Mazda CX-5 Review: The Best New Vehicle Nobody Knows About?

Why the Mazda CX-5?

• 🚗 The owner chose the Mazda CX-5 over a Toyota Camry because it was $15,000 cheaper and available immediately, unlike the 6-month wait for the Toyota.
• 🎯 The CX-5 is Mazda's best-selling compact SUV, known for its reliability and value.

Engine and Drivetrain

• ⚙️ Features a 2.5L Skyactiv-G normally aspirated engine without a turbo, emphasizing reliability over raw power.
• 🔧 Mazda has improved significantly over the years, addressing past issues with automatic transmissions and head gaskets, partly due to sharing technology with Toyota.
• 🛢️ A welcome feature is the transmission fluid dipstick, allowing owners to check fluid condition easily, a step away from planned obsolescence.
• ❄️ The CX-5 comes standard with all-wheel drive, which is beneficial in snowy conditions but requires replacing all four tires simultaneously if one wears out.

Interior and Features

• 🛋️ The interior is described as luxurious and comfortable, with leatherette seats and a well-positioned infotainment screen that doesn't obstruct the driver's view.
• 🛡️ A key advantage is that all safety features come standard, unlike some competitors where they are optional extras.
• 🚦 Features include intelligent cruise control, manual shifting capabilities, and an electric parking brake with auto-hold.

Driving Experience

• 💨 The 2.5L engine provides smooth acceleration, with the 6-speed automatic transmission shifting almost imperceptibly.
• 🛣️ The ride is smooth and quiet, comparable to or better than rivals like the Toyota RAV4, offering a fun driving experience.
• 🇯🇵 Built in Japan, the CX-5 boasts high-quality paint and construction, reflecting Japanese manufacturing standards.

Value Proposition

• 💰 The CX-5 offers significant value, especially when compared to more expensive or hard-to-get alternatives like Toyota.
• ✅ It's recommended for its normally aspirated engine and actual automatic transmission with gears, offering longevity and easier maintenance than hybrids or turbocharged engines.
• 👍 For those seeking a reliable, well-built, and enjoyable compact SUV, the Mazda CX-5 is a strong contender, especially given its price point and standard features.