The 2022 model year saw the Mazda product lineup get a little smaller when the Japanese automaker discontinued the Mazda6 sedan and CX-3 subcompact crossover. For 2023, the brand holds steady, making only minor updates across the lineup.
Most of the changes happen to the Mazda3 sedan, Mazda 3 hatchback, and the CX-30 crossover. Both models get powertrain improvements, while the Mazda3 also reshuffles its trim levels based on driveline offerings. The other notable addition to the portfolio is the addition of the CX-50's new Meridian trim level, making this crossover more of a standout than before. Lastly, the CX-9 enters its final year with minor changes. Mazda has confirmed a CX-9 replacement is on the way for 2024.
Listed below are changes to all the 2023 Mazda models.
The Mazda3 sedan and hatchback undergo minor changes for 2023. The naturally aspirated Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter engine receives a 5-horsepower increase and now produces 191 hp and 186 pound-feet of torque. Additionally, this engine features updated cylinder-deactivation technology designed to be more efficient in specific operating conditions, leading to improved fuel economy.
Mazda reorganized the Mazda3's trim levels based on driveline offerings. The Mazda3 2.5 S Preferred is now offered only in front-wheel drive (FWD). Mazda now offers the Mazda3 2.5 S Carbon Edition—both the hatchback and the sedan—in all-wheel-drive (AWD) format alongside the FWD models. Also, the Mazda3 2.5 S Premium hatchback and sedan now feature standard AWD. And the FWD 2.5 S Premium hatchback now offers a Skyactiv-MT 6-speed manual transmission. Lastly, the standard Mazda3 2.5 Turbo will only be available in hatchback format. However, Mazda continues to offer the Premium Plus trim for the Turbo as a hatchback or sedan.
The CX-30 crossover arrives for 2023 with a few mindful changes. On the powertrain side, the naturally aspirated Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter engine receives a 5-hp boost, making 191 hp and 186 pound-feet of torque. At the same time, EPA fuel economy increases by 2 mpg city and highway, one mpg combined. Mazda discontinues the base Turbo model for 2023.
Regarding feature content changes, the CX-30 2.5 S, 2.5 S Select, 2.5 S Preferred, and 2.5 S Carbon Edition drop their manual-leveling LED headlights. Mazda also updates all versions of the 2023 CX-30 to be compliant with the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) newest safety protocols. The automaker also adds new rear seat belt pre-tensioners and rear side airbags for second-row passengers.
The Mazda CX-5 compact crossover carries over for 2023. The only change to report is regarding exterior paint colors; Rhodium White premium paint replaces Snowflake Pearl Mica.
The CX-50 is the more outdoorsy and adventurous stablemate to the CX-5 crossover. For 2023, it returns with a new trim level called the Meridian Edition.
It features exclusive black metallic 18-inch wheels and Falken all-terrain tires. Mazda also equips the SUV with all-new headlight garnish, unique Meridian Edition-branded matte black hood graphic, black wheel locks and lug nuts, and side rocker panels. An optional Apex package upgrade for Meridian Edition customers includes roof-mounted black crossbars, a roof platform, and both front and rear splash guards.
On the performance side, the Meridian Edition features Mazda's standard i-Activ AWD system and Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine (256 hp and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium 93-octane fuel or 227 hp and 310 pound-feet on regular 87-octane fuel).
The long-standing CX-9 enters its final model year for 2023. Mazda promises a replacement is on the way for the 2024 model year. In the meantime, the 3-row crossover returns with no significant updates aside from the Touring trim becoming a new standard offering. This means that second-row captain's chairs, LED fog lights, a power moonroof, and a wireless phone charger are all standard. All other trims—Touring Plus, Carbon Edition, Grand Touring, and Signature—are carried over.
Debuting for the 2022 model year, the Mazda MX-30 compact crossover became the brand's first electric vehicle. Although it returns to the Mazda lineup for 2023, no information on changes or new packaging was available as we published this article.
The iconic MX-5 Miata roadster returns for 2023 as a carryover model. Aside from the addition of Zircon Sand Metallic exterior paint and the removal of Polymetal Grey, there are no changes in design, features, or packaging.
Mazda is the source of information in this article. It was accurate on November 18, 2022, but it may have changed since that date. Always confirm product details and availability with the automaker's website or your local dealership.
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