Summary of Key Takeaways
- The CX-50 ranks as the second most popular vehicle in the brand's 2025 sales data.
- Ground clearance measures a solid 8.6 inches for off-road obstacles.
- Engine performance reaches 256 horsepower when using premium fuel.
- Interior materials include Terracotta leather and high-end switchgear.
In 1948, Ford introduced the F-Series and shifted the American focus from simple utility to everyday capability. Mazda does the same here with a crossover that refuses to stay on the pavement. I noticed this data first appeared on Thursday, February 12, 2026, through Chron. The strategy is clear. It works.
The numbers tell a compelling story. This vehicle is a hit. It currently holds the silver medal in the corporate sales race right behind the CX-5. I think the Polymetal Gray Metallic paint gives the body a professional look. The chassis sits 8.6 inches above the ground. This height matters when you leave the suburban streets. Black rocker garnishes protect the lower panels. Hood graphics stop the sun from blinding the driver. New gloss black emblems arrive for the 2026 model year. And the 18-inch wheels feature a black metallic finish. They wear all-terrain tires. This rubber is the primary hardware change for the Meridian Edition.
The lighting setup is advanced. LED headlights sit in the front. They use an Adaptive Front Lighting System to track the steering wheel. High beam control is part of the package. But the back looks just as good. LED combo taillights define the rear. A roof spoiler adds a sleek touch. Dual exhaust outlets have a bright finish. The Apex Package adds utility. It features black crossbars. It includes a roof platform for gear. Rain-sensing wipers handle the weather. Wiper de-icers keep the blades clear in the snow. Power-folding mirrors stay warm with internal heaters.
Getting into the details
The powertrain utilizes a 2.5-liter twin-scroll supercharger. An i-all-wheel drive system puts the power to the ground. The 6-speed automatic transmission handles the shifting. Stop/go technology cuts the engine at traffic lights to save gas. Regular fuel produces 227 horsepower. Premium fuel bumps that number to 256 horsepower. Torque hits 320 pound-feet. The cabin is quiet. I noticed the build quality matches premium European brands. Terracotta leather-trimmed seats have black accents. They feel expensive. The inner door handles are thick. You feel the quality every time you exit. Stitching runs across the surfaces in a matching Terracotta shade. The driver's seat offers 8-way power adjustments. It includes lumbar support and memory. The passenger seat has 6-way power. Both front chairs feature three levels of heat. They also offer ventilation. Second-row passengers get their own seat heaters. The steering wheel is wrapped in smooth leather. It has paddle shifters for manual control.
The counter-narrative
Critics look at the hardware. The all-terrain tires are the only physical upgrade for off-road performance. The suspension remains the same as the base model. Some competitors offer more gears than this 6-speed transmission. The supercharger is a unique choice for this segment. But it might not satisfy those looking for a traditional hybrid system. The roof platform adds noise at highway speeds.
Sales charts define the current era. The CX-50 sits in the second spot for brand volume through early 2026. This position reflects a massive shift in consumer desire for dirt-ready utility. I think the styling is the main draw for buyers in this segment. The sheet metal looks wide. Fender flares emphasize the stance. It works. The platform creates a stable footprint for the driver.
I saw the hardware firsthand at a local showroom. The chassis sits 8.6 inches above the dirt to ensure the oil pan remains untouched by jagged stones. Gravity loses. Thick black rocker garnishes shield the paint from flying gravel. A matte black hood graphic kills the sun glare on the windshield. The 2026 Meridian Edition features 18-inch wheels. These wheels wear all-terrain tires. They provide traction on mud. They offer grip on wet grass. And the gloss black emblems give the exterior a finished look.
The powertrain provides the force. A 2.5-liter twin-scroll turbocharger forces air into the cylinders. Use premium fuel to reach 256 horsepower. This engine delivers 320 pound-feet of torque for quick merges on the highway. Power flows through a 6-speed automatic transmission. But some enthusiasts might ask for more gear ratios. I noticed the throttle response feels linear and predictable. The i-Activ all-wheel drive system monitors individual wheel speed. It sends torque to the tires with the most grip. Stop/go technology kills the engine at red lights to conserve gasoline.
The cabin feels like a luxury lounge. Terracotta leather covers the seating surfaces. Black accents provide contrast. The inner door handles are heavy metal. You feel the mass every time you pull the lever. Stitching runs across the dashboard in a matching orange hue. The driver utilizes an 8-way power seat with memory settings. Passengers enjoy 6-way power adjustments. Both front chairs blow cold air through the perforations on hot days. They heat up in the winter. Second-row occupants have their own heating elements. The leather steering wheel includes paddle shifters for manual control of the gears.
Upcoming Updates for 2026 and 2027
Mazda engineers are currently testing a hybrid powertrain for the North American market. This system will likely utilize Toyota components to increase fuel efficiency. Expect an announcement regarding the electrified version by late summer. Over-the-air updates will arrive in May to refresh the infotainment icons. The new software will speed up the wireless connection for mobile devices. I think the addition of a hybrid option will help this model take the top sales spot from the CX-5.
Supplemental Material: Off-Road Equipment
- Black crossbars attach to the factory roof rails for extra storage.
- The Apex Package includes a steel roof platform for heavy gear.
- Rain-sensing wipers clear the glass during sudden storms.
- Wiper de-icers melt the ice at the base of the windshield.
- Power-folding mirrors tuck away to avoid damage on tight trails.
- LED headlights use an adaptive system to look around corners.
Tell us what you think
On Sales Success: Does the second-place ranking surprise you given the popularity of the CX-5? I noticed most buyers prefer the more rugged appearance over the traditional crossover shape.
On Ground Clearance: Is 8.6 inches enough for your weekend activities? This height allows the vehicle to clear most trail obstacles without scraping the underbody.
On Engine Output: Would you pay the extra price for premium fuel to access the full 256 horsepower? The torque remains high even with regular gasoline in the tank.
On Interior Quality: Do Terracotta leather and metal handles influence your purchase decision? I think the tactile feel of the cabin sets this brand apart from cheaper competitors.
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