The Mazda CX-5 has consistently been praised as a standout in the crowded compact SUV segment. Having recently experienced Mazda’s larger CX-9, which impressed with its blend of luxury and driving dynamics, it’s no surprise that the CX-5 mirrors these qualities in a smaller package. In a market saturated with options like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, the Mazda CX-5 elevates itself, offering a driving experience and interior ambiance that its mainstream competitors struggle to match. It sets a high bar, much like a top athlete dominating their field.
Design and Interior Excellence
The CX-5’s design language is immediately recognizable as Mazda, echoing the sophisticated styling of the CX-9 but in a more compact form. Especially when finished in Mazda’s signature Soul Red paint, the CX-5 boasts an appealing aesthetic with its flowing lines and sculpted surfaces. Mazda has carved out a niche for themselves by delivering near-luxury interiors in vehicles that remain accessible in price. The CX-5 Signature trim exemplifies this, featuring an elegant cabin with materials that feel more akin to luxury marques from Germany. While the leather seats in the test vehicle felt a touch slippery, this might be attributed to the car’s newness, showing only 400 miles on the odometer.
Passenger comfort is prioritized throughout the CX-5, with ample space for occupants in all seats. While the RAV4 might offer a slightly larger cargo area, Mazda addresses the need for more space with the larger CX-9. The CX-5 remains true to the “compact” SUV designation, resisting the trend of ever-increasing vehicle sizes. Compared directly to the RAV4, the interior of the Mazda CX-5 is in a different class, providing a legitimately luxurious environment. And this is before even discussing its driving dynamics, which further set it apart from competitors like the Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe, both of which will need to bring their A-game to compete with the CX-5’s overall refinement.
Driving Dynamics That Excite
What truly distinguishes the Mazda CX-5 is its exceptional performance on any road. On highways, the CX-5 tracks straight and maintains a remarkably quiet cabin – genuinely approaching luxury car levels of quietness. When the roads turn winding, the CX-5 reveals its sporty character, eagerly attacking corners. The handling balance is surprisingly agile for a mid-size crossover. Turn-in is sharp, and the vehicle responds promptly to steering inputs. Body control is equally commendable, especially considering the suspension’s ability to absorb bumps and imperfections in normal driving, offering a smooth and compliant ride.
Testing the CX-5 on a looping freeway on-ramp highlighted its impressive adjustability. Entering a corner, applying progressive throttle induced a subtle understeer. As the corner tightened, easing off the throttle resulted in a touch of lift-off oversteer, helping the nose tuck in and rotate the rear for an optimal line towards the apex. This allows for an earlier application of the throttle and utilizing the turbocharged power all the way through the exit. These nuanced driving characteristics are what elevate Mazda vehicles above many competitors. The sophisticated Mazda all-wheel-drive system further enhances grip and power delivery in diverse driving conditions.
Turbocharged Power and Performance
The tested CX-5 was equipped with the upgraded 2.5L turbocharged inline-four engine, producing a robust 250 horsepower at 5,000 RPM on premium fuel (227 hp on regular) and an impressive 310 lb-ft of torque from just 2,000 RPM. These figures significantly outclass the top-tier engines offered in the CR-V or RAV4. Performance metrics validate this advantage, with a 0-60 MPH time of 6.4 seconds and 50-70 MPH acceleration in a mere 3.4 seconds. In contrast, a RAV4 struggles to reach 60 MPH in under 8 seconds. The CX-5 offers both engaging handling and brisk acceleration.
The CX-5 uses a conventional six-speed automatic transmission, in contrast to the more common eight-speed units or CVTs found in newer vehicles. However, this six-speed gearbox provides smooth and quick shifts, working harmoniously with the turbo engine’s power band. It’s also notably responsive to manual shift inputs in manumatic mode. Mazda’s turbocharged engine also employs a high compression ratio (for a boosted engine), contributing to quick throttle response and a sense of urgency. The ample torque output ensures the engine is flexible and delivers strong horsepower across a broad RPM range. Even locking the transmission in third gear at 50 MPH and flooring the accelerator results in immediate and potent acceleration.
Fuel Economy Considerations
Fuel economy is the only area where the CX-5 doesn’t lead the class, but it still offers respectable numbers. Cruising at 70 MPH yielded 30 MPG, and overall mixed driving averaged 24 MPG during the test. While the six-speed automatic performs admirably, it might contribute to slightly higher engine speeds at highway speeds, potentially impacting fuel efficiency. A seven-speed transmission with an added overdrive gear could potentially improve high-speed mileage. Competitors might achieve better fuel economy, but this often comes at the cost of the CX-5’s superior performance capabilities, which mainstream Honda and Toyota models simply cannot match in their standard configurations.
Pricing and Verdict
The Mazda CX-5 Signature as tested comes with a price of $39,225. While not the cheapest option, a RAV4 Limited can easily exceed $40,000, and a less equipped CR-V can approach $36,000. The primary reason to consider alternatives to the CX-5 would be if a hybrid powertrain is a priority, which both Toyota and Honda offer, delivering significant fuel economy gains. However, a short test drive in the CX-5 quickly reveals why it remains a highly desirable vehicle in its class.
The Road Beat Rating: 4.5/5
As-Tested Price: $39,225
Pros: Stellar interior, handling, and performance
Cons: Fuel economy can’t match rivals
Verdict: Like most Mazdas, it’s a top contender in its class, offering a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and driving enjoyment that sets it apart from the mainstream compact SUV crowd.
