Nice review. I purchased almost this exact car (I went with white leather) and I'm in love with it. Before looking at this I was actually in the market for a small luxury sedan. I was originally looking at the Mazda 6, then I moved from that to a one year old Audi A4 / Infinity Q50/ Cadillac ATS / or a new Acura TLX. After a few test drives, fate took control and randomly held a Mazda test drive event while I was on a lunch date with my fiance. We took this for a drive and it blew us away. It was as quiet as all of the other cars I was looking at and it felt every bit as luxurious as them too. Although I really thought it was nicer in every way than the TLX. For the price, the overall package that you get is hard to beat. And wow does this red color turn a lot of heads. If Mazda can keep this up, and offer a more powerful engine option in some of their cars they'll be the auto manufacturer that everyone else will have to watch out for. You'd be doing yourself a disservice if you don't take this car for a test drive. Mazda's are every bit as reliable as Honda and Toyota (my last Mazda went 240k miles), and while they may differ on fuel economy or they might not have 360 degree cameras, they beat them by wrapping you in luxury. I kid you not when I say that this feels like a 40k luxury car.
Hi Dr B, Thanks for that info. Quick Question: How do you like the white leather accented interior. I like how it looks but I'm a little nervous about choosing it because everyone says light leather interiors are hard to keep clean and good looking.
Very nice review. I just leased a CX-5 GT nine days ago, and I LOVE it!!! I love the premium look and feel (both inside and outside), the awesome Bose sound system, the nice ride and quiet cabin. My only gripes are: 1) no Android Auto, 2) storage in the front section is lacking, 3) the armrest is too short, 4) no Express Up/Down window for front passenger, 5) not too fond of the wheel design/color. So far, I am getting only 19.6 miles/gallon in the city but hope it will improve a bit over time. Great improvements, Mazda! :-)
This is the first review I've watched by this group and I was impressed. It wasnt stiff or commercial like. Seemed to be free of bias as well. I really liked the casual approach. Good job and I will be watching more.
Love the review. Lots of extra information about the design process, which I didn't know before. And great car! I purchased the CX-5 last month (in eternal blue) and am currently waiting for it to be delivered. Can't wait!
Note: For those that have noted the CX-5 doesn't have a accessories.mazdausa.com/wcsstore/AccessoriesAssetStore/images/catalog/fullimages/MazdaAcc-Pedals-Auto.jpg Dead Pedal (just carpet), they do offer as an optional accessory (Alloy Pedal Kit) that includes a Rest Pedal. It really makes a visual impact.
Good helpful review. I am in the market for a new CUV/hatchback, so am looking at the 2017 Honda Civic hatchback as well as this vehicle. I am however concerned about having to use premium fuel and future potential problems with the turbo. I am therefore leaning towards the CX5.
Both choices are excellent and vary greatly. I will say that the Civic Hatch doesn't require premium fuel, only regular (yes on the turbo). Turbochargers have come a very long way from the horror stories you hear from the 70's & 80's. So long as you don't drive like a madman immediately after starting the engine or just prior to shutting it down, and get regular oil changes you won't have any issues. Best wishes in your pursuit!
Hello! First of all - great review! Could you gat more information about the differences between 2016 and 2017 model? Is seems that 2017 is a bit slower (~0,5 sec up to 60mph). Why is that? I know that it is a bit heavier (~50-60kg due to better NVH) but also have 2 more HP , better drag coefficient also because it is a bit lower. Other thing is that in EU we have diesel engine in CX-5 since 2012 or 2013, so probably you will get very similar 2.2 diesel with twin turbo 175 PS, which is a bit faster than 2.5 gasoline. Moreover in EU we are still waiting for 2.5 which will be slightly modified - 194 PS with i-STOP (stop&start), cylinder deactivation and i-ELOOP (KERS) based on high-capacity electric double layer capacitor.
However much details Mazda has given to the redesign they missed putting a protective rubber on the carpeted dead pedal. This is a feature you will find in vehicles from all other manufacturers. Salt and dirt will destroy the carpet on the dead pedal in no time and it will look horrible.
JCA, while I agree with you, that's just nit picking now...every manufacturer takes short cuts to cut on cost...just so happened that they did on the dead pedal...surely trying to remedy this on your own wouldn't cost you an arm and a leg! I've read on forums a lot of people spent $5 on a velcro and rubber pad to remedy this!
True, but that's a minor detail. IMO they redeemed themselves by making the car look as attractive as it does. I mean, have you seen this parked next to a RAV4 or a CR-V? It looks like it belongs parked next to an NX, or even a Red F-Pace. :p
That is a very good review. I have been wanting to buy a compact SUV for a while now but am confused as we have good options like the CR-V, Hyundai Tucson and CX-5. I read somewhere that it got a four star by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration but is yet to be tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, however, the other two of the preferred cars have 5-star ratings and I guess are also more reliable. How reliable is the CX5? How would you compare this car with a Hyundai Tucson or CR-V?
I'm glad you found this review to be helpful. The market is flooded with small SUV's with ever more coming out all the time. The CX-5 has been historically very reliable, as is the Mazda brand. Comparing it to the Tucson and CR-V you will find all three have differing attributes. While the CX-5 aims to feel premium and deliver excellent handling, the Tucson will give you many creature comforts for your dollar and the CR-V blends both of these with excellent build quality, the most space and standard safety tech. I encourage you to check out our video reviews of both the 2017 Tucson and 2017 CR-V if you haven't already - hopefully they will be just as helpful to you as this video was! Thanks for reaching out to us!
To be blunt Neelam, I drive a 2017 Honda CR-V. I haven't driven the Rogue, but my personal opinion has always turned me off of Nissan. This new CX-5 is a really great vehicle though. The quality of everything inside and out is superb, the drive excellent and the overall value great.
I test drove the Mazda CX-5 yesterday and i found the power of engine much better than CRV. CRV felt very light like a scooter. Did you happen to notice a burning smell while driving the Mazda, the dealer told me it is common in new mazda cars and it should go away ??? Also any idea when is android auto coming for Mazda ? Thanks
Every brand new Mazda I have driven or been in has that gross burning smell, I'm not a fan of that. It will burn off though, that is correct. I'm not sure when Android Auto is coming to Mazda. I have seen things about it online, but nothing official from Mazda.
Mazda designers went to a lot of enhancing, but they couldn't put a simple 50 cents plastic on the dead pedal ! I love that red crystal color, but let's be honest , in case of the need of repaint it , no paint shop will be able to replicate that 3 coating paint, so I would definitely go with the more traditional color ways.
That depends on what you value most. The RAV4 is the least engaging to drive, however is supremely reliable. The CR-V is a great balance of enjoyable to drive and uber practical. The CX-5 is the sportiest of the three, but gives up some space in the rear passenger and cargo areas. Really it boils down to what you will need your new car to do for you? Let us know what you think!
Good review for dawdling around town, but I won't go for this Mazda. They generally make good quality cars but the attention to detail You have so elaborately dwelled on did not really apply on the interior design at least not for my understanding. It's of course all a matter of taste but this 'hodge podge' of these boring V shapes, dead corners, dust catching crevices, ledges and fake wood does not appeal to me. I would not feel comfortable in this car just by being annoyed by these jumbo sized air vents and cluttery, grooved look on the steering wheel. Will this engine carry 4 adults with luggage on a trip through winding mountain roads without the engine dying on a 12% incline? Or is it just a comfy shopping trolley after dropping the kids at school? I am in the market for a compact SUV, and although this Mazda looks ok externally (except those hideous wheels), I somehow can't warm to it. It feels like a picnic cruiser.
Ummmm....dude - get rid of the oversize sunglasses. You are intelligent and well versed in your review. But the sunglasses make you look like you'd rather be at the beach. Yet you weren't driving there.
You need to know your facts and information about the vehicle before you start doing reviews. You sounded very unsure and unprofessional about some stuff. Be better prepared next time.
Nice review. I purchased almost this exact car (I went with white leather) and I'm in love with it. Before looking at this I was actually in the market for a small luxury sedan. I was originally looking at the Mazda 6, then I moved from that to a one year old Audi A4 / Infinity Q50/ Cadillac ATS / or a new Acura TLX. After a few test drives, fate took control and randomly held a Mazda test drive event while I was on a lunch date with my fiance. We took this for a drive and it blew us away. It was as quiet as all of the other cars I was looking at and it felt every bit as luxurious as them too. Although I really thought it was nicer in every way than the TLX. For the price, the overall package that you get is hard to beat. And wow does this red color turn a lot of heads. If Mazda can keep this up, and offer a more powerful engine option in some of their cars they'll be the auto manufacturer that everyone else will have to watch out for. You'd be doing yourself a disservice if you don't take this car for a test drive. Mazda's are every bit as reliable as Honda and Toyota (my last Mazda went 240k miles), and while they may differ on fuel economy or they might not have 360 degree cameras, they beat them by wrapping you in luxury. I kid you not when I say that this feels like a 40k luxury car.
Hi Dr B, Thanks for that info. Quick Question: How do you like the white leather accented interior. I like how it looks but I'm a little nervous about choosing it because everyone says light leather interiors are hard to keep clean and good looking.
Tom Elew there are really good leather seat cleaners out there
Tom Elew I had the 2016 model year with white leather. We drove it for 20k plus miles and had no issues with the seats.
Very nice review. I just leased a CX-5 GT nine days ago, and I LOVE it!!! I love the premium look and feel (both inside and outside), the awesome Bose sound system, the nice ride and quiet cabin. My only gripes are: 1) no Android Auto, 2) storage in the front section is lacking, 3) the armrest is too short, 4) no Express Up/Down window for front passenger, 5) not too fond of the wheel design/color. So far, I am getting only 19.6 miles/gallon in the city but hope it will improve a bit over time. Great improvements, Mazda! :-)
This is the first review I've watched by this group and I was impressed. It wasnt stiff or commercial like. Seemed to be free of bias as well. I really liked the casual approach. Good job and I will be watching more.
Love the review. Lots of extra information about the design process, which I didn't know before. And great car! I purchased the CX-5 last month (in eternal blue) and am currently waiting for it to be delivered. Can't wait!
Note: For those that have noted the CX-5 doesn't have a
accessories.mazdausa.com/wcsstore/AccessoriesAssetStore/images/catalog/fullimages/MazdaAcc-Pedals-Auto.jpg
Dead Pedal (just carpet), they do offer as an optional accessory (Alloy Pedal Kit) that includes a Rest Pedal. It really makes a visual impact.
Great find Nick, thanks for sharing!
Nice review. Thanks! It helps me with my decision process for later this summer when I plan on purchasing a new vehicle.
Hey Hollis. Great review. Look forward to seeing the new CX-5 in the UK. :-)
Great review---I had no idea this Mazda so many cool features. Good job on the video!
pro tip: watch series on instaflixxer. I've been using it for watching a lot of movies during the lockdown.
@Simon Kade Yea, been watching on InstaFlixxer for since december myself :)
@Simon Kade yup, I've been using InstaFlixxer for since december myself =)
@Simon Kade definitely, been using InstaFlixxer for since november myself :)
@Simon Kade yea, have been using instaflixxer for months myself :D
Hi, Thanks very much. Very informative.
Great review! Mazda call it Jinba Ittai!
Thanks, I was getting so frustrated that I couldn't remember it haha! Glad you enjoyed the review!
Good helpful review. I am in the market for a new CUV/hatchback, so am looking at the 2017 Honda Civic hatchback as well as this vehicle. I am however concerned about having to use premium fuel and future potential problems with the turbo. I am therefore leaning towards the CX5.
Both choices are excellent and vary greatly. I will say that the Civic Hatch doesn't require premium fuel, only regular (yes on the turbo). Turbochargers have come a very long way from the horror stories you hear from the 70's & 80's. So long as you don't drive like a madman immediately after starting the engine or just prior to shutting it down, and get regular oil changes you won't have any issues. Best wishes in your pursuit!
Hello! First of all - great review! Could you gat more information about the differences between 2016 and 2017 model? Is seems that 2017 is a bit slower (~0,5 sec up to 60mph). Why is that? I know that it is a bit heavier (~50-60kg due to better NVH) but also have 2 more HP , better drag coefficient also because it is a bit lower.
Other thing is that in EU we have diesel engine in CX-5 since 2012 or 2013, so probably you will get very similar 2.2 diesel with twin turbo 175 PS, which is a bit faster than 2.5 gasoline. Moreover in EU we are still waiting for 2.5 which will be slightly modified - 194 PS with i-STOP (stop&start), cylinder deactivation and i-ELOOP (KERS) based on high-capacity electric double layer capacitor.
However much details Mazda has given to the redesign they missed putting a protective rubber on the carpeted dead pedal. This is a feature you will find in vehicles from all other manufacturers. Salt and dirt will destroy the carpet on the dead pedal in no time and it will look horrible.
JCA, while I agree with you, that's just nit picking now...every manufacturer takes short cuts to cut on cost...just so happened that they did on the dead pedal...surely trying to remedy this on your own wouldn't cost you an arm and a leg! I've read on forums a lot of people spent $5 on a velcro and rubber pad to remedy this!
True, but that's a minor detail. IMO they redeemed themselves by making the car look as attractive as it does. I mean, have you seen this parked next to a RAV4 or a CR-V? It looks like it belongs parked next to an NX, or even a Red F-Pace. :p
They offer aluminium covers as an option in Europe.
That is a very good review. I have been wanting to buy a compact SUV for a while now but am confused as we have good options like the CR-V, Hyundai Tucson and CX-5. I read somewhere that it got a four star by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration but is yet to be tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, however, the other two of the preferred cars have 5-star ratings and I guess are also more reliable. How reliable is the CX5? How would you compare this car with a Hyundai Tucson or CR-V?
I'm glad you found this review to be helpful. The market is flooded with small SUV's with ever more coming out all the time. The CX-5 has been historically very reliable, as is the Mazda brand. Comparing it to the Tucson and CR-V you will find all three have differing attributes. While the CX-5 aims to feel premium and deliver excellent handling, the Tucson will give you many creature comforts for your dollar and the CR-V blends both of these with excellent build quality, the most space and standard safety tech. I encourage you to check out our video reviews of both the 2017 Tucson and 2017 CR-V if you haven't already - hopefully they will be just as helpful to you as this video was! Thanks for reaching out to us!
Thanks a lot for your reply! I really appreciate it! :)
nice car..
How would you compare it to Honda CRV and Nissan Rogue. If you had to pick one out of the three, what would be your choice?
To be blunt Neelam, I drive a 2017 Honda CR-V. I haven't driven the Rogue, but my personal opinion has always turned me off of Nissan. This new CX-5 is a really great vehicle though. The quality of everything inside and out is superb, the drive excellent and the overall value great.
I test drove the Mazda CX-5 yesterday and i found the power of engine much better than CRV. CRV felt very light like a scooter. Did you happen to notice a burning smell while driving the Mazda, the dealer told me it is common in new mazda cars and it should go away ??? Also any idea when is android auto coming for Mazda ? Thanks
Every brand new Mazda I have driven or been in has that gross burning smell, I'm not a fan of that. It will burn off though, that is correct. I'm not sure when Android Auto is coming to Mazda. I have seen things about it online, but nothing official from Mazda.
The IIHS and NHSTA ratings are not out yet, is it safe to go ahead with the purchase or is it advisable to wait for it to be out ?
Neelam Patil I drove both and I have to tell I WOULD NEVER BUY A CAR WITH CVT. Zero driving feeling.
Mazda designers went to a lot of enhancing, but they couldn't put a simple 50 cents plastic on the dead pedal ! I love that red crystal color, but let's be honest , in case of the need of repaint it , no paint shop will be able to replicate that 3 coating paint, so I would definitely go with the more traditional color ways.
What town were you driving through?
Concord, New Hampshire
Grappone Automotive Group seems like a very nice area
Thank you! We would agree. It happens to be our States Capital.
As you tested all three 2017 models RAV4-CRV-CX5,which one to buy ? I am in market to buy one RAV4 limited -CRV Touring - Cx5 GT?
That depends on what you value most. The RAV4 is the least engaging to drive, however is supremely reliable. The CR-V is a great balance of enjoyable to drive and uber practical. The CX-5 is the sportiest of the three, but gives up some space in the rear passenger and cargo areas. Really it boils down to what you will need your new car to do for you? Let us know what you think!
AWWWW YISSSS!
I got a 2019 GT Luv it!.... if Ford still controlled it I wouldnt buy a Mazda but now thank God its all Japan made !
No day time running light? C'mon
The 2017 Mazda CX-5 utilizes the headlight low beams as DRL's.
Good review for dawdling around town, but I won't go for this Mazda. They generally make good quality cars but the attention to detail You have so elaborately dwelled on did not really apply on the interior design at least not for my understanding. It's of course all a matter of taste but this 'hodge podge' of these boring V shapes, dead corners, dust catching crevices, ledges and fake wood does not appeal to me. I would not feel comfortable in this car just by being annoyed by these jumbo sized air vents and cluttery, grooved look on the steering wheel. Will this engine carry 4 adults with luggage on a trip through winding mountain roads without the engine dying on a 12% incline? Or is it just a comfy shopping trolley after dropping the kids at school? I am in the market for a compact SUV, and although this Mazda looks ok externally (except those hideous wheels), I somehow can't warm to it. It feels like a picnic cruiser.
g
Ummmm....dude - get rid of the oversize sunglasses. You are intelligent and well versed in your review. But the sunglasses make you look like you'd rather be at the beach. Yet you weren't driving there.
I'm open to sunglasses donations
Grappone Automotive Group It has been properly moved and seconded...lol
You need to know your facts and information about the vehicle before you start doing reviews. You sounded very unsure and unprofessional about some stuff. Be better prepared next time.