The Mazda CX-5 is an SUV that looks good and drives well. It comes with crisp steering, eager driving dynamics, and confidence-inspiring controls. What makes the Mazda CX-5 even better is that it offers all the features luxury cars have, but it's relatively more affordable.
The CX-5 is known for its redesigned comfortable ride quality, a nicer and quiet cabin, and advanced safety and technology features. But don't let its quiet cabin and refined interior distract you from the fact that it's an SUV. The only disadvantage of the car is that its engine didn't get an upgrade for some time. However, the car's performance is on par with the base engines on competing models.
The Mazda CX-5 strikes a superb mix of sportiness, comfort, and utility. The interior gives a reasonable amount of space, but it's not that generous inside. Although the interior has luxurious materials and the infotainment system is actually top tier. Its interior might be on par with other elegant SUVs, but the difference is that the CX-5 is cheaper.
Let's find out more about the CX-5 and how it does against its rivals.
Buying A Used Mazda CX-5: It Has A Mild Acceleration, But Mazda Made Sure The Car Has Superb Handling
Reviewers have praised the CX-5 for its outstanding handling features. The car is very smooth on many twisting roads, and a lot of SUVs can't compete with this. However, if you like prefer fast SUVs, the Mazda CX-5 will disappoint you because it won't get anywhere fast. The engine thrust is ultimately meek when you really push it. Otherwise, this is the perfect car for you if you like taking things slow.
Under the hood sits its 2.5-liter engine that provides the unsatisfying acceleration. Critics have said that it becomes a bit difficult when overtaking another vehicle on the highway. When tested, the car can go from 0 to 60 mph in 8.7 seconds. However, this is actually quick against competitors that have the same engine.
The steering is a bit heavy, but this doesn't make it difficult to turn. Maneuvering in parking lots is simple, and you'll know where the wheels are pointed at higher speeds. The braking is smooth thanks to the moderate pedal firmness and its predictable braking effort.
The SUV is sharp and communicative. It allows the driver to take corners at high speeds without the tires squealing. Also, the car is unfazed by quick direction turns. You won't feel like it's losing control like other cars. Mazda made sure that the CX-5 earned the right to be called the best-handling small crossover.
The CX-5 has an automatic transmission as standard. Under mild acceleration, the gearbox doesn't instantly shift into the highest gear, which improves daily maneuverability. It waits until the driver gives it the sign before downshifting. The transmission holds onto gears when in Sport mode until you completely let off the throttle.
Buying A Used Mazda CX-5: Like Most Luxury SUVs, It Has An Elegant Interior
Reviewers have said the cabin is excellent because it has amazing visibility and a splendid driving position. Mazda outdid themselves because the designers ensured a wide gap between the brake and dead pedals, which is beneficial for tall drivers.
For infotainment, all controls are within the driver's reach. Mazda introduced this feature that makes the center display lose touchscreen ability while the car is in motion so that the driver can use a simple knob that's near the shifter.
The CX-5's driver seat comes with a lot of vertical adjustment, and the front of the seat bottom raises justly high. The reason for this is to support drivers on long-distance drives. The steering wheel comes with a good range of tilt-and-telescoping adjustments.
The cabin is fairly spacious up front. There's enough headroom for tall drivers, even with the sunroof. The only drawback is that rear passengers might feel cramped because of the sculpted outboard seats. Also, the rear legroom might be a little tight for tall passengers.
One thing about the CX-5 that shocks a lot of owners is that everything in the cabin feels expensive. The leathers upholstery and switchgear look elegant. The only bummer is the malleable side bolsters that run against the center console. But apart from that, everything in the interior looks outstanding.
How The CX-5 Compares Against Its Competitors
First, you should know that the Mazda CX-5 is part of the compact crossover segment. This segment is one of the busiest in the North American auto industry, with nearly every major automaker offering an attractive vehicle.
Now all the cars in this segment offer fantastic features that would attract any consumer from that segment. The CX-5 is one of the popular models that consumers love and appreciate. But there are other vehicles that are better or on the same level as the CX-5.
One of the popular SUVs that rivals the CX-5 is the Nissan Rogue. The Nissan Rogue offers the same features that the CX-5 offers, and it is similarly sized. The Rogue has more power and precision than the CX-5, which is why it's a fierce rival.
But the CX-5 is fun to drive and has better handling than most compact crossovers. If you compare it to the Nissan Rogue, you'll see that the CX-5 is more capable and has a luxurious interior with advanced safety features and premium technology. The Nissan Rogue is cheaper than the Mazda CX-5, but with the CX-5, you get more key features inside and out.