway, road noise dominates the cabin, making it easy to ignore complaints from passengers. For some, that’s a fair trade-off.
PERFORMANCE
The Meridian Edition, outfitted with standard all-wheel drive and Off-Road mode, is well-equipped for light adventures, thanks to Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail tires. Its low roofline adds to the sleek, grounded appearance, though ground clearance remains typical at 8.5 inches for compact crossovers. Interestingly, this version sits 0.1 inch lower than the rest of the CX-50 Turbo lineup, which features larger 20-inch wheels.
While it handles lighter trails, such as snow and sand, with ease, the Meridian Edition is not built for extreme off-roading. The rugged tires offer confidence on mild terrain, but the lack of extra ground clearance and underbody protection restricts its capability on tougher routes. It’s par for the course in this segment of crossovers.
On the road, the CX-50 impresses with responsive acceleration from its 256-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter engine. Mazda’s calibration provides ample power right off the line, ensuring solid real-world performance. With a 0-60 mph time of 6.7 seconds, just shy of the Premium Plus, it’s more fun to drive than many competitors, thanks to its sharp steering and precise handling.
VERDICT
Starting at $40,800, the 2024 Mazda CX-50 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition adds a few extras to enhance its appeal. Polymetal Gray Metallic paint costs an additional $450, while premium carpet floor mats are priced at $150. With the $1,235 Apex package and fees for delivery, processing, and handling, the final cost totals $44,010.
