The Mazda CX-5[https://www.mazdausa.com/vehicles/cx-5] has long been a standout crossover, earning numerous Car and Driver 10Best awards. As it enters its seventh year, the CX-5 remains a strong contender despite newer rivals. It offers a refined driving experience with a 187-hp inline-four engine and an available 256-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter powertrain. Unlike many competitors, it uses a traditional six-speed automatic transmission instead of a CVT, enhancing its driving dynamics. Though it sacrifices some space for style, the CX-5’s luxurious interior and agile handling make it a worthy choice, earning it a spot on the 2024 Editors’ Choice list.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
Pricing for the 2024 Mazda CX-5 starts at $30,675 and goes up to $41,975 depending on trim and options.
What’s new for 2024?
As it did for the CX-30 crossover and the CX-3 sedan and hatchback, Mazda will add a Carbon Turbo trim level to the CX-5 in 2024. Trim parts, including wheels and mirror caps. Carbon Turbo models come with an optional 256-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-four engine and all-wheel drive.
Overview
The Mazda CX-5 is a popular compact crossover SUV known for its stylish design, engaging driving dynamics, and upscale interior. Here is an overview:
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo:
First-rate materials and a stunning layout make it feel particularly high-end. The floor-mounted accelerator pedal feels better than the more common version that hangs above the floor, the well-designed steering wheel is directly in front of the driver and not at a slight angle, and all front seats have armrests. . At the same height for maximum comfort.
Sacrifices come in small packages. In this case, the CX-5 only accommodated nine carry-on suitcases behind its rear seats in our testing. The storage bay benefits from a fully flat loading floor. The cabin also has several nooks and crannies for storing smartphones and other small items. For example, there’s a deep tray in front of the center console and a utility bin with removable shelves.
Infotainment and Connectivity:
Each model gets a 10.3-inch infotainment display that primarily connects via a rotary controller and volume knob on the center console. The interface also works through voice commands and buttons on the steering wheel. Apple Car Play and Android Auto are standard across the board. The CX-5 comes with Mazda Connected Services, which includes access to the vehicle’s remote functions via a smartphone app and a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG:
With two engine options, the CX-5 has two fuel economy ratings. The base 2.5-liter engine is rated at 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. The more powerful turbocharged engine is rated at 22 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. We tested both on our 75-mph highway route, part of our extensive testing regimen, and the standard engine returned 32 mpg compared to the turbo-four’s 30 mpg results.
Towing and Payload Capacity:
The Mazda CX-5 can tow up to 2000 pounds, which isn’t much, but it’s an improvement over some of its competitors, like the Volkswagen Tiguan and Honda CR-V. The bigger CX-50 can tow more, with a maximum trailering capacity of 3500 pounds, but that’s only if it’s optioned with the turbo engine; otherwise, it’s the same as the CX-5.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features:
The CX-5 comes standard with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technology and a few other optional aids. For more information on the CX-5’s crash test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s (IIHS) websites. Important safety features include:
- Standard automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Standard lane departure warning and lane-keeping assistance
- Standard adaptive cruise control
Mazda CX-5 Spacifications
Vehicle Type |
SUV | Tires |
P225/55R-19 99Z M+S |
Engine |
turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head | Wheelbase |
106.2 in |
Fuel type |
Direct fuel injection | Length |
180.1 in |
Displacement |
152 in., 2488 cm3 | Width |
72.6 in |
Power |
256 hp @ 5000 rpm | Height |
66.3 in |
Torque |
320 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm | Braking |
70–0 mph: 185 ft |
Transmission |
6-speed automatic | Rolling Start |
5–60 mph: 6.7 sec |