Mazda specs Falken Wildpeak A/T on CX-50 crossover

IRVINE, Calif. — Mazda North American Operations has selected the Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail tire as the original equipment fitment on the Meridian Edition of the 2023 Mazda CX-50 compact crossover.

The CX-50 is a new model from Mazda that offers a rugged style and cargo space optimized for rear seat comfort and loading more outdoor equipment, according to Sumitomo Rubber North America Inc., distributor of the Falken brand.

The four-door, five-passenger CX-50 liftback will offer more off-road and towing capabilities — up to 3,500 pounds with the turbo motor — to those seeking more adventure without giving up the smooth-riding and sporty qualities typically associated with Mazda vehicles.

The Meridian Edition is part of the CX-50 Turbo line-up and includes Mazda's i-Activ All-Wheel Drive system, with 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped with the Wildpeak A/T Trail tires, size 225/60R18, and features two exterior paint color options with unique hood graphics.

Mazda also indicated it will offer an Apex Package that will add roof-mounted crossbars, a roof platform and additional outdoor accessories.

Sales of the new vehicle begin this fall. Pricing will start at $28,025.

"As Mazda seeks to build a stronger relationship with customers who want an aggressive and authentic crossover that can take them down trails to campsites and riverbeds, the logical tire to partner with is Falken's Wildpeak A/T Trail," Cliff Stewart, director, original equipment sales, Falken Tires, said, adding that Mazda noted the tire's sidewall design and meeting its high engineering standards in its selection of the product for the CX-50.

SRNA's OE relationship with Mazda also includes fitments on the CX-9 and MX-30 EV, Stewart noted.

The Wildpeak A/T Trail features a two-ply polyester construction and rugged upper sidewall features designed to protect the A/T Trail from off-road terrain, while an optimized tread design helps maintain the efficiency and versatility attributed to the CX-50 Meridian Edition.

SRNA claims the A/T Trail strikes the "perfect balance" between aggressive off-road traction and dependable, all-weather performance.