History/Overview
Mazda got serious about its compact crossover game in 2013 with the CX-5, which replaced the Ford Escape-based Tribute. A second-generation CX-5 arrived in 2017.
What's New / Key Changes from Last Year
For 2018, Mazda has reworked the CX-5's engines to reduce friction and improve torque output. In addition, the uplevel 2.5L engine gets the option of fuel-saving cylinder deactivation.
The entry-level GX gains new standard features, mostly in the safety arena, which we'll detail below in the standard features section.
The most notable new option is the i-Activesense package, bundling more advanced driver assists with pedestrian detection.
Available Trims
Mazda offers the CX-5 in GX, GS and GT trims. GX starts with a 2.0L four-cylinder with a six-speed manual transmission. Option a GX to the six-speed automatic and it comes with a 2.5L engine; that combination is standard elsewhere across the range. GX and GS start with front-wheel drive; AWD is optional both and standard in the GT.
Standard Features
The Mazda CX-5's new standard features come in the form of safety kit, including city-speed collision detection and automatic braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, automatic on/off headlights and rain-sensing wipers, all of which migrate down from the GS trim.
On the outside, the Mazda CX-5 wears 17-inch alloy wheels and tires, keyless entry, LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, and heated/power-adjustable side mirrors.
Inside, you get push-button engine start, tilt-and-telescopic steering, cruise control, a four-speaker stereo, a 7.0-inch infotainment display, Bluetooth, and air conditioning.
GS trim adds a power tailgate, leatherette upholstery, heated front seats, a power driver's seat, a leather-trimmed and heated steering wheel, a leather-trimmed shifter, a front wiper de-icer, a 6-speaker stereo, auto-leveling headlights, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, garage door opener, a rear centre armrest with cupholders, and remote-folding rear seats.
GT builds on GS with the comfort package (detailed below, under key options), and adds 19-inch wheels and tires, leather upholstery, a 10-way power driver's seat with memory, a 6-way power front passenger seat, a 10-speaker stereo, navigation, gloss black exterior trim, adaptive headlights, LED taillights and fog lights, a stitched front centre console, and a lined glove box.
Key Options
The new i-Activesense package is offered in GX and GS trims, comprising radar cruise control with stop-and-go, all-speed collision avoidance, lane departure warning with lane keep assist, automatic high beams, and a colour multi-info display.
In the GT, those features come as part of the tech package, which also brings traffic sign recognition, a head-up display, and satellite radio.
GS buyers can also add a comfort package of a sunroof, dual-zone climate controls, rear passenger vents, and passive keyless entry.
Fuel Economy
Mazda's fuel consumption estimates are 9.7/7.7 L/100 km (city/highway) with the 2.0L engine and six-speed stickshift. The 2.5L/automatic/FWD combo is rated 9.7/7.8. Estimates for a 2.5L/AWD model are 10.2/8.2, or 9.8/7.9 L/100 km with an optional cylinder deactivation system.
Competition
The Mazda CX-5 competes in a wide field of compact crossovers, including the Honda CR-V, Toyota's RAV4, the Nissan Rogue, GM's Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain twins, the Hyundai Tucson, Kia's Sportage, Ford's Escape, and the Subaru Forester.
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed