I've owned my 2022 CX-5 Premium Plus for about 18 months. It's a fine vehicle with respects to its build quality and handling ability but it rides like crap unless it is on smooth unbroken pavement. I understand the stiff suspension and all for handling ability but, it is hardly pleasurable to ride in unless you're on smooth, smooth surfaces. I find myself wanting to drive it less and less. Does the CX-50 have as poor of a ride as the CX-5 ? I wouldn't mind moving up to the larger CX-50 with the turbo if it offers a more comfortable driving experience.

 

Better test drive them to compare.

You might also consider going to a different tire.

For test purposes only and not to be used except only to test a short distance ONLY!!!!

Lower all your tire pressure early in the morning to 26psi. You may need to reset the tire pressure reset status button? Then go for a short drive on dry pavement only. A short drive is less then 5 miles.

If your ride quality improves it is more than likely the tires you currently have on your MAZDA.

Dont forget to adjust your tire pressure back to proper psi and check early in the morning before you drive and before the sun or warmer temperature effect the air pressure.

 

Friday I test drove a new CX-50 and new CX-5. The CX-5 I know well because I've owned a few of that model. The CX-50 had a similar drive-handling, but not quite as crisp as the CX-5. Also, the CX-50 seemed tuned to rev the engine louder , like a sports car sound.
I believe that for the past 10 years the CX-5 has been a popular selling model because its drive handling and appearance is suitable for a wide range of consumers, from young to old. The CX-50 size and styling appearance I believe will appeal to a smaller market of consumers than the CX-5.

 

The CX-50 has styling catering toward the younger crowd that might consider an outback or forester. They squared off the wheels with that big lower body plastic rocker panel cladding. When I drove a cx-50 I noticed they did soften the suspension but it gets that soft suspension wobble in turns. I didn't find the engine any louder. The biggest problem for me is I prefer the compact size of the CX-5 and that extra 5 inches on the CX-50 aren't necessary for me. But for a young family with a couple kids and all that kid junk maybe a little more backseat and cargo helps. ​​​​That and my head almost touches the roof in the CX-50 driver seat because they made it 0.6" higher ground clearance and lowered the overall height.

 

Im the older crowd and loved the look of the CX50 over the CX5. Im not a fan of Subaru, never have been. The CX50 is wide and has a muscular stance. Those are the attributes on the exterior that drove me toward the purchase. I chose the 2024 CX50 2.5T PP. I had it for 45 days and love it. Its my first SUV. No regrets on my purchase.