Flash Drive

2017 Mazda CX-5

July 19, 2017 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2017 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD

The 2017 Mazda CX-5 is handsomely styled like all the Mazda SUVs.

Engine: 2.5-liter I-4, 187 horsepower 185 lb-ft torque

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

EPA Rating: 23-mpg city/29-mpg highway/26-mpg combined

Base Price: $30,695

As Tested: $34,085

Performance:

Smooth highway ride

Peppy engine, good acceleration

Sport mode didn’t make big difference

Good fuel economy; we averaged 26.3 mpg

The short rear quarter panels cause the wheel wells to crowd the rear door space.

No manual 4×4 controls

Good, confident off-road manners

Lane departure and blind spot warning

Smart brake support

Head up display

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick

Comfort:

Stretch-out front passenger and driver legroom

Three temperatures heated front seats

Driver power lumbar support

Heated leather steering wheel

Thick, contoured leather-wrapped wheel

There is ample cargo space behind the split, folding rear seats. The lift gate is powered actuated.

Very good auxiliary controls

Quality interior materials

OK adult rear seat room if fronts are up some

Good under seat shoe room

Wide rear armrest

Excellent rear headroom

Tall, wide rear floor hump

Rear doors open almost 90-degrees

A lot of rear wheelwell door intrusion

Utility:

Split folding rear seats; slight slope

Small glovebox; no lock

Deep, medium size console bin

Small to medium size power moonroof

Rear outboard seats are heated when the Premium Package is selected.

Soft, pliable seatback storage pouches

Medium to large front door bins

Medium size, but deep rear door bins

Solid door shut

Power liftgate with ample clearance

Flat cargo floor

Neat rear seat release levers by liftgate

Rain sensing wipers

High beam control

WOW Factors:

Excellent head up display

Handsome styling, sharp alloy wheels

Nice central control knob for radio and navigation

Front seat space and comfort are excellent as are all the controls.

IIHS Top Safety Pick since 2012

Very pleasant driving manners

Whines:

Backseat a little snug with fronts all back

No lock on glovebox

Bottom Line:

The 2017 Mazda CX-5 does everything well. It’s one of the best crossover SUVs on the market and should be cross-shopped by anyone looking for a vehicle in this segment. The CX-5 is comfortable, stylish, competent, and safe.