Once you get to learn the infotainment system, you can in fact use it without looking for most things. Tactile feedback of the main dial works perfectly
100% and even if you accidently over/under shoot what you're trying to select, it's just a quick glance over to see how many "clicks" away you are. This seems to be something that all Mazda owners preach and love, but a lot of reviewers never quite catch on because they only have the car for a few days or a week.
I have a family member with a 2016 and they greatly appreciate how easy it is to use by feel alone. At first this system may feel unintuitive, but a few weeks of muscle memory makes it feel like second nature.
It gets dissed a lot in reviews, but I actually like it as well. It only took me about a week to get used to it. Also I saw on the local news that a study was done recently and using a touch screen in your vehicle while you drive is basically just as unsafe as texting on your phone.
I've owned a 2018 Mazda 6 and now own a '21 cx-5 just like this and also agree that once you're in the car for no more than a month do you have a full grasp of the knob/system. I can't say I disagree with most reviewers though in saying there should at least be an OPTION to touch
Most high end cars have this function vs touch screen. I have an older touch screen and it went out. I can’t fully control it now because half the screen broke because of the Texas heat.
I was hesitant about the infotainment system at first based off of reviews, but after I bought mine a few weeks ago and spent time with it, I like it. There is a learning curve, but once you use it daily, it becomes second nature and it's easy to use while driving without having to take your eyes off the road.
@@lowlanz it’s because we’re use to reaching up to touch radios and all that even from cars back before touch screens and all that. I promise we’ve had our Mazda CX 5 with this non touch screen for a month now and my F150 lariat has a touchscreen and I much prefer the non touch with the dials right in front of the console it took no time whatsoever to learn and get use to. I wish my ford had it so I didn’t have to reach up and touch the screen. In our Mazda I don’t even have to move my arm much less lean and reach up from my seat. Answering calls reading a text change a song literally push a button with my arm resting on the console. It’s a non issue that we thought we would hate but ended up loving. Might be nice if it was both but I def wouldn’t want them to take it away completely
I prefer the knob over touchscreen and the driving dynamics/luxury touches make the CX5 the choice for me in this category. Great video as always, viva la difference! 🌞👍👍
I’ve had my ‘21 CX-5 Signature for 3 weeks. It took me all of a day to get used to the controller and don’t miss touch screens at all. It’s a non-issue. My mom got a new car yesterday and I was helping her set everything up. All I noticed were the fingerprints all over her touchscreen.
We lease a 2018 CX5 Touring, and for $272 a month, zero down, 3 year lease, it's easy to adjust to the infotainment system. It's 85% as luxurious as our old RX, 50% of the price, and 300% more fun to drive.
Yes! I was comparing this to an acura rdx, and the mazda cx-5 doesn't leave you wanting in the luxury department. Very comparable to the lower end luxury line ups.
When you actually own the vehicle, you get used to how the infotainment works. When you’re driving you feel for the knob and twist to do go through the menus without ever having to look down at the knob. Combine that with the quick access buttons which automatically adjust in function for Apple CarPlay, and I can easily do what I want now rather quickly after 3 years of owning Mazda vehicles. I’m saying this as someone who came from Kia’s, which are known for their easy to use touch screen infotainments.
@@tails300 Mazda’s new infotainment has a circular screen that allows you to type in addresses. While the vehicle is in motion, CarPlay requires voice commands to do any advance functions. With that said, having owned and rented cars with both, I wouldn’t recommend trying to input addresses or change destinations while in motion(assuming no voice controls) with either knob or touch screen. Do that pulled over or better yet, before you leave driveway. Any one who thinks trying to reach over and input “1234 TH-cam St, Muzio, CA” on a touchscreen while driving is so much more intuitive and less distracting than a knob is fooling themselves big time.
@@tails300 Well, I generally know where I'm going prior to starting my drive. I've only had the CX-5 a few days so, not sure how voice commands work or if they would with Waze, which I use through my Apple Play. In any case, I just enter the address into Waze before I start driving. Not a problem. If something were to change, I see no problem in pulling over to make changes to my destination. Not a problem at all.
I actually chose the car partially FOR the infotainment. I find having a rotary dial instead of touch screen is way less distracting, as you keep your hand in one spot, and it all becomes muscle memory. Its much easier to use on bumpy or winding roads instead of your hand moving around while you try to find that exact spot on the screen to press
Owners of Mazdas with the older infotainment that had the scroll wheel and the touch screen together. Did any of you ever use the touch screen? I can count on my hand the number of times I’ve used the touch screen in the past 5 years. The scroll wheel is less distracting in my experience, and I have a Honda with a touchscreen for comparison.
I guess I'm always going to be in the minority about the whole touchscreen thing. I got used to using a knob in about a day, and never used the touchscreen again in my car (has both). I find it much more distracting to have to figure out and see where your finger lands on a touchscreen while driving, whereas muscle memory develops with the knob. I don't have to look at the screen at all to do what I want it to do. ...That and I already have enough fingerprints on my phone, it gets really disgusting really quick in a car.
I recently had to rent a car for 3 weeks, prior to purchasing my new car. Luckily, I was able to experience the insanity of a touch screen and realized immediately, I hated it. I can't tell you how jazzed I was to learn that the Mazda had gone away from it. It definitely factored into my decision to purchase the CX-5.
I never felt the infotainment system was complicated or hard to get used to. Honestly, not being able to use the touch screen has been one of my highlights of Mazda. I became quite efficient using the main dial and most of the time could use the system without taking my eyes off the road. Love the video though!!
The other important thing to note is that reliability is really great for Mazdas now. They left ford in 2015 and since then they've been excelling in quality
Have a 2018 Touring and still love it. I realized I don't care about not having a touch screen and find myself missing a control knob when driving my wife's outback without it.
Infotainment is different but imo once you get used to it & take advantage of the shortcut buttons its way easier to use. Can't stand trying to stretch my arm out to poke & peck at a touchscreen now.
I got a 2020 mazda 3 don’t miss the touchscreen at all, I don’t even look at the screen when I use the wheel for that long of a time to where it’s as you said distracting, you end up getting used to it and plus how much scrolling are you even gonna use? There’s buttons on the side for shortcuts
I prefer the dial over the touchscreen. My Mazda3 is a stick shift, and it's a much shorter reach from the shifter to the dial. I'm also slightly OCD about fingerprints. If I used the touchscreen, I would probably wipe it with a cloth after every touch. It didn't take long to be able to use the dial intuitively.
We have the 2021 CX-9 and love the rotary knob. It takes some getting used to but is so user friendly. There's no reaching for the screen; Just sit back and glance over. We use Android auto though, so maybe that's the big factor?
Might be a little outdated comment but I received my CX-5 yesterday and my wife loves the knob option as she wouldn't be able to reach the screen from her seat, the knob option gives her a great opportunity to play around with the media features while I do the driving.
I own a 2015 mazda 3. On navigation, i use the voice command to say the whole address instead of typing on screen. I use the scroll wheel and shortcut buttons very often. When switching to a radio station, i just say the station number and it switches to it.
I never, ever use the touch screen on any car while driving. Its as distracting and unsafe as a cell phone (who's use is ostensibly illegal in California while in motion). I prefer the dial/knob over reaching to touch. Just like the touch pad and toggle on a laptop once you get used to it you can fly through the screen. TBH I'd take the CX-5 turbo over a Bronco any day. The Bronco is cool, but the Mazda is such a well rounded vehicle. Great handling, great acceleration, quiet, nice ride, very upscale materials, nice styling and one of the biggest pluses - its very reliable. I don't know if you can say that about a new Ford model in its first year of production.
Mazda invented an infotainment system that can't be used while driving. It's perfect for drivers like you. The rest of us will need to buy something else, because this system is a deal breaker. Touchscreens are faster and safer in every way.
@@haze1123 It can be used while driving. You just can't poke at the screen with your finger which requires you to take your eyes off the road and studies have shown is about as dangerous as driving while drunk. Use a tactile knob doesn't cause this problem - that's why Mazda uses it and locks out the touch ability when the car is in motion.
The safest infotainment system is the Mazda way. If you enjoy driving then you will love a Mazda. Am sorry to say Evie can’t multitask because with Mazda you should be able to drive and do whatever you want to do on your infotainment system
i have a 2021 CX5 Signature Turbo. My infotainment screen is touchscreen. Every icon in the Carplay screen works by touch. When i touch the Mazda icon in carplay it takes me to the main Mazda screen. Those icons too are workable by touch.
Different for differ ppl it seems- for me, i do not like touch screens at all. Yea you need to look at the screen to scroll with the wheel but for me, its a shorter look just to determine how many clicks rather than needing to keep looking while i poke at it. Plus, with the wheel, owners should be able to get used to it whereas touchscreen will always need your eyes to look at it so you dont poke the wrong thing
The infotaiment knob acts like steering wheel mounted buttons, if you use it enough you don't need to look at any of the buttons to activate your cruise control or AM/FM, Bluetooth, track, volume, etc.
Ok, your daughter, with her thinking comment, just showed some really high order thinking right there. I'm more impressed by that than by the car. It's a great idea. She was totally paying attention to what you guys were saying. 👍🏾👍🏾
As a '19 Mazda3 owner, have to strongly disagree about the infotainment, I love it! Yes, it has a bit of a learning curve, but I know where my cursor is going now without having to look, or, I know how many clicks I need to turn the knob with one look. Overall I would say I keep my eyes on the road more. The mast majority of touchscreen systems don't let you dig into the menus and settings unless you're parked, either, so I'm not sure what you guys are getting at. You can still do everything you need to control nav/media/carplay/android auto while driving.
** IF ** you are looking for a used 2021 CX-5 with a Turbo 2.5L PLEASE have it looked at by a mechanic. ALL Turbo '21 2.5L Mazda Models have been suffering from oil consumption issues due to the valve guides/seals leaking. There is a Mazda TSB as well as a CA lawsuit that has been filed. Not sure if this was caused by supply chain issues back then? It was during the height of the pandemic. -Note: Some '21 2.5L Turbo models are unaffected at this time, and the normally aspirated ones so far are fine as well.
Hey man! I'm absolutely and utterly impressed by your LA flyovers. Definitely the best thing I've seen on TH-cam this year... I've got a request: Fly parallel to the Sunset Strip but from the north side, so that we can see the houses on the hills (Bird Streets in particular). That or a flyover of Hancock park. Please keep flying, thank you and stay safe!
Have had a Touring 2021 for a month. Once your subconscious adapts to the Infotainment system it's less distracting than a touchscreen and safer. We mastered the learning curve. Our 2021 Touring MX-5 is a very nice car and we believe we made a good choice after owning a Subaru Forester with the CVT-we were never comfortable with that transmission. The MX 5 is smooth.
i don't get it why people complain about the none touch screen, I just got my CX5 GTR last week, and my previously 3 cars were touch screen, I found out I took more time and eyes off the road to use touch screen, also I have to lean over my body to touch the screen(I have short arm). When I get used to the knob, I dont have to/less time see the screen to do thing. Also on touch screen the stupid fingerprints all over the screen and I have to clean it!!
I actually really enjoy the dial over the touch screen. I find it easier while moving since it’s in a much more of a natural position for your right arm while your left is on the wheel. Where I miss it though is when your using maps in CarPlay. It’s kind of feels weird using the dial (when you want move around the map) as opposed to dragging. Kind of feels like the joystick of a claw machine then haha. Other than that I actually prefer it.
I have the 2016 Mazda 3 currently and the infotainment is touch capable. I have never used the touch controls apart from when I first got the car and was trying to test all the features.
LOL... you guys are too cute for your own good! To Evie's point on the infotainment system, while I can appreciate her perspective, it would not be a deal-breaker for me on this model. Mazda continues to evolve very nicely. Overall, a very nice review.
I have a 2015 mazda 3 2.0 w manual tranny. Has touchscreen and rotary knob BUT so annoying that it locks out the touch screen when the car is not at stand still. And stupid warning about the screen that you have to click each time you turn the car on. On the plus side, so fun to drive, great steering, shifter feel, and handling. Stick engine note is pretty decent too.
I would get it. But, Mazda should improve the following on the cx5 : 1) make it slightly bigger to match CRV n Rav4 2) Offer better mpg for standard and offer a hybrid option that beats Toyota. I’m sure it’s in the works but that’s what I would look for... if I were in the market to buy a Mazda
I wasn't in the market to buy a Mazda...until I was. I was jonesin' for a 2022 Tucson until our local dealers were adding $4995.00 to the MSRP just because. Something about a chip shortage I guess, made it okay to rip off the consumer. It was absolutely offensive! Not to mention, their Hybrids were nowhere to be found anyway. So, that pretty much opened the door for me to begin shopping around and I am ecstatic that I found the CX-5 Carbon. I couldn't believe my luck, even though there is no Hybrid model. The car is so amazing, I was willing to abandon the hybrid ideal I was searching for.
We love our CX5 and find that the absence of the touch screen to work very well after a short learning time. The Toyota vehicle that the CX5 replaced had a touch screen infotainment system that was AWFUL and is one of the reasons we most likely wouldn’t buy a Toyota again.
the infotainment system is something you get used to. all I use it for is to change music stations. and you can do that on the steering wheel. also volume
So much discussion about the touchscreen, and I get it, but the one thing that drives me crazy about my new 2021 CX-5 Signature is that it's too much work to change the Sirius XM channel. I HATE that the steering wheel buttons only function as restart song/next song buttons even in XM, rather than next channel. So you have to turn the knob and then click the knob go change the channel, a two-step process. Even on my old 2013 Mazda 3, you could change the channel by (a) clicking once on the steering wheel button to go to the next favorite, (b) holding the steering wheel button to seek, (c) using the seek buttons on the center console (which do not exist in 2021), or (d) hitting the preset buttons on the doggone touchscreen. How is it possible that Mazda has made something less user friendly than it was 8 years ago? Other than that I love everything about this car! I drove a BMW X3 and an Audi q5 and a Volvo XC40 right before I drove the CX-5, and I actually thought the Mazda was the most fun to drive of the bunch. Call me crazy.
All these Mazda fans are arguing that touch screen is annoying and bad, but other brands also offer knobs. They just provide more options unlike Mazda. So this has to be a downside.
Without a touch screen how to input the address in the apple/google maps? how to change destinations/add stop without touch screen while driving? I do this all the time and the lack of touch screen is persuading me away from this Car.
I'm perfectly happy with the Touch Screen while stationary setup. I can type with the on-screen keyboard before I start driving, and after I started driving, all I really need is Audio Control, which is the command dial would be perfectly fine.
A choice should be offered. However, if one was not OCD before you will become one with a touch screen! Fingerprints galor! We have the CX5 grand touring and learning the knob functions comes quickly. Keeping one’s eyes on the road is more important than having a distracting touch screen. Now for the passenger it could be advantageous. Lastly, we use Apple-car play and utilize Siri a lot. I think Android phone user will do the same. The driving experience is awesome!
Thanks for a fun video. Gotta say, though, that I can`t imagine any infotainment system being a deal breaker. I`m buying a car, not a smartphone/laptop. The touchscreen on my Type R is both terribly distracting and annoying, but it didn`t stop me from buying the car, nor would a knob and button interface.
Micah, you just kinda blew my mind. I had no idea the Mazda logo was a stylized "M". I just assumed it was wings inside a squaroid or just a pure abstraction. It seems obvious now that I know, of course.
The symbol stands for Mazda's determination to “pursue ongoing improvements to drive powerful, continuous growth”, expressed by a pair of wings shaped like a letter M in an oval. The V-shaped wings are also suggestive of Mazda's flexible thinking, creativity, vitality, kindness and resilience.
I read it somewhere that it’s actually an owl head. When they changed the logo, the person responsible for changing it got it’s inspiration from nature and saw or choose an owl.
Test drove 2021-Rav4, CRV, Rouge,, and Forester and only the CX5 have the best driving dynamics for my liking; Others feels very floaty or overly electronically assisted- and pricing wise they’re all about the same price or even more expensive e.g. the top of the line RAV4; Both RAV4 and CRV have a very dated looking screens and very grainy back-up cameras and of course that CVT on the CRV, Rogue, and Forester is 👎.That’s probably the reason why I always see the CX5 as one of the top choices in reviews such as Car and Drivers etc. - The only downside with the CX5 is the fuel economy, but if you want that power and a snappy acceleration then this is the car for you. I believe I made the perfect decision and choice in getting the Mazda CX5 Signature! #zoomzoom
If you're using the smartphone hookup like AppleCar Play for navigation (Maps/Google Maps), can't you just ask Siri to set a destination? I thought that would be the main source of frustration when not having touchscreen.
You are spot on with your self driving vehicle comment for so many reasons! Great review as always! You definitely have found a niche in the youtube car reviewer land.
Love my mazda cx5 I’ved been touching screen too much on my phone already. I leave it to that! I want my car screen print free. I’m more into driving experience not touch screen while driving.
Mazda changed their screens because the Mazda 2016 had touchscreen and use of the knob, you just could not use the touchscreen while driving - they need to bring these functions onto their new cars
Ive liked and owned older mazdas and The first one I bought got great gas mileage. It was strong and in the shop, Ive worked on few of them. Mechanically mazda has always been pretty good. Though again I cant say now for the new cars because Im retired from the shop. Still dont like the electronics. So curious, why not test drive some crazy things? We got the dragster down, how about a tank? A monster truck? Real rock climbing 4X4? A semi truck? F 15 eagle? Just an idea. :)
Love the Lancia Stratos T-shirt. I also like the Mazda but I'm biased by driving a ND Miata that has a """similar""" style 😅 (P.S. I like the rotary selector for the screen, but it's my first daily with a big color infotainment so I don't have comparisons...)
@@MicahMuzio Thanks Micah! Yes, I love that little red soft top, so sweet to drive 😍. You online car journalists convinced me and I'm really grateful 😁
You guys have me laughing with the left or right thing because I know someone who is the same way...It's never "left" or "right" - it's "this way" or "that way"! Too funny!
I’ve owned a new Mazda for about 5 months now and I’ve learned to use the system via the knob begrudgingly. Yes I can use it without looking. Yes it’s easy now.. but I’d rather just use a touch screen. It’s quicker and easier.
Once you get to learn the infotainment system, you can in fact use it without looking for most things. Tactile feedback of the main dial works perfectly
100% and even if you accidently over/under shoot what you're trying to select, it's just a quick glance over to see how many "clicks" away you are. This seems to be something that all Mazda owners preach and love, but a lot of reviewers never quite catch on because they only have the car for a few days or a week.
I have a family member with a 2016 and they greatly appreciate how easy it is to use by feel alone. At first this system may feel unintuitive, but a few weeks of muscle memory makes it feel like second nature.
It gets dissed a lot in reviews, but I actually like it as well. It only took me about a week to get used to it. Also I saw on the local news that a study was done recently and using a touch screen in your vehicle while you drive is basically just as unsafe as texting on your phone.
I've owned a 2018 Mazda 6 and now own a '21 cx-5 just like this and also agree that once you're in the car for no more than a month do you have a full grasp of the knob/system. I can't say I disagree with most reviewers though in saying there should at least be an OPTION to touch
Most high end cars have this function vs touch screen. I have an older touch screen and it went out. I can’t fully control it now because half the screen broke because of the Texas heat.
I was hesitant about the infotainment system at first based off of reviews, but after I bought mine a few weeks ago and spent time with it, I like it. There is a learning curve, but once you use it daily, it becomes second nature and it's easy to use while driving without having to take your eyes off the road.
Or lean up to push a button
Others don't even have a learning curve so...
@@lowlanz it’s because we’re use to reaching up to touch radios and all that even from cars back before touch screens and all that. I promise we’ve had our Mazda CX 5 with this non touch screen for a month now and my F150 lariat has a touchscreen and I much prefer the non touch with the dials right in front of the console it took no time whatsoever to learn and get use to. I wish my ford had it so I didn’t have to reach up and touch the screen. In our Mazda I don’t even have to move my arm much less lean and reach up from my seat. Answering calls reading a text change a song literally push a button with my arm resting on the console. It’s a non issue that we thought we would hate but ended up loving. Might be nice if it was both but I def wouldn’t want them to take it away completely
I prefer the knob over touchscreen and the driving dynamics/luxury touches make the CX5 the choice for me in this category. Great video as always, viva la difference! 🌞👍👍
I’ve had my ‘21 CX-5 Signature for 3 weeks. It took me all of a day to get used to the controller and don’t miss touch screens at all. It’s a non-issue. My mom got a new car yesterday and I was helping her set everything up. All I noticed were the fingerprints all over her touchscreen.
Agree. Just got my signature 4 days ago. I actually prefer the non touch screen
We lease a 2018 CX5 Touring, and for $272 a month, zero down, 3 year lease, it's easy to adjust to the infotainment system. It's 85% as luxurious as our old RX, 50% of the price, and 300% more fun to drive.
Yes! I was comparing this to an acura rdx, and the mazda cx-5 doesn't leave you wanting in the luxury department. Very comparable to the lower end luxury line ups.
Mazda's knob is a hill I will die on and I never want to use another touch screen in a car again.
Fight me.
Touch screens are so overrated
I fully disagree but commend your passion. 👍
@@MicahMuzio Because you don't want to sleep on the couch.
I’m with you!
I have the new Mazda 3 turbo and I have no issue with the scroll wheel, it’s super easy
That’s good to hear 👌 I heard it’s hard idk lol
Are you thinking of getting ppf ? I just bought mazda3 hatch too but worried about stone chips. But the ppf is crazy expensive too lol
When you actually own the vehicle, you get used to how the infotainment works. When you’re driving you feel for the knob and twist to do go through the menus without ever having to look down at the knob. Combine that with the quick access buttons which automatically adjust in function for Apple CarPlay, and I can easily do what I want now rather quickly after 3 years of owning Mazda vehicles. I’m saying this as someone who came from Kia’s, which are known for their easy to use touch screen infotainments.
Ok then so how do you input navigation destinations without an on screen touch keyboard using CarPlay or Android Auto (without using voice commands)?
@@tails300 Mazda’s new infotainment has a circular screen that allows you to type in addresses. While the vehicle is in motion, CarPlay requires voice commands to do any advance functions. With that said, having owned and rented cars with both, I wouldn’t recommend trying to input addresses or change destinations while in motion(assuming no voice controls) with either knob or touch screen. Do that pulled over or better yet, before you leave driveway. Any one who thinks trying to reach over and input “1234 TH-cam St, Muzio, CA” on a touchscreen while driving is so much more intuitive and less distracting than a knob is fooling themselves big time.
Regardless of how you input the address, you're welcome to join us in Muzio, CA. :)
@@tails300 Well, I generally know where I'm going prior to starting my drive. I've only had the CX-5 a few days so, not sure how voice commands work or if they would with Waze, which I use through my Apple Play. In any case, I just enter the address into Waze before I start driving. Not a problem. If something were to change, I see no problem in pulling over to make changes to my destination. Not a problem at all.
I actually chose the car partially FOR the infotainment. I find having a rotary dial instead of touch screen is way less distracting, as you keep your hand in one spot, and it all becomes muscle memory. Its much easier to use on bumpy or winding roads instead of your hand moving around while you try to find that exact spot on the screen to press
Owners of Mazdas with the older infotainment that had the scroll wheel and the touch screen together. Did any of you ever use the touch screen? I can count on my hand the number of times I’ve used the touch screen in the past 5 years. The scroll wheel is less distracting in my experience, and I have a Honda with a touchscreen for comparison.
I’ve used my touch screen maybe once the wheel and controls are just so much more convenient to use to me.
I used it once and hated it the scroll wheel is dope love it with the wheel
I guess I'm always going to be in the minority about the whole touchscreen thing. I got used to using a knob in about a day, and never used the touchscreen again in my car (has both). I find it much more distracting to have to figure out and see where your finger lands on a touchscreen while driving, whereas muscle memory develops with the knob. I don't have to look at the screen at all to do what I want it to do.
...That and I already have enough fingerprints on my phone, it gets really disgusting really quick in a car.
Minority here too!
I recently had to rent a car for 3 weeks, prior to purchasing my new car. Luckily, I was able to experience the insanity of a touch screen and realized immediately, I hated it. I can't tell you how jazzed I was to learn that the Mazda had gone away from it. It definitely factored into my decision to purchase the CX-5.
I never felt the infotainment system was complicated or hard to get used to. Honestly, not being able to use the touch screen has been one of my highlights of Mazda. I became quite efficient using the main dial and most of the time could use the system without taking my eyes off the road.
Love the video though!!
The other important thing to note is that reliability is really great for Mazdas now. They left ford in 2015 and since then they've been excelling in quality
Have a 2018 Touring and still love it. I realized I don't care about not having a touch screen and find myself missing a control knob when driving my wife's outback without it.
Infotainment is different but imo once you get used to it & take advantage of the shortcut buttons its way easier to use. Can't stand trying to stretch my arm out to poke & peck at a touchscreen now.
Exactly, your hand falls right on the knob and you aren't stretching and poking at stuff while driving over bumps!
Exactly!
I got a 2020 mazda 3 don’t miss the touchscreen at all, I don’t even look at the screen when I use the wheel for that long of a time to where it’s as you said distracting, you end up getting used to it and plus how much scrolling are you even gonna use? There’s buttons on the side for shortcuts
I prefer the dial over the touchscreen. My Mazda3 is a stick shift, and it's a much shorter reach from the shifter to the dial. I'm also slightly OCD about fingerprints. If I used the touchscreen, I would probably wipe it with a cloth after every touch. It didn't take long to be able to use the dial intuitively.
I test drove one of these cars and I loved it. The inside is so high end compared to any of the other competitors I have seen.
We have the 2021 CX-9 and love the rotary knob. It takes some getting used to but is so user friendly. There's no reaching for the screen; Just sit back and glance over. We use Android auto though, so maybe that's the big factor?
Might be a little outdated comment but I received my CX-5 yesterday and my wife loves the knob option as she wouldn't be able to reach the screen from her seat, the knob option gives her a great opportunity to play around with the media features while I do the driving.
I own a 2015 mazda 3. On navigation, i use the voice command to say the whole address instead of typing on screen. I use the scroll wheel and shortcut buttons very often. When switching to a radio station, i just say the station number and it switches to it.
@Micah Might wanna correct that information explosion on the engine specs- 227 hp 310 torque on regular or 250hp 320 torque on Premium
Good note. We should've clarified regarding fuel. Thanks!
Well in the video it’s citing the hp numbers of the Honda 2.0T (252 hp/ 273 lb ft)
I never, ever use the touch screen on any car while driving. Its as distracting and unsafe as a cell phone (who's use is ostensibly illegal in California while in motion). I prefer the dial/knob over reaching to touch. Just like the touch pad and toggle on a laptop once you get used to it you can fly through the screen. TBH I'd take the CX-5 turbo over a Bronco any day. The Bronco is cool, but the Mazda is such a well rounded vehicle. Great handling, great acceleration, quiet, nice ride, very upscale materials, nice styling and one of the biggest pluses - its very reliable. I don't know if you can say that about a new Ford model in its first year of production.
And it’s such a beautiful looking SUV too!
Mazda invented an infotainment system that can't be used while driving. It's perfect for drivers like you. The rest of us will need to buy something else, because this system is a deal breaker. Touchscreens are faster and safer in every way.
@@haze1123 It can be used while driving. You just can't poke at the screen with your finger which requires you to take your eyes off the road and studies have shown is about as dangerous as driving while drunk. Use a tactile knob doesn't cause this problem - that's why Mazda uses it and locks out the touch ability when the car is in motion.
@@jeffmorse645 You can't use the control knob with also looking at the screen. Terrible design.
I purchase a 2020 CX-5 Grand Touring Reserve.As a single guy I love the room and comfort. Great retirement car.
The safest infotainment system is the Mazda way. If you enjoy driving then you will love a Mazda. Am sorry to say Evie can’t multitask because with Mazda you should be able to drive and do whatever you want to do on your infotainment system
i have a 2021 CX5 Signature Turbo. My infotainment screen is touchscreen. Every icon in the Carplay screen works by touch. When i touch the Mazda icon in carplay it takes me to the main Mazda screen. Those icons too are workable by touch.
Different for differ ppl it seems- for me, i do not like touch screens at all. Yea you need to look at the screen to scroll with the wheel but for me, its a shorter look just to determine how many clicks rather than needing to keep looking while i poke at it. Plus, with the wheel, owners should be able to get used to it whereas touchscreen will always need your eyes to look at it so you dont poke the wrong thing
0:44 Evie is so sweet, she even completely trashes people in a charming way!
The infotaiment knob acts like steering wheel mounted buttons, if you use it enough you don't need to look at any of the buttons to activate your cruise control or AM/FM, Bluetooth, track, volume, etc.
I prefer the knob over the touch screen, once you get use to it and hoe it's works it's really intuitive and easy to use.
Proof that mountain people say "Meander"
Ok, your daughter, with her thinking comment, just showed some really high order thinking right there. I'm more impressed by that than by the car. It's a great idea. She was totally paying attention to what you guys were saying. 👍🏾👍🏾
As a '19 Mazda3 owner, have to strongly disagree about the infotainment, I love it! Yes, it has a bit of a learning curve, but I know where my cursor is going now without having to look, or, I know how many clicks I need to turn the knob with one look. Overall I would say I keep my eyes on the road more.
The mast majority of touchscreen systems don't let you dig into the menus and settings unless you're parked, either, so I'm not sure what you guys are getting at. You can still do everything you need to control nav/media/carplay/android auto while driving.
** IF ** you are looking for a used 2021 CX-5 with a Turbo 2.5L PLEASE have it looked at by a mechanic. ALL Turbo '21 2.5L Mazda Models have been suffering from oil consumption issues due to the valve guides/seals leaking. There is a Mazda TSB as well as a CA lawsuit that has been filed. Not sure if this was caused by supply chain issues back then? It was during the height of the pandemic.
-Note: Some '21 2.5L Turbo models are unaffected at this time, and the normally aspirated ones so far are fine as well.
Hey man! I'm absolutely and utterly impressed by your LA flyovers. Definitely the best thing I've seen on TH-cam this year... I've got a request: Fly parallel to the Sunset Strip but from the north side, so that we can see the houses on the hills (Bird Streets in particular). That or a flyover of Hancock park. Please keep flying, thank you and stay safe!
CX-5 does have touchscreen , link phone , menu surf vehicle connectivity , click 'Touchscreen in motion '
Have had a Touring 2021 for a month. Once your subconscious adapts to the Infotainment system it's less distracting than a touchscreen and safer. We mastered the learning curve. Our 2021 Touring MX-5 is a very nice car and we believe we made a good choice after owning a Subaru Forester with the CVT-we were never comfortable with that transmission. The MX 5 is smooth.
i don't get it why people complain about the none touch screen, I just got my CX5 GTR last week, and my previously 3 cars were touch screen, I found out I took more time and eyes off the road to use touch screen, also I have to lean over my body to touch the screen(I have short arm). When I get used to the knob, I dont have to/less time see the screen to do thing. Also on touch screen the stupid fingerprints all over the screen and I have to clean it!!
I actually really enjoy the dial over the touch screen. I find it easier while moving since it’s in a much more of a natural position for your right arm while your left is on the wheel. Where I miss it though is when your using maps in CarPlay. It’s kind of feels weird using the dial (when you want move around the map) as opposed to dragging. Kind of feels like the joystick of a claw machine then haha. Other than that I actually prefer it.
I have the 2016 Mazda 3 currently and the infotainment is touch capable. I have never used the touch controls apart from when I first got the car and was trying to test all the features.
LOL... you guys are too cute for your own good! To Evie's point on the infotainment system, while I can appreciate her perspective, it would not be a deal-breaker for me on this model. Mazda continues to evolve very nicely. Overall, a very nice review.
I have a 2015 mazda 3 2.0 w manual tranny. Has touchscreen and rotary knob BUT so annoying that it locks out the touch screen when the car is not at stand still. And stupid warning about the screen that you have to click each time you turn the car on.
On the plus side, so fun to drive, great steering, shifter feel, and handling. Stick engine note is pretty decent too.
I would get it. But, Mazda should improve the following on the cx5 : 1) make it slightly bigger to match CRV n Rav4 2) Offer better mpg for standard and offer a hybrid option that beats Toyota. I’m sure it’s in the works but that’s what I would look for... if I were in the market to buy a Mazda
I wasn't in the market to buy a Mazda...until I was. I was jonesin' for a 2022 Tucson until our local dealers were adding $4995.00 to the MSRP just because. Something about a chip shortage I guess, made it okay to rip off the consumer. It was absolutely offensive! Not to mention, their Hybrids were nowhere to be found anyway. So, that pretty much opened the door for me to begin shopping around and I am ecstatic that I found the CX-5 Carbon. I couldn't believe my luck, even though there is no Hybrid model. The car is so amazing, I was willing to abandon the hybrid ideal I was searching for.
We love our CX5 and find that the absence of the touch screen to work very well after a short learning time. The Toyota vehicle that the CX5 replaced had a touch screen infotainment system that was AWFUL and is one of the reasons we most likely wouldn’t buy a Toyota again.
the infotainment system is something you get used to. all I use it for is to change music stations. and you can do that on the steering wheel. also volume
So much discussion about the touchscreen, and I get it, but the one thing that drives me crazy about my new 2021 CX-5 Signature is that it's too much work to change the Sirius XM channel. I HATE that the steering wheel buttons only function as restart song/next song buttons even in XM, rather than next channel. So you have to turn the knob and then click the knob go change the channel, a two-step process. Even on my old 2013 Mazda 3, you could change the channel by (a) clicking once on the steering wheel button to go to the next favorite, (b) holding the steering wheel button to seek, (c) using the seek buttons on the center console (which do not exist in 2021), or (d) hitting the preset buttons on the doggone touchscreen. How is it possible that Mazda has made something less user friendly than it was 8 years ago?
Other than that I love everything about this car! I drove a BMW X3 and an Audi q5 and a Volvo XC40 right before I drove the CX-5, and I actually thought the Mazda was the most fun to drive of the bunch. Call me crazy.
Out of these four which you like best. Mazda CX-5 Signature, Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited, Toyota Venza, or Kia Sorento X-line ?
All these Mazda fans are arguing that touch screen is annoying and bad, but other brands also offer knobs. They just provide more options unlike Mazda. So this has to be a downside.
The vehicle audio system is not the dea breaker but child car seat fitting in the back!
I thought the law mandated that all Mazda press vehicles have to be Soul Red.
Without a touch screen how to input the address in the apple/google maps? how to change destinations/add stop without touch screen while driving? I do this all the time and the lack of touch screen is persuading me away from this Car.
I'm perfectly happy with the Touch Screen while stationary setup. I can type with the on-screen keyboard before I start driving, and after I started driving, all I really need is Audio Control, which is the command dial would be perfectly fine.
A choice should be offered. However, if one was not OCD before you will become one with a touch screen! Fingerprints galor! We have the CX5 grand touring and learning the knob functions comes quickly. Keeping one’s eyes on the road is more important than having a distracting touch screen. Now for the passenger it could be advantageous. Lastly, we use Apple-car play and utilize Siri a lot. I think Android phone user will do the same. The driving experience is awesome!
Congratulations to both of you for 21 years of marriage. That's great.👍🏻
So difficult to achieve. And they look like they still like each other.
My goodness! How old are they?
@@bill7481 gotta be pushing 37-40 if they married young
Will Evie test the new Venza Hybrid ? AWD too.
I think an Evie Venza review can be arranged.
That vehicle has allot of tire noise. It’s no Lexus.
Plot twist: That man crossing the road was a bunch of squirrels dressed as a human. You almost fell for their trap.
👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Just shows not all the squirrels are in the forest...love the CX-5 though, we have 2 in the family.
Thanks for a fun video. Gotta say, though, that I can`t imagine any infotainment system being a deal breaker. I`m buying a car, not a smartphone/laptop. The touchscreen on my Type R is both terribly distracting and annoying, but it didn`t stop me from buying the car, nor would a knob and button interface.
Micah, you just kinda blew my mind. I had no idea the Mazda logo was a stylized "M". I just assumed it was wings inside a squaroid or just a pure abstraction. It seems obvious now that I know, of course.
We cut it from the video for the sake of time, but Evie also had no idea the Mazda logo was an M. You’re in hood company.
I had the same mind-blown feeling when I learned that the Toyota logo was basically the letters of Toyota superimposed over each other.
The symbol stands for Mazda's determination to “pursue ongoing improvements to drive powerful, continuous growth”, expressed by a pair of wings shaped like a letter M in an oval. The V-shaped wings are also suggestive of Mazda's flexible thinking, creativity, vitality, kindness and resilience.
@@buchajo No mention of Ahuramazda? I kind of preferred the prior logo. The one that's on the third gen RX-7.
I read it somewhere that it’s actually an owl head. When they changed the logo, the person responsible for changing it got it’s inspiration from nature and saw or choose an owl.
If you use Apple carplay or android auto, you can mount your phone and use your phone as touchscreen.
Don’t listen to these people. I own a CX-5 GT and it’s an incredible car!!! I feel like it’s right up there with a luxury crossover.
Test drove 2021-Rav4, CRV, Rouge,, and Forester and only the CX5 have the best driving dynamics for my liking; Others feels very floaty or overly electronically assisted- and pricing wise they’re all about the same price or even more expensive e.g. the top of the line RAV4; Both RAV4 and CRV have a very dated looking screens and very grainy back-up cameras and of course that CVT on the CRV, Rogue, and Forester is 👎.That’s probably the reason why I always see the CX5 as one of the top choices in reviews such as Car and Drivers etc. - The only downside with the CX5 is the fuel economy, but if you want that power and a snappy acceleration then this is the car for you. I believe I made the perfect decision and choice in getting the Mazda CX5 Signature! #zoomzoom
I own a ‘17 at least. The infotainment is great once you get used to it. Can be annoying but it gets quick after time and not so bad I think.
If you're using the smartphone hookup like AppleCar Play for navigation (Maps/Google Maps), can't you just ask Siri to set a destination? I thought that would be the main source of frustration when not having touchscreen.
Ahm, I think the hp is 250@95 and 227@87 and the torque are 310-320.
You are spot on with your self driving vehicle comment for so many reasons! Great review as always! You definitely have found a niche in the youtube car reviewer land.
Your daughter eloquently predicted the automotive future .🥳🥳🥳Nice .
I am obsess with mazda CX 5, iam looking to purchase one.
Ohhhh I love the infotainment knob!!! it takes time… don’t knock it till you use it daily.
Isnt it 250hp and 320lb-ft torque?
Love my mazda cx5 I’ved been touching screen too much on my phone already. I leave it to that! I want my car screen print free. I’m more into driving experience not touch screen while driving.
Mazda changed their screens because the Mazda 2016 had touchscreen and use of the knob, you just could not use the touchscreen while driving - they need to bring these functions onto their new cars
Love you too Evie!! Whatever lake you guys were at, it was beautiful.
I love the metallic grey color
Ive liked and owned older mazdas and The first one I bought got great gas mileage. It was strong and in the shop, Ive worked on few of them. Mechanically mazda has always been pretty good. Though again I cant say now for the new cars because Im retired from the shop.
Still dont like the electronics.
So curious, why not test drive some crazy things? We got the dragster down, how about a tank? A monster truck? Real rock climbing 4X4? A semi truck? F 15 eagle?
Just an idea. :)
Love these reviews ... keep doing this man👍
My husband and I moved to the mountains too! I totally get it man
My family owns a business making safety mats.
Personally I see myself selling mirrors, but it’s something to fall back on.
Ok this is greatnesses overload. Love the content guys!
HP and Torque number are wrong
250Hp/320Tq
252hp?//273#torque ? that's not the turbo cx-5 specs
Love this review...great job Evie!
My wife & I really wanted to like the CX-5, but good gravy - those front seats are terribly uncomfortable!
I’d prefer if Mazda just had the steering wheel vibrate to alert the driver of possible danger. But I love it overall !
I believe you can turn on that feature instead of getting the beeping all the time
Mine vibrates on my 21’
The CX5 is nice, but I ended up choosing the Toyota Venza, it had more standard features and it was quieter
Awesome video and we love you too Evie!😸
Loved this!
0:22 thought it had over 300 of torque
Having to be parked to use this infotainment sounds like an Evie problem, not a Mazda problem.
Love the Lancia Stratos T-shirt.
I also like the Mazda but I'm biased by driving a ND Miata that has a """similar""" style 😅
(P.S. I like the rotary selector for the screen, but it's my first daily with a big color infotainment so I don't have comparisons...)
Good call on that Miata. Such a wonderful little car.
@@MicahMuzio Thanks Micah!
Yes, I love that little red soft top, so sweet to drive 😍.
You online car journalists convinced me and I'm really grateful 😁
Micah what kind of car do you drive? Just curious
We’ve got a 2008 Honda CR-V, I ride a 2017 Yamaha FZ-09, and in the near future we’ll have a 2021 Ford Bronco.
@@MicahMuzio nice! I just got a 2021 outback, but I want to get my girlfriend a Bronco sport.
that thick A pillar can save your life one day, though.
And yes, we love you too Evie!!!!!!!!
Just 6 airbags??? I don’t get out of bed for less than 10
You guys have me laughing with the left or right thing because I know someone who is the same way...It's never "left" or "right" - it's "this way" or "that way"! Too funny!
I’ve owned a new Mazda for about 5 months now and I’ve learned to use the system via the knob begrudgingly. Yes I can use it without looking. Yes it’s easy now.. but I’d rather just use a touch screen. It’s quicker and easier.
Definitely wouldn’t want to touch the screen driving through a winding mountain road....scroll knob it is 🤖
Love you too, Evie!
When turning , active safety can be deceived ...turning and censors don't mix well yet .
Imagine Evie's reaction if Ford made a last minute change to the Bronco and got rid of the touchscreen.
Has Evie driven a Toyota 4 Runner?? 🤔