Mazda has announced the 2023 CX-50 Meridian Edition will be priced from $39,950 when it arrives at U.S. dealerships this fall.
Based on the CX-50 2.5 Turbo, the Meridian Edition is an “outdoor-focused” crossover that features a matte black hood graphic as well as black 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Falken all-terrain tires. They contrast with a Polymetal Gray or Zircon Sand exterior.
The model also has black headlight surrounds and rugged rocker panels with silver accents. Customers can also order a $1,235 Apex Package, which adds roof-mounted crossbars, a roof platform, and mud flaps.
Driven: The 2023 Mazda CX-50 Is A Gateway To The Great Outdoors
Moving into the cabin, buyers will find Terracotta leather seats with black accents. Since the Meridian Edition is based on the CX-50 2.5 Turbo, customers can also expect power heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a 10.25-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. They should be joined by a dual-zone automatic climate control system, an auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink, a panoramic moonroof, and a power rear liftgate.
Power is provided by a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that develops 227 hp (169 kW / 230 PS) and 310 lb-ft (420 Nm) of torque on regular 87 octane gasoline. However, the output climbs to 256 hp (191 kW / 260 PS) and 320 lb-ft (433 Nm) on premium. Regardless of which fuel is used, the engine is backed up by a six-speed automatic transmission and a standard all-wheel drive system.
Buyers who love the look, but not the price, can opt for the dealer-installed Meridian Choice Package that costs $1,899 on other variants. It features a slightly revised matte black hood graphic as well as similar rocker panels and headlight trim. They’re joined by mud flaps, black crossbars, and a roof platform.
On the topic of pricing, Mazda announced a mid-year increase of $750 for all 2023 CX-50s. This means the model now starts at $27,550 and that’s before factoring in an increased destination and handling fee of $1,275 ($1,320 in Alaska).
