2017 Mazda CX-5 | Consumer Guide Auto

2017 Mazda CX-5

Pros: Nimble handling; excellent road manners; responsive powertrain; upscale trimmings on high-end trim levels

Cons: Not as much cargo room as some class competitors; some testers dislike console-mounted infotainment control knob

CG Says: Mazda’s compact SUV is redesigned for 2017, gaining fresh styling and a host of new features on a stiffer, quieter structure. The new CX-5 differs little in size from its predecessor, but has a lower center of gravity and a slightly wider track. The sole powertrain is Mazda’s 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G four-cylinder paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission; the engine has been updated to make 187 horsepower versus the previous CX-5’s 184. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is optional. A heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, reclining rear seat backs, and a power liftgate are among the CX-5’s newly available comfort and convenience features. Available safety features include autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist, head-up instrument display, traffic-sign recognition, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality. The first-generation Mazda CX-5 has long been one of our favorite compact SUVs, and the second-generation model improves on it in every way. Some larger compact-SUV competitors are better at hauling cargo and some have more user-friendly infotainment systems, but the CX-5’s engaging driving personality, high-quality interior, and respectable fuel-economy numbers make it an excellent choice.

The Facts

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: $24,045 AWD Sport: $25,345 2WD Touring: $25,915 AWD Touring: $27,215 2WD Grand Select: $28,895 AWD Grand Select: $30,195 2WD Grand Touring: $29,395 AWD Grand Touring: $30,695