The Mazda CX-5 has been in production since 2017, which is a long run by automotive industry standards. Despite the many newer compact crossover competitors, the CX-5 remains a standout for its sleek design and engaging driving experience.
Mazda introduced the slightly larger, pricier CX-50 in 2023, but it didn’t reduce the CX-5 lineup to accommodate the newcomer.
Instead, the CX-5 still offers eight trims, two four-cylinder engine options (including a turbocharged version), front- or all-wheel drive options, a refined interior, and an enjoyable drive.
While rivals like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 may have an edge in practicality, the CX-5 provides adequate space for most shoppers and pairs that with a spirited drive, making it one of the more compelling choices for driving enthusiasts in the compact crossover market.
What’s New for 2025?
The CX-5’s S trim makes a return as a more affordable base model, while the non-turbo Premium trim has been removed.
The Carbon Edition now includes wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless phone charging as standard.
The Premium Plus trim also gets a surround-view camera system and parking sensors, and all trims now use USB-C inputs for the front seats.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 starts at $29,990 and reaches up to $42,020, depending on trim and options:
- S: $29,990
- Select: $31,320
- Preferred: $32,670
- Carbon Edition: $34,020
- Premium Plus: $36,620
- Carbon Turbo: $38,420
- Turbo Premium: $39,220
- Turbo Signature: $42,020
The Turbo Premium trim is our top choice for its balance of performance and features. It includes a 256-hp turbocharged engine that enhances the CX-5’s responsive handling.
The exterior is accented with gloss-black trim specific to this model, while the interior features sporty red accents and stitching.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The CX-5’s standard 187-hp four-cylinder engine is responsive around town, giving the impression of greater speed than it actually achieves.
However, at highway speeds, it lacks power for passing or merging. The 256-hp turbocharged engine we tested offers notably quicker acceleration.
Both engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The CX-5 delivers an engaging driving experience, with precise steering and stable cornering, making it a joy for weekend drives.
Despite its sporty nature, it rides smoothly over rough roads, providing a comfortable experience more typical of higher-priced crossovers.
Road imperfections are effectively minimized, road noise is low, and the damping achieves a fine balance.
On curvy roads, the CX-5 truly shines with its responsive electric steering. The Signature model we tested had excellent brake-pedal feel, with prompt and well-modulated braking.
0-60 MPH Times
In Car and Driver tests, the CX-5 with its base engine took 8.1 seconds to reach 60 mph, comparable to the Honda CR-V and 0.2 seconds faster than the Toyota RAV4.
The turbocharged engine cuts this time to a brisk 6.2 seconds, making it the preferred choice for driving enthusiasts.
Towing and Payload Capacity
The Mazda CX-5 can tow up to 2,000 pounds, which, while modest, is still more than some competitors like the Volkswagen Tiguan and Honda CR-V.
The larger CX-50 can tow up to 3,500 pounds with its turbo engine, though without it, it matches the CX-5’s capacity.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The CX-5 offers two fuel-economy ratings depending on the engine. The standard 2.5-liter engine is rated at 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, while the turbocharged version is rated at 22 mpg city and 27 highway.
In our testing, the standard engine returned 32 mpg on our 75-mph highway test, with the turbocharged engine achieving 30 mpg. For more details, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Top-tier CX-5 models have interiors that may surprise occupants with an upscale feel, resembling those of premium brands like Audi or Mercedes.
High-quality materials and a thoughtful layout add to its luxurious feel.The floor-hinged accelerator pedal and a steering wheel positioned directly in front of the driver enhance driving comfort.
However, rear-seat space is adequate but not spacious, accommodating nine carry-on suitcases in the cargo area during our tests.
The rear cargo bay benefits from a completely flat load floor, and there are plenty of compartments for smaller items throughout the cabin, including a deep tray and a bin with a removable shelf in the center console.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Every CX-5 comes with a 10.3-inch infotainment display controlled through a rotary knob and volume knob on the center console, with additional controls on the steering wheel and voice commands.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across all trims. Mazda Connected Services offers remote vehicle functions through a smartphone app, and a Wi-Fi hotspot is available by subscription.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The CX-5 has a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and is equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, with additional assists available as options.
For more details on safety ratings, refer to the NHTSA and IIHS websites. Key safety features include:
- Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
- Standard adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Mazda’s warranty coverage is less extensive than that of some competitors, such as Kia and Hyundai, which also offer complimentary maintenance:
- Limited warranty: three years or 36,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty: five years or 60,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
