Flash Drive

2016 Mazda CX-5

August 30, 2015 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD

The 2016 Mazda CX-5 is a feature laden mid-size crossover SUV that does everything well.
The 2016 Mazda CX-5 is a feature laden mid-size crossover SUV that does everything well.

Engine: 2.5-liter 4-cylinder gas, 184 horsepower, 185 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 6-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel-drive

EPA Ratings: 24/City—30/Highway—26/Combined

Base Price: $29,470

As Tested: $33,840

Performance:

An excellent mix of pep and frugality

We came very close to EPA estimates

Great Skyactiv technology

Following distance cruise control

Lane departure warning

Blind spot monitoring

Sport mode button by shifter

The thick, contoured steering features excellent auxiliary controls.
The thick, contoured steering features excellent auxiliary controls.

Good acceleration

Pleasant highway ride

Good size for city parking

Competent off road driving 

Comfort:

Second row a little tight unless front seats are moved up

Ample rear headroom

Good shoe room under front seats

Low floor hump for middle seating position

Soft armrest

Four grab handles

Great front passenger/driver legroom

Medium-thick, contoured steering wheel

The interior is very roomy in front and fair in the second row.
The interior is very roomy in front and fair in the second row.

Very nice auxiliary controls

Three temp heated front seats

Power driver lumbar support

Utility:

Slope of rear window (hatch) affects cargo space

Small rear door bins

Two soft seatback storage pouches

Big, deep glove box, but no lock

Medium size, oddly shaped console bin

Two-part sun visors

Medium size sunroof

Nice console control knob for music, navigation, info, etc.

Three-way split folding seat

Folding seat releases in cargo area

Seats fold flat

Flat cargo floor

Wow Factors:

One of the most well rounded SUVs

The slanted rear hatch looks good, but it affects the cargo space.
The slanted rear hatch looks good, but it affects the cargo space.

A strong value proposition

Lots of safety/tech features

Nice styling

Whines:

Roof design cuts into cargo space

Bottom Line:

The 2016 Mazda CX-5 crossover SUV shines because it does everything very well. It’s not wild or exciting, but the total package (including price and fuel economy) does a wonderful job of integrating state-of-the-art technology, comfort, utility, safety, and a pleasant driving experience. The Mazda CX-5 is a winning combination.