After all, this publication frequently derides and mocks the CX-5's dull segment. At the same time, the Mazda comes alive on curvy roads for a joyous driving experience.Perhaps you're wondering how a compact crossover like the Mazda CX-5 lands on a list of our favorites. Pavement imperfections are isolated, road noise is minimal, and the damping is neither stiff nor floaty. But it also soaks up rough roads without commotion and has the ride quality of crossovers that cost twice as much. Sure, its precise steering and composed cornering make for one helluva Sunday cruise. You don’t need to drive the CX-5 hard to appreciate its excellence. Snappy low-speed throttle response is satisfying, but the engine loses gumption on the highway, leaving us thirsty for thrust. The CX-5’s lone engine is Mazda’s familiar 187-hp 2.5-liter inline-four, and it drives through a quick-shifting six-speed automatic transmission and either front- or all-wheel drive. The CX-5 is slightly longer and wider and has a lower center of gravity for better handling and further driving fun-but its lower roofline and other interior revisions have reduced cargo volume.
Aside from the gorgeous new sheetmetal and sharply redesigned interior, it rides on a similar platform and uses the familiar Mazda 2.5-liter inline-four. What's New for 2017?Īlthough the CX-5 appears all new for 2017, it's actually a heavily revised version of the previous-generation model.
All in all, the CX-5 looks and feels like an upscale choice at a bargain price. Its precise steering and exceptional chassis provide levels of mechanical refinement and driving joy that are often reserved for higher-end vehicles.
Although not the most practical or feature-laden compact crossover, the CX-5 proves how much fun a small SUV can be to drive. A fuel-efficient inline-four transmits 187 horsepower to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission all-wheel drive is optional. The charismatic CX-5 crossover combines unrivaled driving enjoyment and rich-looking style, inside and out.