2016 CX-5
Pros: Excellent fuel economy; wonderfully nimble, sporty driving character for an SUV; impressive cabin materials for the class and price point
Cons: Somewhat sluggish acceleration at low speeds with base engine; touchscreen graphics are a bit too small for easy legibility; no under-floor storage compartment in the rear cargo area
CG Says: For 2016 Mazda CX-5 get styling tweaks inside and out. CX-5 also gains an updated infotainment system with larger screen and newly available LED headlights. Midyear, a rearview camera became standard on all models except the Sport with manual transmission. Also Touring and Grand Touring gained standard navigation. We gave the Mazda CX-5 a Consumer Guide Best Buy award for its impressive fuel economy, fun-to-drive character, and all-around value. We’re also impressed that the 2.5 engine’s fuel-economy ratings are only 1-2 mpg less than the less powerful 2.0’s. Any CX-5 feels sportier than its main rivals, with little penalty in ride quality or overall practicality. It remains a compact-SUV must-see.
| Class | Compact SUV |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Mazda |
| Nation of Manufacture | Japan |
| Base Prices | 2WD Sport: $21,795 AWD Sport: $24,895 2WD Touring: $25,215 AWD Touring: $26,515 2WD Grand Touring: $28,570 AWD Grand Touring: $29,870 |
| Base Engine 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 155 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed manual |
| Avail. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 25-26 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 31-35 |
| Optional Engine 2.5-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 184 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 24-26 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 30-33 |
