Mazda continues to refine its popular CX-5 compact SUV, and the 2021 model year brings notable enhancements, including a striking new Carbon Edition. Building on the CX-5’s reputation for engaging driving dynamics and sophisticated design, the 2021 lineup introduces a larger, more intuitive infotainment system, advanced safety features, and the uniquely styled Carbon Edition, designed to capture attention. With a starting MSRP of $25,370, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 aims to deliver even greater value and appeal in the competitive compact SUV segment.
2021 Mazda CX-5 Front View
The 2021 Mazda CX-5 Sport trim sets a high standard with an array of premium features now included as standard. The most prominent upgrade is the all-new 10.25-inch center display, showcasing the latest Mazda Connect infotainment system. This system offers a user-friendly interface and enhanced connectivity with standard Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ integration. Furthermore, Mazda is providing a three-year trial of Mazda Connected Services, allowing owners to remotely monitor and control vehicle functions through the MyMazda app. A Wi-Fi hotspot trial is also included, offering three months or 2GB of data, whichever comes first, to keep occupants connected on the go.
Complementing the advanced technology is the CX-5’s engaging driving experience, powered by the naturally aspirated Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine produces 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, providing responsive performance with either regular or premium fuel. The engine is paired with a smooth and quick-shifting six-speed automatic transmission featuring manual shift and sport modes, giving drivers more control. While front-wheel drive is standard, Mazda’s i-Activ all-wheel drive system with off-road traction assist is available across all trim levels, enhancing capability and confidence in various driving conditions.
Safety remains a priority for Mazda, and the 2021 CX-5 comes standard with the i-Activsense suite of safety features. This comprehensive suite includes Mazda Radar Cruise Control with stop and go, Advanced Smart City Brake Support with Pedestrian Detection, Smart Brake Support, Lane Departure Warning with Lane-Keep Assist, and Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. Additional standard features include a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, High Beam Control, Bluetooth connectivity, two front USB inputs, push-button start, electronic parking brake, remote keyless entry, rearview camera, LED headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels, a rear roof spoiler, and rain-sensing windshield wipers.
Moving up to the CX-5 Touring trim adds further refinement and comfort. Heated front seats, leatherette seats with Lux Suede inserts, and dual-zone automatic climate control elevate the interior ambiance. Rear passengers benefit from air conditioning vents, a center armrest, and two USB charging ports. Additional upgrades include Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry, rear privacy glass, a six-speaker sound system, and auto-leveling LED headlights.
For those seeking even more premium features in the Touring trim, the available Touring Preferred SV Package is a worthwhile addition. This package enhances the CX-5 Touring with a Bose® 10-speaker premium audio system, leather seats, a power liftgate, a power moonroof, an auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink®, a six-way power passenger seat, and an eight-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support and memory positioning.
The highly anticipated addition to the 2021 CX-5 lineup is the Carbon Edition. This trim level shares many features with the CX-5 Touring with the Touring Preferred SV Package but distinguishes itself with exclusive styling cues. The Carbon Edition boasts a Polymetal Gray exterior paint finish, complemented by gloss black door mirrors and distinctive 19-inch black metallic aluminum alloy wheels.
2021 Mazda CX-5 Front View
Inside, the Carbon Edition features striking red leather seats and black honeycomb interior trim on the dashboard and door panels, creating a sporty and sophisticated cabin atmosphere. Red stitching on the leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob further accentuates the unique color scheme. The 2021 Mazda Cx-5 Carbon Edition offers two powertrain options to cater to different preferences. The standard engine is the naturally aspirated Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter, providing a balance of performance and efficiency. For those seeking more power, the CX-5 Carbon Edition Turbo is available, equipped with the Skyactiv-G 2.5 Turbo engine. This turbocharged engine delivers up to 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel, or 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft on regular fuel, offering exhilarating performance. The Carbon Edition Turbo models are also distinguished by a unique badge, indicating the upgraded powertrain.
The CX-5 Grand Touring trim further enhances the features of the Touring trim with both interior and exterior upgrades. Inside, occupants enjoy the Bose® 10-speaker audio system, leather seats, a power moonroof, paddle shifters on the steering wheel, a seven-inch TFT reconfigurable digital gauge display, an auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink®, and SiriusXM® satellite radio with a three-month trial. Exterior enhancements include a power liftgate, LED taillights, fog lights, daytime running lights, an Adaptive Front-lighting System, dual heated door mirrors, and 19-inch brilliant silver aluminum alloy wheels. The CX-5 Grand Touring is exclusively powered by the naturally aspirated Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter engine.
Stepping up to the CX-5 Grand Touring Reserve brings a significant performance upgrade with the standard inclusion of the Skyactiv-G 2.5 Turbo engine and i-Activ all-wheel drive, along with a new turbo badge. The driving experience is further enhanced by the windshield-projected Active Driving Display. Traffic Sign Recognition is available as an accessory with the optional Mazda Navigation System. Additional premium features include ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, automatic folding door mirrors, and a windshield wiper de-icer.
At the top of the lineup, the CX-5 Signature trim represents the pinnacle of luxury and advanced technology. New i-Activsense safety features, including Smart City Brake Support Reverse and Driver Attention Alert, are added, along with an upgraded 360° View Monitor with front and rear parking sensors featuring high-definition digital clarity. The CX-5 Signature also includes the Mazda Navigation System with Traffic Sign Recognition and a SiriusXM® three-year traffic and travel link subscription. The interior is appointed with Caturra Brown Nappa leather seats, genuine layered wood trim, a frameless auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink®, ambient LED interior lighting, 19-inch dark silver aluminum alloy wheels, a black headliner, and Signature trim badging.
Here’s the MSRP for the 2021 Mazda CX-5 trim levels:
| Front-Wheel Drive | i-Activ All-Wheel Drive | |
|---|---|---|
| CX-5 Sport | $25,370 | $26,770 |
| CX-5 Touring | $27,110 | $28,510 |
| Touring Preferred SV Package | $1,445 | $1,445 |
| CX-5 Carbon Edition | $28,955 | $30,355 |
| CX-5 Carbon Edition Turbo | $30,760 | $32,160 |
| CX-5 Grand Touring | $30,560 | $31,960 |
| GT Premium Package | $1,625 | $1,625 |
| CX-5 Grand Touring Reserve | – | $35,385 |
| CX-5 Signature | – | $37,505 |
Premium paint options include Soul Red Crystal Metallic ($595), Machine Gray Metallic ($495), and Snowflake White Pearl Mica ($395).
The 2021 Mazda CX-5, particularly the new Carbon Edition, offers a compelling blend of style, technology, and driving enjoyment in the compact SUV segment. With its enhanced features and distinctive design, the CX-5 continues to be a standout choice for those seeking a vehicle that is both practical and engaging.
