The Mazda CX-5 has consistently impressed in the crowded compact SUV segment, and after spending considerable time with the latest model, it’s clear why. Following my experience with the larger and equally impressive Mazda CX-9, it came as no surprise that the CX-5 embodies the same winning formula: a vehicle that’s beautifully designed, wonderfully crafted, and genuinely enjoyable to drive. In a market saturated with competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, the CX-5 stands out, offering a level of sophistication and driving dynamics that puts it in a league of its own. It’s a vehicle that doesn’t just compete; it sets a new benchmark.
Luxurious Interior and Comfort
Drawing visual cues from its larger sibling, the CX-9, the CX-5 boasts Mazda’s signature Kodo design language, resulting in an exterior that’s both elegant and athletic. Especially when finished in the striking Soul Red Crystal Metallic, the CX-5 exudes a premium feel that many rivals struggle to match. Mazda has carved out a niche for themselves by delivering luxury-infused interiors in vehicles that remain accessibly priced. The CX-5 Signature trim exemplifies this philosophy, enveloping occupants in an environment that rivals luxury marques from Germany. The cabin is adorned with high-quality materials, meticulously crafted details, and an overall sense of refinement that elevates the driving experience. While the leather seats in our test vehicle felt a touch slippery initially, this could be attributed to the low mileage and newness of the car.
Comfort is paramount in the CX-5, with ample space for passengers in all seats. While the RAV4 might offer slightly more cargo room, the CX-5 remains a true compact SUV, resisting the trend of ever-increasing vehicle sizes. The focus here is on quality over sheer quantity. Sitting inside, especially after experiencing competitors, the Mazda’s interior genuinely feels a class above, providing a legitimately luxurious ambiance. And this is just the beginning; the true magic of the CX-5 lies in its driving dynamics. While the Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe are worthy contenders, they’ll need to deliver something exceptional to surpass the overall refinement of the CX-5.
Driving Dynamics: A Class-Leading Experience
What truly distinguishes the Mazda CX-5 is its exceptional performance on the road. Whether cruising on the highway or tackling winding backroads, the CX-5 delivers a driving experience that’s rare in the crossover segment. On the highway, the CX-5 tracks straight and true, with remarkably low levels of noise intrusion, creating a serene, luxury car-like environment. When the roads get twisty, the CX-5 transforms into an engaging and surprisingly agile machine. It attacks corners with an eagerness that belies its SUV classification.
The steering is precise and responsive, offering keen turn-in and a willingness to change direction that’s truly impressive for a vehicle of this type. Body control is equally commendable, remaining composed even when pushed harder than typical SUV drivers might dare. Remarkably, this dynamic prowess doesn’t come at the expense of ride comfort. The suspension manages to absorb bumps and road imperfections with ease, delivering a smooth and compliant ride in everyday driving.
Pushing the CX-5 on a looping freeway on-ramp reveals its playful adjustability. Entering a corner with a steady throttle application induces a hint of understeer, easily corrected by a slight lift off the accelerator. This lift initiates a touch of lift-off oversteer, helping to tuck the nose in and rotate the rear, aligning the car perfectly for a throttle-down exit. These kinds of nuanced handling characteristics are what set Mazda vehicles apart. Mazda’s intelligent all-wheel-drive system further enhances grip and power delivery, ensuring confident handling in various driving conditions.
Potent Turbocharged Engine and Performance
Under the hood, this CX-5 is equipped with the newer 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine. This powerplant delivers a robust 250 horsepower and a substantial 310 lb-ft of torque when using premium fuel (227 hp on regular gas). These figures significantly outclass the top-tier engines offered by competitors like the CR-V and RAV4. The performance numbers speak for themselves: 0-60 mph arrives in a brisk 6.4 seconds, and 50-70 mph acceleration takes just 3.4 seconds. In contrast, a RAV4 struggles to break the 8-second mark to 60 mph. The CX-5 offers not only superior handling but also genuinely impressive acceleration.
The CX-5 utilizes a conventional six-speed automatic transmission, a departure from the eight-speed units and CVTs increasingly common in modern vehicles. However, this older six-speed proves to be a willing partner, providing smooth and quick shifts that perfectly complement the turbocharged engine’s power delivery. It’s particularly responsive in manual mode, catering to drivers who enjoy a more engaging driving experience. Mazda’s engine design incorporates an unusually high compression ratio for a turbocharged engine, resulting in crisp throttle response and a sense of immediacy. The abundant torque on tap translates to impressive flexibility, with strong horsepower available across a wide RPM range. Even in a higher gear at moderate speeds, a sharp press of the accelerator unleashes a surge of effortless acceleration.
Fuel Economy Considerations
Fuel economy is the one area where the CX-5 doesn’t quite lead the pack, but it still delivers respectable numbers. Cruising at 70 mph yielded 30 mpg, and overall mixed driving averaged around 24 mpg during our test. While the six-speed automatic performs admirably, its higher engine speeds at highway velocities likely contribute to slightly reduced fuel efficiency compared to transmissions with more gears. A seven-speed transmission with an added overdrive gear could potentially improve high-speed fuel economy. While rivals might offer marginally better fuel consumption, they often sacrifice the exhilarating performance and driving enjoyment that the CX-5 delivers in spades.
Pricing and Verdict: Unmatched Value and Driving Pleasure
The as-tested price of this CX-5 Signature comes in at $39,225. While not the absolute cheapest option in the segment, it represents exceptional value, especially when considering the level of luxury and performance on offer. A comparably equipped RAV4 Limited can easily exceed $40,000, while a less refined CR-V still approaches the $36,000 mark. The primary reason to consider alternatives to the Mazda CX-5 would be if a hybrid powertrain is a priority, an area where Toyota and Honda currently hold an advantage. However, even a brief drive in the CX-5 is enough to reveal its unique appeal and class-leading capabilities.
The Road Beat Rating: 4.5/5
As-Tested Price: $39,225
Pros: Stellar interior, engaging handling, and potent performance.
Cons: Fuel economy lags slightly behind some rivals.
Verdict: Continuing Mazda’s tradition, the CX-5 stands as the best vehicle in its class, offering an unmatched blend of luxury, driving dynamics, and value.
