Mazda i-Activ AWD Explained

The all-new, 2023 Mazda CX-50 and all CX models from 2022 forward, come equipped with Mazda’s i-Activ AWD. This advanced all-wheel drive system is predictive, meaning that it doesn’t spin all four wheels all the time. Instead, a collection of sensors read road conditions, driver inputs, environmental metrics (like air temperature and humidity level) to transfer power where it’s needed.

All of this processing is done in milliseconds and the result is a smooth, stable ride in all weather conditions. Plus, Mazda has done all of this without sacrificing fuel efficiency. The difference between the FWD and AWD platforms is only about one mpg.

[michaeldandrea]

I live in western Pennsylvania(Pittsburgh) where the weather changes daily in winter . Prior to my Mazda CX30 I owned an Audi A4 Quattro and have been pleasantly surprised that Mazda's all wheel drive system is nearly identical in performance to Audi. In fact, I say nearly identical because Mazda's system is a little more sensitive and a little quicker to respond to loss of traction or stability than Audi. I purchased my Cx30 because of nothing but positive experience with Mazda vehicles( 3 RX7's, MX6, and a CX 5) the performance of the AWD system came as an added bonus. In my humble opinion, the most under rated mass produced vehicles on the planet!

[Taras-Nabad]

That was a good one, who needs AWD in Florida.

[stuartaaron]

Nice video. As a Mazda driver (I lease a 2020 CX-5 Touring FWD) living in Palm Beach County I can agree about the superiority of the Mazda AWD system. Prior to the 2020 CX-5 I had a lease on a 2018 CX-5 Touring AWD, which I leased when I lived in New York (SNOW). When I turned in the 2018 for the 2020 I didn't think that I needed AWD in Florida. Well, while the Mazda traction control system is good, it isn't superior to their AWD system in the rain that we get down here.

[eugenegutierrez]

No offense I still like AWD on Subaru. I don’t like it when Mazda has to split the torque distribution in front or rear. I active AWD it’s called vectoring

[G-Man]

Pretty sure this is 4wd not awd?
Particularly since these are common cars that will send power to the front wheels most of the time. They should not be called AWD.

[azarahwagner]

😂😂😂 Who are you kidding
Blown head gasket, leaking cold plugs, transmission issues …. Legal issues…
Everything went downhill after 2016