2023 Mazda CX-5 Review

Revered for its exceptional performance and refined design, the 2023 Mazda CX-5 has emerged as a leading contender in the compact SUV category.

Garnering accolades such as the Best Compact SUV for the Money, this model showcases an opulent interior and an abundance of standard safety features.

With its commendable cargo capacity and agile driving dynamics, the CX-5 offers a compelling option for those seeking both comfort and functionality.

Moreover, boasting above-average reliability ratings and being distinguished as a Top Safety Pick+, this vehicle ensures peace of mind on every journey.

While competitors like the Toyota RAV4 and Subaru Forester merit consideration, the Mazda CX-5 presents an enticing combination of luxury aesthetics and affordability.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2023 Mazda CX-5 is ranked #1 in the Compact SUVs category and has a score of 8.7 out of 10.
  • It is the winner of the 2023 Best Compact SUV for the Money award and a finalist for the 2023 Best Compact SUV for Families award.
  • The CX-5 has an upscale interior, lots of standard safety features, and a good amount of cargo space.
  • It offers agile and comfortable driving, decent fuel economy, and a luxurious look and feel compared to its price.

Performance and Handling

The Mazda CX-5 offers impressive handling by segment standards, with well-calibrated steering and easy-to-modulate brakes. The incorporation of G-Vectoring Control further enhances the driving dynamics by minimizing unnecessary inputs and reducing driver fatigue. This feature allows for smoother cornering and improved stability in various road conditions.

For enthusiasts seeking turbocharged performance, the Mazda CX-5 also offers a turbocharged engine option. This provides a punchier performance and quicker acceleration, enhancing the overall driving experience. Additionally, the sport mode feature can be engaged to enhance engine sound and provide a more engaging driving experience.

The handling capabilities of the Mazda CX-5 are commendable, offering precise control and agility. Whether navigating through tight city streets or taking on winding country roads, the CX-5 delivers confidence-inspiring handling.

Overall, the Mazda CX-5 excels in providing a dynamic driving experience with its well-tuned steering response, modulated brakes, turbocharged performance option, and sport mode functionality that enhances both engine sound and performance. The combination of these features makes it an appealing choice for those who desire an engaging driving experience without compromising on comfort and practicality.

Interior Design and Features

A look at the interior of the 2023 Mazda CX-5 Signature

Featuring luxurious materials and a clean, classy cabin, the interior design of the Mazda CX-5 offers an appealing package compared to its competitors in the compact SUV segment. The CX-5 provides comfort and luxury with its plush seats and premium materials. The spacious cargo area is another standout feature, offering ample room for all your belongings.

The technology integration in the CX-5 is impressive, with a 10.2-inch infotainment display that boasts crisp graphics and prompt responses. The intuitive controls make it easy to navigate through various functions, enhancing the overall user experience.

In terms of materials used, Mazda has opted for high-quality components throughout the cabin, creating an upscale atmosphere that rivals luxury compact SUVs. The attention to detail can be seen in every aspect of the interior design.

Looking inside driver's window Mazda CX-5

To summarize, here are five key points about the interior design of the Mazda CX-5:

  • Comfort and Luxury: Plush seats and premium materials provide a comfortable and luxurious driving experience.
  • Technology Integration: The 10.2-inch infotainment display and intuitive controls enhance convenience and connectivity.
  • Spacious Cargo Area: Ample room in the cargo area ensures you have enough space for all your belongings.
  • Premium Materials: High-quality components create an upscale atmosphere inside the cabin.
  • Intuitive Controls: User-friendly controls make it easy to navigate through various functions.

Overall, the Mazda CX-5 excels in offering a well-designed interior that combines comfort, luxury, spaciousness, premium materials, and intuitive controls to provide a satisfying driving experience for those seeking to belong in this segment.

Safety and Reliability

Safety and reliability are important considerations when evaluating the Mazda CX-5. The CX-5 has a predicted reliability score of 82 out of 100, which is considered great by J.D. Power. It also received the highest rating of Good in all six crash tests conducted by the IIHS, earning it the designation of Top Safety Pick+. In terms of warranty coverage, Mazda offers a three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

The CX-5 comes equipped with a range of safety features to ensure the well-being of its occupants. Some notable safety features include a standard vehicle-to-vehicle front crash prevention system, which received a superior rating from the IIHS, and a standard vehicle-to-pedestrian system which received a midtier rating.

To provide further insights into the safety and reliability aspects of the Mazda CX-5, the following table summarizes important details:

CategoryDetails
Reliability ScorePredicted reliability score: 82/100
Crash Test RatingsIIHS Crash Test Ratings: Good (all tests)
Warranty CoverageLimited Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles

With its strong predicted reliability score and impressive crash test ratings, combined with comprehensive warranty coverage and advanced safety features, the Mazda CX-5 provides peace of mind for drivers who prioritize safety and dependability.

Pricing and Trim Options

Regarding the pricing and trim options of the Mazda CX-5, there are several models available with varying features and price points.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 starts at a base price of $26,700, which is below the class average for compact SUVs. However, as you move up the trim levels, the price increases accordingly.

Here is a breakdown of the different trims and their respective prices:

  • 2.5 S: Starting at $26,700
  • 2.5 S Select: Starting at $28,500
  • 2.5 S Preferred: Priced at $30,190
  • 2.5 S Carbon Edition: Starting at $31,100
  • 2.5 Turbo Signature: Priced at $39,650

Each trim level adds more features than the previous one, allowing buyers to choose the right trim that suits their needs and budget. It’s important to note that all trims come standard with all-wheel drive.

When considering cost comparison between competitors in the compact SUV segment such as Toyota RAV4 or Subaru Forester, it is essential to conduct a thorough features breakdown analysis to determine which model offers the best value for money.

Comparison With Competitors

The Mazda CX-5 competes with other popular compact SUVs in its segment, such as the Toyota RAV4, Subaru Forester, Kia Sportage, and Mazda CX-50. To provide a detailed comparison between the Mazda CX-5 and its competitors, a 2-column and 3-row table is presented below:

CriteriaMazda CX-5Toyota RAV4
Interior QualityUpscale materialsAverage materials
Cargo SpaceGood amountDecent amount
Fuel EconomyAverageGood
CriteriaSubaru ForesterKia Sportage
Interior QualityAverage materialsBasic materials
Cargo SpaceDecent amountLimited amount
Fuel EconomyGoodAverage

From this comparison, it can be seen that the Mazda CX-5 offers an upscale interior with comfortable seats and ample cargo space compared to its competitors. In terms of fuel economy, it falls within the average range for a compact SUV. However, the Toyota RAV4 stands out for its good fuel economy and decent cargo space.

When comparing the Mazda CX-5 to the Subaru Forester and Kia Sportage, it is evident that the CX-5 has a more luxurious interior and better cargo space. The Subaru Forester offers average materials and decent cargo space while the Kia Sportage features basic materials and limited cargo space.

Overall, while there are compelling alternatives in the compact SUV segment such as the Toyota RAV4, Subaru Forester, Kia Sportage, and even Mazda’s own CX-50 model, the well-rounded Mazda CX-5 remains a top pick for those seeking a small SUV with upscale features.

Fuel Efficiency and Sustainability

In terms of fuel efficiency and sustainability, the Mazda CX-5 falls behind its counterparts from Toyota, Honda, and Hyundai. While it offers a range of features and performance capabilities that make it a popular choice in the compact SUV market, its environmental impact and fuel consumption are not as impressive as some of its competitors.

To emphasize this point, here are five key factors to consider:

  • Fuel Efficiency: The Mazda CX-5’s fuel efficiency is average for a compact SUV. It gets an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city, 27 mpg on the highway, and 24 mpg combined. However, this falls short compared to other models that offer hybrid options or eco-friendly features.
  • Eco-Friendly Features: Unlike some of its rivals, the Mazda CX-5 does not currently offer any hybrid options or advanced eco-friendly features that can help reduce its carbon footprint.
  • Environmental Impact: With higher fuel consumption and limited eco-friendly options, the Mazda CX-5 has a greater environmental impact compared to vehicles with more sustainable alternatives.
  • Fuel Consumption: The observed fuel efficiency after 460 test miles was measured at 21 mpg. This indicates that the Mazda CX-5 may have higher fuel consumption compared to other models in its class.

While the Mazda CX-5 excels in other areas such as interior quality and driving experience, consumers who prioritize fuel efficiency and sustainability may find better alternatives among Toyota, Honda, and Hyundai’s offerings.

Value and Verdict

The value and verdict of the Mazda CX-5 are highly regarded in the compact SUV market. With its standout design, driving experience, and luxury features, it offers a compelling package at competitive pricing. The CX-5 has received positive customer satisfaction ratings for its overall performance and reliability.

When it comes to the driving experience, the CX-5 delivers impressive handling and a well-calibrated steering system that enhances driver control and minimizes fatigue. The G-Vectoring Control further improves stability by reducing unnecessary inputs. These factors contribute to a sporty yet comfortable ride.

In terms of luxury features, the CX-5’s interior rivals that of higher-priced luxury compact SUVs. It boasts high-quality materials, comfortable seats, and intuitive climate controls. The infotainment system includes a 10.2-inch display with crisp graphics and prompt responses.

One of the key strengths of the CX-5 is its competitive pricing compared to its rivals in the market. Despite offering luxurious features and an upscale design, it remains affordable for buyers seeking a premium SUV experience without breaking their budget.

Overall, the Mazda CX-5 stands out for its driving experience, luxury features, competitive pricing, customer satisfaction ratings, and standout design. It offers a near-luxury experience at a mainstream price point, making it an appealing choice for those who desire both style and value in their compact SUV purchase decision.

Reviews of Other Mazda Vehicles at Automobile News

We’re quite big fans of Mazda vehicles and we have an extensive collection of Mazda car reviews. Check them out:

Frequently Asked Questions About The 2023 Mazda CX-5

What Is the Starting Price of the 2023 Mazda Cx-5?

The starting price of the 2023 Mazda CX-5 is $26,700. It comes in eight trims, with prices ranging from $26,700 for the base 2.5 S to $39,650 for the top-of-the-line 2.5 Turbo Signature.

How Many Trims Does the 2023 Mazda CX-5 Come In?

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 comes in eight trims: 2.5 S, 2.5 S Select, 2.5 S Preferred, 2.5 S Carbon Edition, 2.5 S Premium, 2.5 S Premium Plus, 2.5 Turbo, and 2.5 Turbo Signature. Each trim offers different features and engine performance options for customers to choose from.

How Does the Fuel Efficiency of the Mazda CX-5 Compare to Its Competitors?

The fuel efficiency of the Mazda CX-5 is worse than its competitors Toyota, Honda, and Hyundai. It gets 22 mpg in the city, 27 on the highway, and 24 combined according to the EPA.

Is the Mazda CX-5 Considered a Reliable SUV?

The Mazda CX-5 is considered a reliable SUV, with above-average predicted reliability. It offers a range of safety features and has good resale value. Customer reviews highlight its comfortable interior and enjoyable driving experience. Maintenance costs may vary depending on individual circumstances.

How Does the Interior Design of the Mazda CX-5 Compare to Other Compact SUVs in Its Class?

The interior design of the Mazda CX-5 compares favorably to other compact SUVs in its class. It offers a combination of comfort, technology, and quality that rivals its competitors. The CX-5 provides a well-appointed cabin with upscale materials and intuitive technology features.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 2023 Mazda CX-5 stands as a true gem in the compact SUV market. With its top-ranked status and numerous accolades, it is clear that this vehicle offers an exceptional driving experience.

Its upscale interior, comfortable seats, and abundance of safety features make it a standout choice. The CX-5’s performance and handling are agile and enjoyable, while its reliability and safety ratings provide peace of mind to drivers.

With pricing options that cater to various budgets, the CX-5 offers incredible value for its luxurious look and feel.

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Author: Andrew

Andrew has always been passionate about cars and has been working in the automotive industry for many years. He opened his own business to share his love of cars with the world and provide an outlet for car enthusiasts to learn more about this fascinating topic.

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