Mazda CX-5 Review: The Compact SUV That Outdrives Its Class

In the fiercely competitive compact SUV segment dominated by practical but often bland offerings, the Mazda CX-5 emerges as a refreshing exception. Combining near-luxury refinement with sporty handling dynamics rarely found in family-oriented crossovers, the CX-5 delivers an ownership experience that transcends its affordable price point. This comprehensive review examines what makes the Mazda CX-5 stand out from rivals like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Volkswagen Tiguan.

Audi A4 2.0 TFSI quattro Premium Plus

$20998

87523 mi mi

Fair Deal  

0 (5)

Audi e-tron GT

$15773427

electric

54466 mi

Fair Deal  

0 (5)

2024 Honda Prologue

$40948

electric

2943 mi

Very Good Deal  

0 (5)

See More

Performance That Defies SUV Expectations

Mazda's reputation for crafting engaging driver's cars shines through in the CX-5's road manners. The steering provides exceptional feedback and precision that rivals sports sedans, while the well-tuned suspension strikes an ideal balance between comfort and cornering composure. Unlike many competitors that prioritize softness over responsiveness, the CX-5 delivers driving enjoyment without compromising everyday usability.

Powertrain Options

The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 187 horsepower - adequate for daily commuting but hardly exhilarating. The available turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder transforms the CX-5's character, delivering 227 horsepower on regular fuel or 250 horsepower with premium. While fuel economy suffers slightly with the turbo (22/27/24 mpg city/highway/combined), the added thrust makes highway merging and passing maneuvers effortless.

The six-speed automatic transmission outperforms the CVTs found in many rivals, with quick, decisive shifts that complement the CX-5's sporty nature. While an eight-speed unit might improve efficiency slightly, the current transmission's reliability and responsiveness make it an excellent match for both engines.

--TOP ADVERTISEMENT HERE--

Luxury-Level Refinement in a Mainstream Package

Where the CX-5 truly distances itself from competitors is in its upscale cabin presentation. Even base models feature soft-touch materials and thoughtful design elements typically reserved for premium brands. Step up to the Signature trim, and you'll find authentic wood accents, Nappa leather upholstery, and meticulous attention to detail that rivals luxury marques costing thousands more.

2020 Lincoln Aviator

$40843

Gas

25714 mi

Very Good Deal  

0 (5)

2023 Acura MDX

$48995

Gas

19096 mi

Good Deal  

0 (5)

2023 Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron

$39651

electric

14310 mi

Good Deal  

0 (5)

See More

Trim Levels and Pricing

Mazda offers the CX-5 in five well-equipped trim levels, each building on the last with additional luxury and technology features:

--FIRST CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--

Safety and Technology Features

The CX-5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, the highest possible honor. Standard safety equipment includes:

• Smart City Brake Support (automatic emergency braking)
• Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
• Lane Departure Warning and Lane-Keep Assist (available on most trims)
• Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go functionality

While the 7-inch infotainment display feels small compared to newer systems, Mazda's interface remains intuitive once learned. The available 10-speaker Bose audio system delivers excellent sound quality, while the head-up display projects critical driving information directly in the driver's sightline.

How It Compares to Key Rivals

Against segment leaders, the CX-5 carves out a unique niche:

• vs Honda CR-V: The CR-V offers more cargo space and rear legroom, but can't match the CX-5's driving dynamics or interior refinement
• vs Toyota RAV4: The RAV4 provides superior fuel economy and hybrid options, but feels utilitarian compared to the CX-5's premium ambiance
• 

  2018 Acura ILX

  $64030

  Gas

  45002 mi

  Good Deal  

  4 (5)

  

  MINI Cooper S 4-Door Hatchback FWD

  $35860

  20 mi

  Very Good Deal  

  0 (5)

  

  Chrysler Pacifica Touring L FWD

  $19375

  Gas

  93184 mi

  Good Deal  

  0 (5)

  See More
  
  
• vs Volkswagen Tiguan: The Tiguan's third-row seat adds flexibility, but the CX-5 delivers more engaging handling and higher-quality materials
• vs Subaru Forester: The Forester boasts superior visibility and standard AWD, but lacks the CX-5's upscale personality
• 
  

Final Verdict

The Mazda CX-5 represents one of the most compelling choices in the compact SUV segment for buyers who refuse to sacrifice driving enjoyment for practicality. While it gives up some cargo space and rear seat room to class leaders, it more than compensates with premium-level refinement, standout styling, and handling that shames many sports sedans. The available turbocharged engine transforms the CX-5 into a genuinely quick crossover, while the luxurious Signature trim offers near-Acura/Lexus levels of sophistication at thousands less.

For shoppers prioritizing driving dynamics and upscale ambiance over maximum cargo capacity, the CX-5 stands as the clear class leader. Even against newer competitors, Mazda's focus on the driver experience and premium detailing keeps the CX-5 at the forefront of the compact SUV category.

--SECOND CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--