Flash Drive

2019 Mazda CX-5

April 3, 2019 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 
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Model Tested: 2019 Mazda CX-5 Signature AWD

The 2019 Mazda CX-5 is a very handsome mid-size SUV especially in the optional Soul Red Crystal paint.

Engine:2.5-liter turbocharged I-4, 227-horsepower, 310 lb-ft torque

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

EPA Rating: 22-mpg city, 27-mpg highway, 24-mpg combined

Base Price: $36,890

As Tested: $39,325

Performance:

Powerful engine, strong acceleration

Horsepower rating jumps to 250 with premium fuel

Extra power a welcome plus to an already great engine

Turbo boost very noticeable on freeway onramps

The 2019 Mazda CX-5 looks good from all angles. New for 2019 is a turbocharged engine option.

Sport mode

Smooth transmission

Good highway ride, but it can be a little choppy

Good fuel economy—we averaged 26.7-mpg

Rain sensing wipers

Head up display

Extensive safety features

Nimble and confident in bad weather and on bad roads

Comfort:

Excellent front seats

Heated and ventilated front seats (3 temps)

Driver power lumbar support

Slightly contoured, heated leather steering wheel

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

Very good auxiliary controls

Wide adjustment range for steering column

Stretch-out front legroom

Heated rear seats

Acceptable rear seat legroom if fronts are up slightly

Ample rear shoe room

Utility:

Power liftgate with ample clearance

Ample cargo space

Flat cargo deck

Medium size glove box, no lock

Medium front door bins with bottle notches

Rear seat legroom is good if the front seats are moved up slightly.

Small console bin

Nice seatback storage pouches

Easy to use infotainment controls with large control knob

WOW Factors:

New, more powerful turbocharged engine

Great surround camera aids parking

Heated steering wheel

Skyactiv technology works very well

Great front row room and comfort

Whines:

Caturra Brown (very dark) leather upholstery was an odd color, black or tan would be better

Cargo space is good and easily accessed via a power lift gate.

19-inch wheels affect ride smoothness

Bottom Line:

The 2019 Mazda CX-5 isn’t much changed from the excellent 2018 iteration. The biggest news and plus is the availability of a more powerful turbocharged engine. The Mazda CX-5 is a near perfect mid-size SUV—not too big or small, spacious inside, powerful and economical, lots of standard desirable features, nicely styled, very comfortable, and affordably priced.