Apparently Mazda is going to copy the Outback Wilderness with their new CX-50 Meridian Edition. The CX-50 is aimed at copying the Outback just by itself, but wow... they are literally copying the paint scheme of the OBW along with the fender flares... jeez.

It will be interesting to see the head to head comparisons. I guess the Outback and the Wilderness are just that good that other auto makers are having to mimic their competition... seems quite unoriginal, but I guess it will draw more folks to the space. Could also prompt Subaru to keep the edge above.

Implementation and pricing is key. We shall see how well they perform both. I have read many Subaru owners talk about how they get so much bang for their dollars. In order to get the same quality and mix of features in another brand they would have to spend many thousands more. Alternatively, many have determined that the extra money they spend for a bit more luxury in another brand is not worth the much larger pricing. Subaru supports a niche of owners, that have not been found in many other brands. But this may not stop other brands from taking a run at that Subaru niche. Reliability, practicality, stability in design, safety, flexible navigation into more remote areas.

 

Great! I'd love to see more competition in this segment.

I really like my OBW, but it would have been nice, when shopping, to actually have some meaningful competition to shop against. I need/want something that can get me to sketchy trailheads, which requires more of an offroad bent, but I also drive 25k miles/year, so suffering through all of those highway miles and pouring gas into a Jeep or a 4Runner just wasn't what I was looking for.

I looked a lot at the CX-5 but it just didn't have the stock offroad capability of the OBW, even if you slapped AT tires on it. That said, it was the closest runner-up, because Mazda does a nice job of prioritizing the driver experience between good finishes, a decent UI for their infotainment (including less reliance on touch screens, SUBARU), and a fun driving experience. I don't know what I would have picked if this Meridian Edition was available, but at least it would have been a discussion.

As it was, the discussion boiled down to essentially: "hey, what other vehicles offer this balance of quiet, comfortable driving experience, with decent gas mileage, but great offroad capability, for this price? Besides, you know, the Forester Wilderness Edition? Oh, nobody? Okay then, guess we're getting another Subaru."

 

I really like my OBW, but it would have been nice, when shopping, to actually have some meaningful competition to shop against. I need/want something that can get me to sketchy trailheads, which requires more of an offroad bent, but I also drive 25k miles/year, so suffering through all of those highway miles and pouring gas into a Jeep or a 4Runner just wasn't what I was looking for.

Yep, i feel ya there. I commute 31 miles one way....

Had a Honda Crosstour before but the 4wd absolutely sucked. Understeer like mad. The wildpeak a/t trails helped a lot, but not enough for me to be super confident in snow. Ground clearance was that of an accord, because that's what it is... a 4wd accord hatchback. If Honda had something better I would've went that route as I'm a honda fan through and through. But went to check out the OBW and man, that was an expensive drive. Was sold pretty much instantly. Still getting used to the loudness of the CVT as the crosstour was dead silent. The nav system could really be a bit speedier and some other small things that bug me, but for the most part my OBW is f'n great.

I do want to drive one of these Mazda's though once they come out, just from a curiosity standpoint. I think whoever makes an Offroad edition that's a plug in hybrid, I'd be sold.

 

I generally like Mazda products.
The torsion beam rear is a disappointment. If you thought the OB lacked articulation, just imagine a solid rear axle.
And Mazda keeps insisting on using that infuriating stuck-on display panel.

Competition is good. Drives innovation and the consumer benefits.

 

I generally like Mazda products.
The torsion beam rear is a disappointment. If you thought the OB lacked articulation, just imagine a solid rear axle.
And Mazda keeps insisting on using that infuriating stuck-on display panel.

Competition is good. Drives innovation and the consumer benefits.

I watched Dave Coleman's explanation of the torsion beam and it makes sense even though I would have to try it for myself. Also torsion beam is not equal to solid rear axle.

 

There is no greater flattery than to be copied!

 

MAZDA = FORD, so it's really Ford trying to get into a style market.

 

Ford sold off the last of its interest in Mazda back in 2015. I don't think Ford has investment in any other car companies now.

 

I'm keeping an eye on the CX-50 as I like the exterior looks, but some of Mazda's choices baffle me.

For starters, the weird AC vent cutout in the middle of the dash looks so awful, like they tried to implement the newer VW-style integrated AC vents that sort of "camouflage" with the dash trim, but they only started that design and gave it up half way through. It looks really, really bad and messes with my OCD.

I also don't like how the screen is set so far back on the dash. It's also seems oddly narrow vertically and too wide - it would be easier to see and use IMO if it was not as wide but taller vertically. Hate all you like about the Gen 6 Outback screens but at least everything is right there, in big text and icons, so it's super easy to see.

Considering how much people love to go on and on about Mazda's supposedly premium interiors, this doesn't look bad overall but really nothing extraordinary. Also, like I said, that weird AC vent cutout really messes with my OCD and I couldn't live with that car just for that alone.

To be a true Outback competitor, Mazda would need to improve their AWD system. Their current system is still a part-time slip and grip type system, not a true AWD like our Subarus.

Also, torsion beam, really? Even full size pickup trucks are starting to move towards fully independent rear suspension but Mazda thinks a crossover needs solid rear axles?

 

copycat (from Slate) -
More famously, Shakespeare used “cat” in a similarly negative sense in All’s Well That End’s Well; Count Bertram tells his right-hand man that Captain Dumain seems increasingly sleazy: “A pox upon him for me, he’s more and more a Cat.” Judging from this etymological history, a “copycat” isn’t someone who copies, like a cat, but a jerk prone to imitation.

💲I doubt Mazda had flattery in mind, just profits.

 

Looks to me like the base CX-50 will be priced comparably to the OBW but with fewer standard features and less powerful engine. To get into some of the OBW's standard features will require moving up in the CX-50 line, with added cost.

Agree with those saying the competition will be good for the consumer. Of course, at my age, if things keep working out with my OBW, I may not need to buy another car.

 

We can see this pricing/marketing approach from many manufacturers. They price a lower level offering at a similar price of their competitor but as you noted with fewer features. It is the savvy buyer that will realize prior to emotional or contractual commitment that they are in fact not comparable. Whether the feature involves comfort or performance such as a better AWD system. The details always matter.

 

Apparently Mazda is going to copy the Outback Wilderness with their new CX-50 Meridian Edition. The CX-50 is aimed at copying the Outback just by itself, but wow... they are literally copying the paint scheme of the OBW along with the fender flares... jeez.

It will be interesting to see the head to head comparisons. I guess the Outback and the Wilderness are just that good that other auto makers are having to mimic their competition... seems quite unoriginal, but I guess it will draw more folks to the space. Could also prompt Subaru to keep the edge above.

Yep - they started on this journey last year:

Other: - Mazda CX-50

Just saw this on CU's website: https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2023-mazda-cx-50-review-a2206621676/?EXTKEY=NC1BNRSN3&utm_source=acxiom&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=20211123_nsltr_cars&utm_nsltr=cars Check out the green CX-50 - look familiar? Also... "the CX-50 is the first Mazda vehicle...

www.subaruoutback.org

 

Sure would be nice if Subaru would copycat Mazda's 'Soul Red'. Everyone else is.

 

Stunning paint. Had it on a 16' Mazda 3, BUT it would chip if you looked at it wrong. Mazda needs to get their act together on that paint color. Problems have been going on for years. Now, if we could get Subaru to source the auto trans from Mazda, there would be a winning combination. That Mazda 6 speed is a lovely piece of uber reliable machinery!!

 

We have a 2018 Mazda 6 GTR (turbo) and a 2018 Outback Limited. Someone mentioned earlier that Subie had more stock power - it doesn't - standard/base engines are both 2.5 liter and Mazda has a 2 hp and tq advantage over the Outback with the CX50. The upgraded engines (both 2.5 turbos) give Subie slightly more horsepower, but the Mazdas have vastly more torque - 320 lb-ft at 2000 rpm. The 6 speed transmission, although only 6 gears, is an infinitely better experience than the Subaru CVT, and bulletproof. The interiors blow Subaru away. Just sitting on the leather in either car reveals a ton about quality interior components.

And, just to clear things up, today's Mazda has no relationship with Ford at all. I'm guessing why their reliability ratings have soared since 2016.

We bought the Outback to replace a 18 year old, V8 4Runner with 365K miles, as we needed a wagon that could take us where we wanted to go. All the above being said, we love, truly love the Outback. When we needed to replace a 16 year old Camry, I wanted something with a bit more performance, and the Mazda got us that.

I imagine the CX-50 will be a solid vehicle. I'd also expect the Subaru to have a far better AWD system, and similar reliability.

I didn't think I'd like Mazda's infotainment, but I've come to prefer it to a touch screen, and I really like the retention of buttons and knobs for many functions.

Ultimately, Mazda will have a big hill to climb to compete with the Outback. But they really do have a solid product, reliable, performance oriented, and the interiors are fantastic.

All of the Mazdas are more driver oriented, and I imagine even the CX50 will be a great street car with mild snow and dirt capabilities. The Subie will probably continue to be far better in bad weather or on the moderate trails.

I think Mazda and Subaru are in many respects pretty similar companies - both smaller, scrappier, more clever, and more thoughtful in their vehicles. The boxer and Subaru's AWD are venerable designs, and Mazda's Skyactiv engines and transmissions are great with some very clever engineering that is standing the test of time.

For our family and purposes, the Subie and the Mazda are the right combination, at least until a reasonably priced and solidly AWD capable electric option opens up.

 

Apparently Mazda is going to copy the Outback Wilderness with their new CX-50 Meridian Edition. The CX-50 is aimed at copying the Outback just by itself, but wow... they are literally copying the paint scheme of the OBW along with the fender flares... jeez.

It will be interesting to see the head to head comparisons. I guess the Outback and the Wilderness are just that good that other auto makers are having to mimic their competition... seems quite unoriginal, but I guess it will draw more folks to the space. Could also prompt Subaru to keep the edge above.

I'll have to CHECK THAT OUT!

 

I have owned Subaru's since 2000 and my wife has one now- But when my neighbor purchased a 22 Mazda CX-5 i really liked it- I read the reviews, It was well liked and I actually liked the fact it had a real transmission. So I checked it out, I cancelled my Subaru order and bought one.. So far so good. While it's AWD system may not be as good I mostly stay on road with just a few trips to the campground which it can easily do.

But the interior is solid. No gaps, No squeaks and everything feels more solid then any of my Subaru's ever did- Mind you I am still a huge Subaru fan but Mazda does some things better for example a real Heads up display- No just LED lights, A very nice driving experience and when you need power, the kickdown is quite impressive for a 2.5 liter engine.

In three years it will be time for a new vehicle, Who knows what will happen then but I am glad I took a chance and left the brand I was loyal to 20+ years.

 

oh, it only has a 15.8 gallon tank, and a 458 mile range

...whiners unite. !!

2023 Mazda CX-50 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition Full Specs, Features and Price

Check out the full specs of the 2023 Mazda CX-50 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition, from performance and fuel economy to colors and materials

carbuzz.com

 

Plenty of folks like sedans - they handle better, are more efficient, and equally (for me) as comfortable. I've been in 4Runners since 1998, and love the SUV and the wagon. We're now in an Outback for the family hauler, but our Mazda 6 is infinitely better from a handling, performance, and efficiency perspective. And, the trunk is deeper than your Forester - not as high. We, generally try not to pack above the rear seat height in the Outback, so not gaining a ton of room beyond the Mazda. And, the Mazda is so much more fun to drive than the Outback - on road, anyway

What I don't understand is crossover vehicles with super short hatch space - thinking Mazda CX5. That trunk/hatch area is way to short front to back to really be useful the way a true wagon or SUV is. That's also why we went with an Outback rather than the Forester. Not a deep enough trunk to haul around our dog crate in many of the "crossover" vehicles. Some of the CUV's aren't very useful with highly sloped rear ends, you lose much of the practicality that was so good in a true SUV or wagon.

 

The Mazda is much more fun to drive then any Subaru- No doubt there for sure. I enjoyed my Forester's but I can fit my bike in the Outback w\o removing the front tire.. makes it a bit easier

 

I looked at a Mazda many times from the limited availabililty Mazda 323 AWD Turbo, to the Mazda Protege 5, and Mazda 3, the Mazdaspeed 3 and the CX5 and CX-50. All had advantages and disadvantages. All those times were before I had a Subaru.

My sister has had a number of Mazda 3s 5-doors (all with a 5 speed manual), with the most recent having 187K on it. It has a deceptively large cargo capacity and is still peppy and fun to drive.

Where I believe Subaru has a big advantage is with the Outback and its STANDARD AWD at all levels from Base to Touring, it offers a lot of value (and cargo room) at all levels without losing the hallmark AWD. With Mazda, (and many other marques), it is difficult to get higher performance and/or AWD without a large increase in price as they bundle a raft of luxury add-ons, usually in packages that preclude skipping some of the less desirable ones to get the truly practical or more performance-related features.

For me, I would have loved to see an XT engine option in the Premium version of the OB (or the Crosstrek Sport level of that car) without a lot of the other features of the Limited or higher levels.

 

The Onyx XT is the closest thing to a Premium XT

 

And now for 2023, it's an almost $8k increase over the Premium. That's a huge increase just to get into the 2.4L wheezer camp! 😕

 

When I owned my BMW honestly it never needed anything other then oil, tires etc and it ran to 155K with no problems, I have had Subaru's that have failed far sooner- wheel bearings, head gaskets etc so Subaru is not always cheaper to maintain.

Even though I like Subaru vehicles a lot- I have had both decent ones and one's so troublesome they get traded in at 36 months or less.

 

This is a solid post…so many people are blinded by brand loyalty that they don’t want to acknowledge the flaws it has. I’ve owned dozens of cars…and they ALL have had some issues.

 

Resale would suck being a Mazda!!

 

Resale would suck being a Mazda!!
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Not really- both models do better then the average vehicle- But really both of them seem decent for resale...