2024 Mazda CX-5: A Time-Tested Contender in the Compact SUV Market

The Mazda CX-5 proves its worth as a timeless contender. Spending a week with the 2024 CX-5 2.5 Turbo Signature model ($40,600 as tested), I was impressed by its lively acceleration, agile handling, and responsive steering. It maintains a sporty demeanor while ensuring a comfortable ride, effortlessly smoothing out uneven road surfaces. The CX-5’s exterior has aged gracefully since its debut in 2017, though signs of its extended presence are more evident within the cabin. Despite this, the interior exudes sophistication and solidity, offering ample passenger and cargo space. However, Mazda’s knob-controlled infotainment system detracts from the overall experience, complicating simple tasks and restricting touchscreen functionality while driving. Nevertheless, the CX-5 remains a standout choice in its class, particularly given its starting price of $29,300. It competes favorably against rivals like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Hyundai Tucson, as well as Mazda’s newer CX-50 sibling.

Is the 2024 Mazda CX-5 a Good SUV?

Undoubtedly, the 2024 CX-5 stands out as an exceptional compact SUV. With its accessible pricing, robust engine performance, top-notch driving dynamics, and well-crafted interior, it has earned recognition as a finalist for the 2024 Best Compact SUV for the Money award. Despite its lack of recent updates, the CX-5 impresses across the board.

Should I Buy the 2024 Mazda CX-5?

The CX-5 deserves serious consideration, especially for those seeking a balance of performance and practicality. However, alternative options may better suit specific preferences. The Hyundai Tucson, for instance, offers a luxurious interior laden with advanced features, prioritizing family comfort over spirited driving. Meanwhile, the Subaru Forester appeals to cargo-hauling needs and boasts slightly better fuel efficiency.

Which Is the Best Mazda CX-5 to Buy?

Opting for the 2.5 S Preferred trim is our recommendation. This upgrade introduces significant enhancements like genuine leather upholstery, a power-adjustable passenger seat, a power liftgate, and a moonroof, all at a modest price increase. Additionally, it incorporates most of the CX-5’s tech and driver-assistance features.

2024 CX-5 Interior Quality

The 2024 CX-5 impresses with its premium interior quality, featuring upscale materials, soft-touch surfaces, and refined design elements. It rivals entry-level luxury vehicles in material quality and design, a notable feat given its price point.

2024 CX-5 Cargo Space

While slightly smaller than some competitors, the CX-5 offers 30.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, providing ample versatility.

2024 CX-5 Seating Capacity

Accommodating up to five passengers, the CX-5’s seats offer comfort and support for occupants of all sizes. While the rear row may feel snug with three adults, there’s generous legroom and headroom throughout. Standard features include synthetic leather upholstery, a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, with higher trims offering additional luxuries such as genuine leather upholstery and heated rear seats.

2024 CX-5 Engine

The base model is equipped with a 187-horsepower four-cylinder engine and all-wheel drive, delivering peppy performance but lacking enthusiasm at higher speeds. Upgrading to the turbocharged engine boosts output to 227 horsepower (or 256 horsepower with premium fuel), providing a significant power increase and improving passing capability.

2024 CX-5 Gas Mileage

With the standard engine, the 2024 CX-5 achieves 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. Opting for the turbocharged engine slightly reduces these figures to 22/27 mpg city/highway.

Photo Source: Mazda Canada