To learn more about the 2021 CX-5 and to see where it ranks, check out: driversonly.medium.com/2021-mazda-cx-5-still-one-of-the-best-compact-suvs-fd6629f19435
You overlooked reliability. I drive a 2015 and want a new one. The problem is after 6 years my CX-5 drives like the day I bought it. 6 years of trouble free driving!
This is awesome news to hear ! I just leased a 21’ Grand Touring and I’m already thinking i want to buy it after 3 years. I got the $1625 Premium Package that add 6 lovely features like ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, windshield wiper de-icer, heated, folding outside mirrors and other things. I got snowflake white pearl exterior w parchment leather.
Like most people, I’m not looking for maximum utility when considering a CUV. I’m looking for a blend with an emphasis on things that are important such as quality, handling, composure, safety, reliability and comfort. Maximum backseat space for grown adults and cargo is less important. Otherwise, I’d be watching a video on Suburban or Tahoe. This vehicle hits all the right notes on my priorities list. Well done, Mazda!
You mean a CX-7? We haven't had that in the U.S. in a long time. They need to bring it back as a midsize crossover between the CX-5 & CX-9 with rear seat & cargo space closer to the CX-9 but in a two-row crossover/ SUV
Everyone always giving Mazda a hard.time.for the 6sp but you nailed it - it's always in the right gear and shifts well. Hard to drop that for 2more MPG on the highway.
Just bought a 2020 Touring with the Preferred Package. Best combination of price and options. I think this will be my favorite car, ever. That's saying a lot, as I bought my first in 1977.
no panaromic sunroof is a deal breaker for me. Why the fuck is Mazda not getting with the program. I almost bought the Kuro edition but backed off due to that roof.
Why? Cause the majority of people don’t even use a sunroof. That’s a fact. Plus having a full pano is a detriment to the structural integrity of the roof in the event of accident. That’s also a fact
@@Mrtellitlikeitis Most people dont use the windows in their house, fact and windows reduce the structural integrity of the house and are a weak point in a house where criminals can enter your home, also facts. But hey everyone prefers having more windows in the house, only reason coz everyone likes the light it brings and also it opens up the space
Leased a 2021 CX-5 Grand Touring FWD w/ $1625,00 premium package in Snowflake White Pearl, 10 days ago. I have 331 miles on her since I left this comment. MSRP is $33,755 incl. destination. My main complaints are that the seats aren’t great, my butt hurts after 20 minutes but they do look nice. Also Mazda doesn’t offer the Rubber Floor & Cargo mats for any price. My 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan did and I like that. There are no hydraulic hood struts unlike my Tiguan. I wish this trim incl. the 360° around view camera. I wish the wiper/turn stalk script was illuminated at dark. Maybe Mazda will offer a panoramic sunroof on the next generation. There are plenty of nice little touches around the cabin like a felt-lined glove box, however it’s not lockable. I’d like a frameless rear view mirror and a Qi wireless phone charger but higher trims probably offer that. I will probably put stickier tires on her soon. It would be nice to have remote start on the key fob but I do have the Mazda Connect app on my phone which offers lots of useful options. This vehicle is smooth. The heated steering wheel and heated rear seats and ventilated front seats are nice. The space for me is not an issue as I’m a single male. The parchment leather looks great but I have installed seat covers. I feel the breaks are much softer than my 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan. The power fold mirrors and auto door locking when I walk away is great! Gas mileage has matched or exceeded the EPA rating. The LED headlights and fog lights work great and the auto high beam is terrific. I’m still pretty happy with this Japanese manufactured crossover. There is a learning curve to the infotainment system but it works great and I don’t miss the touch screen at all, the commander knob works great! Lastly I wish Mazda would cover the dead pedal with quality plastic cover because it’s simply carpeted and is prone to get dirty and display wear & tear. As George says, the steering, handling, and quietness are all above average. I drove the competition and only the Hyundai Tucson would make the cut if I didn’t get Mazda but only with their more powerful engine option. I did come extremely close to buying a Toyota Venza and was at the table negotiating with a manager, but an elderly couple came in with a bank draft offering sticker price at 9am, 25 minutes after I arrived to make a deal. The seats in the Venza would be better for me but the styling is too soft for a young guy in my opinion. It wasn’t the car for me.
excellent overview of the CX5, best I've seen thus far. I have spent time driving the 2021 CX5 GTR. I mostly agree with each point made here, both pros and cons. I would have to say I'd also like to see perhaps an inch wider wheel base. I agree the cabin space is also a point to consider. I'm a medium size guy with perhaps wider than average shoulders. I don't usually drive with a large person in passenger front seat, but when I do it does feel a bit tight on the width. The cabin overall is very comfortable, others have complained about the seats being too stiff, but I think they're ok, not too soft and cushiony. The back is definitely not for large people, not an issue for everyone. Engine? My advice, DEFINITELY spend the extra for the turbo 2.5. Coming from a V6 before the non-turbo feels like it's constantly trying to rev up to speed. As mentioned here- the 6 speed transmission in this works quite well, almost always finds the right gear . Tires that come stock could be better. Toyo A36 just ok. Non- touch screen is a non-issue for me also, wheel control works great , and probably safer.
Mazda could fix row 2 space, if they made the 2nd row slide back when not much in cargo area and vice versa, like the new ford escape. when you need more passenger space let the 2nd row slide back into cargo area, when you need more cargo area, slide the 2nd row forward or fold down completely.
Want an SUV but don't need room in the back seat or cargo capacity? The CX-5 is the vehicle for you. Unfortunately for Mazda it's those weaknesses that put a ceiling on CX-5 sales.
I owned a 2016 CX-5 for 4 years, while I liked the car in general, one thing I really didn't like was the transmission, not that it was bad, but that it didn't have more gears, because on a downhill it was constantly hung-up on one gear too high. Mazda cars are very technologically advanced but their 6-speed automatic transmission needs an update to an 8~10 speed automatic desperately. I wish I owned the current CX-5, because it has the turbo engine option, and memory seat, and power liftgate which last generation CX-5 didn't have. I've moved onto a 2020 Mercedes GLC300 4matic now, and while it's definitely an upgrade over the CX-5, I still kind of miss driving my old CX-5. If Mazda brings in an inline-6 engine into the mix for future models, I'll take a good hard look at it.
I read that Mazda had quality control issues with the transmissions made in China. So they brought the assembly back to Japan around 2018 for the CX5. [not sure on date] Sure enough I checked the nameplate on my 2020 and it said Made in Japan. One thing they really need to address is the skimpy spare tire. It's not a full size. Traveling 2k miles on a vacation and a flat on I-40 west one needs a real tire. I agree an inline 6 would be a blast. Rear Wheel Drive if they could fit it. But the greenies are ruining the car mfgs. options for designs.
First, I'm a Mazda owner and fan. Your review is detailed and in depth. However you posted a somewhat similar review on this exact trim last week. Did Mazda reach out to you? Your original review was far more critical of the size calling out the major issue of size. For a cuv and car review, don't want you being swayed by the industry powers and maintain your journalistic integrity. Keep up the keeping up.
I really wish Mazda , Honda or Toyota would go back and modernize the 2003-2005 Toyota Highlander. It had the perfect interior size for 4-5 adults. Front and rear seats were extremely comfortable. Excellent head , shoulders & foot room. Plus it had excellent rear cargo area behind the second row seats. Its was only like a 184-185 overall length. Mazda make it a hybrid and you could not make enough of them. Make reliable 3.0-3.5 v6 to round out the equation. Why isn’t anyone addressing this !??
My cousin has a 2003 Toyota Highlander she refuses to sell . She just had it repainted and never plans to sell it. Until someone someone ( Toyota, Honda , Mazda) can build a new modern version of what she currently owns. Nothing measures up to it.
Check out the "Moose Tests" on UA-cam to see how well the CX-5 and RAV4 handles. The Mazda CX-5 "Moose Test"... watch?v=H1FIPXeU7J0 Here's the Toyota RAV4 "Moose Test"... watch?v=VtQ24W_lamY
The seat comfort was not an issue for me, but it was only 6 mile test drive. The overall size is not an issue as I almost never have passengers in the back seat. I drove the turbo and the non turbo. IMO the turbo interior was quieter. Think Im going for the Carbon Turbo
I prefer a sportier bolstering. The earlier CX-5 is softer and I prefer this new feel. Like you said it's the BMW of the Japanese line. BMW is actually stiff for a sport-luxury car.
Blue looks cheap. Get snowflake white pearl like I did with parchment leather. Neutral colors on cars look better. I sell them too. Blue gets lower resale value on most blue cars if not all.
This Deep Crystal Blue Mica looks 😍🔥🥵🤩🙌🏽! But that interior with the Caturra Brown Nappa leather is still too dark. It almost looks black in certain lighting angles. They really should have just made it a slightly lighter saddle tan/ peanut butter kind of brown that looks more like the brown leather that recent Subarus, Nissans, Toyotas, & Chevys have been offering in their too trims of various vehicles along with the shade that luxury brands typically offer bc that shade looks the best lol
@@c7t1consulting87 thats good news. I had a 2014 Mazda 6 that was one of the best cars I ever owned. Other than brakes and a battery not a single repair in 120,000 miles.
Only problem with Mazda is the depreciation which is mainly due to the company selling so many as fleet vehicles to the car rental companies. Because of the buyback agreement manufacturers buyback older models from the car rental companies thereby allowing them to buy new models. Auto manufacturers then sell the older models to auto auction companies who flood the used car market which deprecates your resale value by thousands of dollars.
Omg I owned a 2007 CX-7 and had a blast with it! The color I chose was awful. By the car was great!! I wanted black but their black one was a demo with lots of miles for a new car, like 5500 miles and mustard on the back seats because the employee hauled his kids in back. So I opted for the fresh 7 mile unit that was some kind of copper / red color. It had the Bose center point surround audio system which I blasted with the sunroof open.
I wish you would have shown what the Nav looks like on that new screen size. Does it have a new more modern look like Android Auto has or is it the same old look with a bigger screen?
If it had more comfortable seats, a bigger sunroof, and better driver assistance it would be an amazing driver-focused grocery getter. As it stands though, too much money for too many compromises. Kind of a Mazda theme these days.
@@2004cyrus I find "you can't afford..." posts to be adorable. We tested every SUV under 60K. CX5 signature had the worst seats of all of them. Hard, short, and slippery. And no lane assist for 40k? Gimme a break. The new Tuscon wrecks it. Either way, we ended up in a Model Y which was the best by far.
@@frumpd63 Tesla’s are adorable. You live in LA? It’s clear you did no research. Tucson’s are slow unless you spring for the most expensive model. I don’t buy that you went from a Hyundai to a Tesla. Tesla is not green separate what you think. All the hundreds of thousands of gallons of water to manufacture lithium ion batteries is unreal and then the water gets dumped. This is well documented. It’s also documented that Tesla is shotty underneath with bad gaps and bad spot welds and missing bolts. I hope you like Recalls because that’s how Tesla operates. They shoot them out the door so Musk can impress folks and they have you return a lot so they can fix their mistakes and purposeful low standards. I could go on like you did. The Mazda company produces CX-5 in Japan and it’s reliable for 2 decades. You were taken to the cleaners due to your own ego; Or your spouses. Enjoy Lipstick on a pig. Nobody is impressed unless gay and under 30. The Mazda isn’t perfect I’ll give you that. But I have lane assist functions and guess what I’m 35 and don’t need all the safety crap that has caused ever- increasing vehicle prices. I haven’t had a car accident because I drifted out of my lane or otherwise. Again you really allowed yourself to be taken in by Elon Musk and his salespeople. I have some swamp land in Florida that i’d like to sell you! You’ll see all of this soon enough if you don’t trip over your ego. Happy Plugging-In!
@@frumpd63 lane assist.... Drive the dam car! Do you wander in your lane? A bigger sunroof? Here in so cal you'd bake!... Great till they leak ! So you bought a Tesla instead... 🤣 What a pile of crap! Hyundai? Until it catches on fire or their GDI engine fails.... You're lost without a clue!
If you're single or a couple with no kids CX-5's the way to go. If you've got kids or need to haul adults in the back seats, forget it. It's the Honda CR-V for you. If you're a big/tall/obese driver it's the CRV for you too. The CRV's front seats/driver room and space are cavernous.
It's unchanged from 2020. It's really just a lame keep annoyance system because they dumbed down the software to a level of uselessness for the North American market..... my opinion probably because their lawyers were too afraid the full "Lane Trace" feature available in the UK and Australian markets to be sold in the USA because of perceived liability exposure. I have the 2020 Touring Preferred edition and this is the biggest disappointment in an otherwise really nice car. I'm hoping someday there's an aftermarket software hack to enable the full capability of lane keeping/centering since all the necessary hardware exists in the car to make it good. As it stands now, all it really does is alert you that you've already drifted out of the lane..... AFTER the rumble strips in the pavement have long since shaken your tires, lol!
@@nadirnazim9342 I got such a good deal on the 2020 CX-5 that I bought it anyway despite the "pretends to have a lane keep assist" non-feature. It's the right size vehicle for what I need, it's very comfortable, has more than adequate power for what I desire, even with the 187hp normally aspirated engine, and so far it seems to get really good gas mileage. I'd originally wanted a Hyundai Santa Fe similarly equipped, which is a slightly larger vehicle with essentially the same horsepower engine, and does have a pretty decent usable lane keeping-centering function but could not make a deal with what seemed like a dealership network-wide problem of greedy, sleazy sales-dweebs who lied to me and pulled every dirty bait and switch trick on me when I tried to buy one, so I got fed up with their shenanigans and bought the Mazda instead. The overall construction and fit & finish of the Mazda is superior, but the techno-gadgetry of the Hyundai is more advanced. I'm nearly 60 years old, so even though the lane keep function of my Mazda is a big disappointment, the rest of the vehicle is substantial enough that it will likely last me the rest of my driving lifespan.
@@nadirnazim9342 we’ve all managed driving cars without all these nannies for years I can’t believe anyone complains that they want to drive a car that makes sure the driver pays attention
That isn’t correct. I’ve owned 6 Mazdas in the past 15 years and never had a problem. One of them was a Mazda6 (pre-2010) that I had for 8-1/2 years. Was still flawless the last day I had it as the first day. Take care of your vehicle and it will take care of you....
I just purchased a 2021 Mazda cx5 signature. Love the car but I think i am having a problem with the radio controls on the steering wheel. They don't work the way any other car i have had worked. The volume buttons are fine but the button that is supposed to advance you to your next favorites only works on Fm . Does not work on Sirius. The button on the bottom which usually takes you back to the last favorite only replays a song you are currently listening to. Mazda customer service is telling me that it should work the usual way. My dealer is telling me that Mazda told them something different. Has anyone had any experience with this?
I read on the Mazda forum that the advance buttons do not work with Sirius. I had a 2017 and just upgraded to the 2021 and was disappointed with this problem. The owners manual says it should work as well. That's just not true.
If you turn the the larger knob right it will take you to the next Sirius station, if you turn the knob to the left, it will take you to the previous channel. I have my favorite channels saved under the Favorites, which is a choice you can make by pressing down for 2 secs on the desired channel.
If it WERE perfect you would be an insufferable CX-5 owner, lording your perfect SUV over others. BUT.. my 2019 CX-5 GT Reserve (turbo, AWD) is DAMN NEAR perfect. MODS: K&N drop-in air filter, Cork Sport turbo down tube, CS oil catch can, and MANY exterior and interior trim pieces. And then there is the 100 octane gas I use to augment the 91 octane horse piss "premium" gas we have in Nevada. 1/3 tank of 100 octane gives me MUCH better acceleration.
Nice review! I would have to disqualify this suv. Way way to cramped. Nothing can be worse then getting shoe horned into a vehicle. Imagine a modern suv being to small for the average person? Pretty poor. No touch screen? Not good. I do really like the motor. Sounds cool, and pretty quick. Good honest review.
Never was a fan of the control knob. Having that big gorgeous screen goes to waste by not making it touchscreen. I just wish Mazda would let customer choose what they want instead of choosing for their customers on what's best for them.
Does anyone else get car sick in the back of the CX-5? The seats in front overshadow you, and there's very little visibility on the sides and out the back. People who get into my CX-5 don't feel comfortable or throw up from car sickness.
@@chief8079 yes that is a common complaint of cx5 . It's suppose to be a family vehicle but compared to others in its segment is way to small . This is why consumers will buy a forester or rav4 over it . And the trunk space is really small for its segment
Not ugly at all. You can see it. You ppl are something else. Where else is a manufacturer going to install a screen? Are you an auto engineer? Cadillac is domestic junk w crap resale
The screen is like my BMW and the knob to control takes a bit of getting used to, like in a BMW, but then it becomes just like muscle memory. I rather have the screen ON TOP of the dash rather than in the middle or below, for obvious safety driving as your eyes are not diverted from looking at the road.
I really wish Mazda , Honda or Toyota would go back and modernize the 2003-2005 Toyota Highlander. It had the perfect interior size for 4-5 adults. Front and rear seats were extremely comfortable. Excellent head , shoulders & foot room. Plus it had excellent rear cargo area behind the second row seats. Its was only like a 184-185 overall length. Mazda make it a hybrid and you could not make enough of them. Make reliable 3.0-3.5 v6 to round out the equation. Why isn’t anyone addressing this !??
It’s not that bad. I’ll simplify..... For 2020, 5 trims: Sport, Touring, Grand Touring, Grand Touring Reserve and Signature. The first 3 trims have 2.5L non-turbo. The Sport is no slouch with many standard features. The Grand Touring just has more toys. The Grand Touring Reserve and Signature come with AWD and Turbo and even more toys. For 2021, they added 2 Carbon Edition trims between Touring and Grand Touring. A lot of the Carbon Edition comes down to a special appearance package but one of the Carbon Edition trims comes with Turbo. So basically for 2021 you’re getting access to Turbo two trim levels lower than with 2020. Now if you can deal without Turbo (and you probably can) your best bet is the Touring with an add-on Preferred package. Thousands less than the highest trim and a very very nice and well equipped trim!
@@buchajo I just leased a grand touring with GT Premium package and love it, however seats hurt my butt after half an hour so I bought a $25 Gel cushion and it’s good.
The size was done on purpose. You cant have a bigger car without giving up the driving dynamics. So you need to choose. Either a few more inches of space or a great driving car. Id rather have the driving dynamics.
The turbo models do not have cylinder deactivation, only the base engine, but this isn't like start/stop where it wears the engine out a lot, it just turns off the cylinders for better gas mileage when you don't need them. Kind of like a hybrid car, where it turns the engine on when it needs it
@@BabyShark-cg3sz see I read that it didn’t. I’ll look it up. Some reviewers like Savage Geese said Mazda quietly ditched it too. You may be right. Either way. I leased mine for 3 years. I may buy it when lease is over tho.
Thanks for saying exactly what the silver trim is made of. I always wondered if it would tarnish. As long as it's not aluminum alloy it would be good. My mom has 2012 Toyota Corolla has hers has turned a dingy yellow I definitely can't live with that
How about all the blind spots in the rear C pillars? Thru the rear glass is very small. Does it come with a flashlight since the interior lighting is so limited and poorly placed? Nothing personal, but these reviews sounds more like a salesman reading from the factory brochure. Can you move the head up display? Add more choices to it beside what is there?
Thanks for the video.... Agree it is an attractive vehicle....but......it is SMALL and the gas MILEAGE is subpar. CRv And you have to get top of the line to get ALL the safety features. Rear blind spots makes it unsafe in some ways. Mazda is more to the bottom of the line when compared to others in this category.
To learn more about the 2021 CX-5 and to see where it ranks, check out: driversonly.medium.com/2021-mazda-cx-5-still-one-of-the-best-compact-suvs-fd6629f19435
You overlooked reliability. I drive a 2015 and want a new one. The problem is after 6 years my CX-5 drives like the day I bought it. 6 years of trouble free driving!
Mazda is number one in reliability of ALL vehicle brands for 2020 according to Consumer Reports....
This is awesome news to hear ! I just leased a 21’ Grand Touring and I’m already thinking i want to buy it after 3 years. I got the $1625 Premium Package that add 6 lovely features like ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, windshield wiper de-icer, heated, folding outside mirrors and other things. I got snowflake white pearl exterior w parchment leather.
That makes sense. I read that the best made CX5 model year is 2015.
Like most people, I’m not looking for maximum utility when considering a CUV. I’m looking for a blend with an emphasis on things that are important such as quality, handling, composure, safety, reliability and comfort. Maximum backseat space for grown adults and cargo is less important.
Otherwise, I’d be watching a video on Suburban or Tahoe.
This vehicle hits all the right notes on my priorities list. Well done, Mazda!
For a bigger space, you have CX-8 or CX-9, this is meant to be compact!
You mean a CX-7? We haven't had that in the U.S. in a long time. They need to bring it back as a midsize crossover between the CX-5 & CX-9 with rear seat & cargo space closer to the CX-9 but in a two-row crossover/ SUV
Yes it’s a compact. We don’t have a CX-8 in the United States.
Everyone always giving Mazda a hard.time.for the 6sp but you nailed it - it's always in the right gear and shifts well. Hard to drop that for 2more MPG on the highway.
Who else noticed the other CX5 beside him at 14:46?😂😂. Beautiful car!
Lol good catch!
@@DriversOnly I think it was even the same color! LOL!
14:45 I love how a CX5 just drove right by you hahaa
Just bought a 2020 Touring with the Preferred Package. Best combination of price and options. I think this will be my favorite car, ever. That's saying a lot, as I bought my first in 1977.
no panaromic sunroof is a deal breaker for me. Why the fuck is Mazda not getting with the program. I almost bought the Kuro edition but backed off due to that roof.
Why? Cause the majority of people don’t even use a sunroof. That’s a fact. Plus having a full pano is a detriment to the structural integrity of the roof in the event of accident. That’s also a fact
@@Mrtellitlikeitis Most people dont use the windows in their house, fact and windows reduce the structural integrity of the house and are a weak point in a house where criminals can enter your home, also facts. But hey everyone prefers having more windows in the house, only reason coz everyone likes the light it brings and also it opens up the space
@@Mrtellitlikeitis I use mine nearly every time I drive my Mazda, for the additional light if not airflow.
@@jos9569 Thats you. But studies have shown most dont because of distracting light and HEAT intrusion. And with the mazda shitty ac, its a no go
Leased a 2021 CX-5 Grand Touring FWD w/ $1625,00 premium package in Snowflake White Pearl, 10 days ago. I have 331 miles on her since I left this comment. MSRP is $33,755 incl. destination. My main complaints are that the seats aren’t great, my butt hurts after 20 minutes but they do look nice. Also Mazda doesn’t offer the Rubber Floor & Cargo mats for any price. My 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan did and I like that. There are no hydraulic hood struts unlike my Tiguan. I wish this trim incl. the 360° around view camera. I wish the wiper/turn stalk script was illuminated at dark. Maybe Mazda will offer a panoramic sunroof on the next generation. There are plenty of nice little touches around the cabin like a felt-lined glove box, however it’s not lockable. I’d like a frameless rear view mirror and a Qi wireless phone charger but higher trims probably offer that. I will probably put stickier tires on her soon. It would be nice to have remote start on the key fob but I do have the Mazda Connect app on my phone which offers lots of useful options. This vehicle is smooth. The heated steering wheel and heated rear seats and ventilated front seats are nice. The space for me is not an issue as I’m a single male. The parchment leather looks great but I have installed seat covers. I feel the breaks are much softer than my 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan. The power fold mirrors and auto door locking when I walk away is great! Gas mileage has matched or exceeded the EPA rating. The LED headlights and fog lights work great and the auto high beam is terrific. I’m still pretty happy with this Japanese manufactured crossover. There is a learning curve to the infotainment system but it works great and I don’t miss the touch screen at all, the commander knob works great! Lastly I wish Mazda would cover the dead pedal with quality plastic cover because it’s simply carpeted and is prone to get dirty and display wear & tear. As George says, the steering, handling, and quietness are all above average. I drove the competition and only the Hyundai Tucson would make the cut if I didn’t get Mazda but only with their more powerful engine option. I did come extremely close to buying a Toyota Venza and was at the table negotiating with a manager, but an elderly couple came in with a bank draft offering sticker price at 9am, 25 minutes after I arrived to make a deal. The seats in the Venza would be better for me but the styling is too soft for a young guy in my opinion. It wasn’t the car for me.
I own a CX5 2.0 L 2017 FWD. For me is perfect simply because is reliable and ZERO PROBLEMS en this 4 years 95k kms ownership
This is the most comprehensive and practical review for non-technical people like me. Thank you!
You're welcome!
excellent overview of the CX5, best I've seen thus far. I have spent time driving the 2021 CX5 GTR. I mostly agree with each point made here, both pros and cons. I would have to say I'd also like to see perhaps an inch wider wheel base. I agree the cabin space is also a point to consider. I'm a medium size guy with perhaps wider than average shoulders. I don't usually drive with a large person in passenger front seat, but when I do it does feel a bit tight on the width. The cabin overall is very comfortable, others have complained about the seats being too stiff, but I think they're ok, not too soft and cushiony. The back is definitely not for large people, not an issue for everyone. Engine? My advice, DEFINITELY spend the extra for the turbo 2.5. Coming from a V6 before the non-turbo feels like it's constantly trying to rev up to speed. As mentioned here- the 6 speed transmission in this works quite well, almost always finds the right gear . Tires that come stock could be better. Toyo A36 just ok. Non- touch screen is a non-issue for me also, wheel control works great , and probably safer.
Mazda could fix row 2 space, if they made the 2nd row slide back when not much in cargo area and vice versa, like the new ford escape. when you need more passenger space let the 2nd row slide back into cargo area, when you need more cargo area, slide the 2nd row forward or fold down completely.
Agreed. My 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan slides 6” and that’s very nice!
that's what my 2007 Toyota Rav4 did. It would be a welcome update.
Want an SUV but don't need room in the back seat or cargo capacity? The CX-5 is the vehicle for you. Unfortunately for Mazda it's those weaknesses that put a ceiling on CX-5 sales.
This is the most succinct and brief comment I’ve ever read from Stephen Hendricks! Wow! Lol I just leased one of these Friday.
To turn off the display, hold down the volume knob.
Do you have a CX-5?
@@k.lawrence894 yep, just got one about a month ago. Love it!
@@olivia717 oh wow thank you! I just got new one last Friday.
Looks good in blue
Mazda should bring back the cx 7 here in North America as an option midsize five seater alternative..
I owned a 2016 CX-5 for 4 years, while I liked the car in general, one thing I really didn't like was the transmission, not that it was bad, but that it didn't have more gears, because on a downhill it was constantly hung-up on one gear too high. Mazda cars are very technologically advanced but their 6-speed automatic transmission needs an update to an 8~10 speed automatic desperately.
I wish I owned the current CX-5, because it has the turbo engine option, and memory seat, and power liftgate which last generation CX-5 didn't have. I've moved onto a 2020 Mercedes GLC300 4matic now, and while it's definitely an upgrade over the CX-5, I still kind of miss driving my old CX-5. If Mazda brings in an inline-6 engine into the mix for future models, I'll take a good hard look at it.
I read that Mazda had quality control issues with the transmissions made in China. So they brought the assembly back to Japan around 2018 for the CX5.
[not sure on date]
Sure enough I checked the nameplate on my 2020 and it said Made in Japan.
One thing they really need to address is the skimpy spare tire. It's not a full size.
Traveling 2k miles on a vacation and a flat on I-40 west one needs a real tire.
I agree an inline 6 would be a blast. Rear Wheel Drive if they could fit it. But the
greenies are ruining the car mfgs. options for designs.
Fantastic they should add sweeping indicator lights to the front and the mirrors.... Especially the top of the range....
First, I'm a Mazda owner and fan. Your review is detailed and in depth. However you posted a somewhat similar review on this exact trim last week. Did Mazda reach out to you? Your original review was far more critical of the size calling out the major issue of size. For a cuv and car review, don't want you being swayed by the industry powers and maintain your journalistic integrity. Keep up the keeping up.
❤️❤️❤️ from india, you do have good content👍
I really wish Mazda , Honda or Toyota would go back and modernize the 2003-2005 Toyota Highlander. It had the perfect interior size for 4-5 adults. Front and rear seats were extremely comfortable. Excellent head , shoulders & foot room. Plus it had excellent rear cargo area behind the second row seats. Its was only like a 184-185 overall length. Mazda make it a hybrid and you could not make enough of them. Make reliable 3.0-3.5 v6 to round out the equation.
Why isn’t anyone addressing this !??
My cousin has a 2003 Toyota Highlander she refuses to sell . She just had it repainted and never plans to sell it. Until someone someone ( Toyota, Honda , Mazda) can build a new modern version of what she currently owns. Nothing measures up to it.
Wow this car looks really good in this color
Also 5'10 and I feel like there's plenty of room in the front and rear seats.
0:36 Butter
Really would have liked to see you take a few curves! The mazda does straight well but can it really turn a corner?
Yes it does I have the GS model and it handles corners very well
Check out the "Moose Tests" on UA-cam to see how well the CX-5 and RAV4 handles.
The Mazda CX-5 "Moose Test"... watch?v=H1FIPXeU7J0
Here's the Toyota RAV4 "Moose Test"... watch?v=VtQ24W_lamY
The seat comfort was not an issue for me, but it was only 6 mile test drive. The overall size is not an issue as I almost never have passengers in the back seat. I drove the turbo and the non turbo. IMO the turbo interior was quieter. Think Im going for the Carbon Turbo
How do you compare this to a volvo xc60 t6?
Great review!
I have my sport love it
I agree to all your opinions👍🏼
I prefer a sportier bolstering. The earlier CX-5 is softer and I prefer this new feel. Like you said it's the BMW of the Japanese line. BMW is actually stiff for a sport-luxury car.
Keep up the good work
Deciding on color. Just seen the carbon. Unless sun is out, it’s very dull. Blue might be the ticket
Blue looks cheap. Get snowflake white pearl like I did with parchment leather. Neutral colors on cars look better. I sell them too. Blue gets lower resale value on most blue cars if not all.
@@2004cyrus white is boring and to common...
I went with eternal blue , to not blend in with the crowd....
@@BabyShark-cg3sz I think you will enjoy it
Why whenever he said better I heard it as butter lol
Same lol
This Deep Crystal Blue Mica looks 😍🔥🥵🤩🙌🏽! But that interior with the Caturra Brown Nappa leather is still too dark. It almost looks black in certain lighting angles. They really should have just made it a slightly lighter saddle tan/ peanut butter kind of brown that looks more like the brown leather that recent Subarus, Nissans, Toyotas, & Chevys have been offering in their too trims of various vehicles along with the shade that luxury brands typically offer bc that shade looks the best lol
I was going to buy one of these until they started having problems with cylinder deactivation
I think that was already resolved by software update?
No longer has cylinder deactivation on any CX-5 models and many others for 2021.
@@c7t1consulting87 thats good news. I had a 2014 Mazda 6 that was one of the best cars I ever owned. Other than brakes and a battery not a single repair in 120,000 miles.
Only problem with Mazda is the depreciation which is mainly due to the company selling so many as fleet vehicles to the car rental companies. Because of the buyback agreement manufacturers buyback older models from the car rental companies thereby allowing them to buy new models. Auto manufacturers then sell the older models to auto auction companies who flood the used car market which deprecates your resale value by thousands of dollars.
Just lease or keep your Mazda. Non-issue
Bring back the CX-7
Omg I owned a 2007 CX-7 and had a blast with it! The color I chose was awful. By the car was great!! I wanted black but their black one was a demo with lots of miles for a new car, like 5500 miles and mustard on the back seats because the employee hauled his kids in back. So I opted for the fresh 7 mile unit that was some kind of copper / red color. It had the Bose center point surround audio system which I blasted with the sunroof open.
I owned a 2007 CX-7 and I miss it
I wish you would have shown what the Nav looks like on that new screen size. Does it have a new more modern look like Android Auto has or is it the same old look with a bigger screen?
Modern look.
No Apple CarPlay???? Yet 2023 CX 50 has it. Why has Mazda not updated the 2022 Cx 5 to wireless Apple CarPlay ???
If it had more comfortable seats, a bigger sunroof, and better driver assistance it would be an amazing driver-focused grocery getter. As it stands though, too much money for too many compromises. Kind of a Mazda theme these days.
Ouch. Name a better. Guessing you never owned a Mazda, a bigger sunroof? Really? You can’t afford to pay half of a CX-5 in cash so you rather bash it.
@@2004cyrus I find "you can't afford..." posts to be adorable. We tested every SUV under 60K. CX5 signature had the worst seats of all of them. Hard, short, and slippery. And no lane assist for 40k? Gimme a break. The new Tuscon wrecks it. Either way, we ended up in a Model Y which was the best by far.
@@frumpd63 Tesla’s are adorable. You live in LA? It’s clear you did no research. Tucson’s are slow unless you spring for the most expensive model. I don’t buy that you went from a Hyundai to a Tesla. Tesla is not green separate what you think. All the hundreds of thousands of gallons of water to manufacture lithium ion batteries is unreal and then the water gets dumped. This is well documented. It’s also documented that Tesla is shotty underneath with bad gaps and bad spot welds and missing bolts. I hope you like Recalls because that’s how Tesla operates. They shoot them out the door so Musk can impress folks and they have you return a lot so they can fix their mistakes and purposeful low standards. I could go on like you did. The Mazda company produces CX-5 in Japan and it’s reliable for 2 decades. You were taken to the cleaners due to your own ego; Or your spouses. Enjoy Lipstick on a pig. Nobody is impressed unless gay and under 30. The Mazda isn’t perfect I’ll give you that. But I have lane assist functions and guess what I’m 35 and don’t need all the safety crap that has caused ever- increasing vehicle prices. I haven’t had a car accident because I drifted out of my lane or otherwise. Again you really allowed yourself to be taken in by Elon Musk and his salespeople. I have some swamp land in Florida that i’d like to sell you! You’ll see all of this soon enough if you don’t trip over your ego. Happy Plugging-In!
@@frumpd63 lane assist....
Drive the dam car!
Do you wander in your lane?
A bigger sunroof?
Here in so cal you'd bake!...
Great till they leak !
So you bought a Tesla instead...
🤣
What a pile of crap!
Hyundai?
Until it catches on fire or their GDI engine fails....
You're lost without a clue!
Drive an x3. How does it compare?
The exterior is anything but "round and bubbly" - LOL
Agreed it’s sculpted and elegant
We are all George.
Do the exterior side mirrors fold?
Mine do automatically on my new grand touring
If you're single or a couple with no kids CX-5's the way to go. If you've got kids or need to haul adults in the back seats, forget it. It's the Honda CR-V for you. If you're a big/tall/obese driver it's the CRV for you too. The CRV's front seats/driver room and space are cavernous.
They maybe larger but they dont drive as nice as the CX5. Consumer reports most reliable brand for 2021 baby!
Looks butter
How is the lane keep assist system? The 2020 one was very bad.
It's unchanged from 2020. It's really just a lame keep annoyance system because they dumbed down the software to a level of uselessness for the North American market..... my opinion probably because their lawyers were too afraid the full "Lane Trace" feature available in the UK and Australian markets to be sold in the USA because of perceived liability exposure. I have the 2020 Touring Preferred edition and this is the biggest disappointment in an otherwise really nice car. I'm hoping someday there's an aftermarket software hack to enable the full capability of lane keeping/centering since all the necessary hardware exists in the car to make it good. As it stands now, all it really does is alert you that you've already drifted out of the lane..... AFTER the rumble strips in the pavement have long since shaken your tires, lol!
@@rubyneal8100 thats too bad. Cant be buying a car in 2021 without meaningful driver assist features.
@@nadirnazim9342 I got such a good deal on the 2020 CX-5 that I bought it anyway despite the "pretends to have a lane keep assist" non-feature. It's the right size vehicle for what I need, it's very comfortable, has more than adequate power for what I desire, even with the 187hp normally aspirated engine, and so far it seems to get really good gas mileage. I'd originally wanted a Hyundai Santa Fe similarly equipped, which is a slightly larger vehicle with essentially the same horsepower engine, and does have a pretty decent usable lane keeping-centering function but could not make a deal with what seemed like a dealership network-wide problem of greedy, sleazy sales-dweebs who lied to me and pulled every dirty bait and switch trick on me when I tried to buy one, so I got fed up with their shenanigans and bought the Mazda instead. The overall construction and fit & finish of the Mazda is superior, but the techno-gadgetry of the Hyundai is more advanced. I'm nearly 60 years old, so even though the lane keep function of my Mazda is a big disappointment, the rest of the vehicle is substantial enough that it will likely last me the rest of my driving lifespan.
@@nadirnazim9342 we’ve all managed driving cars without all these nannies for years I can’t believe anyone complains that they want to drive a car that makes sure the driver pays attention
It's better to look good than to feel good........
3:06 Napa leather, what the hell is that? Something to do with grapes?
Yes haha
What about rust issues? I heard Mazda suffers from rust issues. Can anyone comment?
That isn’t correct. I’ve owned 6 Mazdas in the past 15 years and never had a problem. One of them was a Mazda6 (pre-2010) that I had for 8-1/2 years. Was still flawless the last day I had it as the first day. Take care of your vehicle and it will take care of you....
That’s all very old complaints. The galvanized steel panels are non corrosive
I just purchased a 2021 Mazda cx5 signature. Love the car but I think i am having a problem with the radio controls on the steering wheel. They don't work the way any other car i have had worked. The volume buttons are fine but the button that is supposed to advance you to your next favorites only works on Fm . Does not work on Sirius. The button on the bottom which usually takes you back to the last favorite only replays a song you are currently listening to. Mazda customer service is telling me that it should work the usual way. My dealer is telling me that Mazda told them something different. Has anyone had any experience with this?
I read on the Mazda forum that the advance buttons do not work with Sirius. I had a 2017 and just upgraded to the 2021 and was disappointed with this problem. The owners manual says it should work as well. That's just not true.
I have. It’s a little irritating
If you turn the the larger knob right it will take you to the next Sirius station, if you turn the knob to the left, it will take you to the previous channel. I have my favorite channels saved under the Favorites, which is a choice you can make by pressing down for 2 secs on the desired channel.
We need more rear space
Get a CX-9
Lol I don't
Marzda CX-5
If it WERE perfect you would be an insufferable CX-5 owner, lording your perfect SUV over others.
BUT.. my 2019 CX-5 GT Reserve (turbo, AWD) is DAMN NEAR perfect.
MODS: K&N drop-in air filter, Cork Sport turbo down tube, CS oil catch can, and MANY exterior and interior trim pieces.
And then there is the 100 octane gas I use to augment the 91 octane horse piss "premium" gas we have in Nevada. 1/3 tank of 100 octane gives me MUCH better acceleration.
Nice review! I would have to disqualify this suv. Way way to cramped. Nothing can be worse then getting shoe horned into a vehicle. Imagine a modern suv being to small for the average person? Pretty poor. No touch screen? Not good. I do really like the motor. Sounds cool, and pretty quick. Good honest review.
lol
Blah blah blah. Silly complaints. Yea don’t need a damn touch screen. Use the knob Kim. It’s more efficient. Other complaints are non-starters.
Never was a fan of the control knob. Having that big gorgeous screen goes to waste by not making it touchscreen. I just wish Mazda would let customer choose what they want instead of choosing for their customers on what's best for them.
My government sucks, I make enough money to buy the base sport 🥲
2:21 wide hips, tho 😃
Does anyone else get car sick in the back of the CX-5? The seats in front overshadow you, and there's very little visibility on the sides and out the back. People who get into my CX-5 don't feel comfortable or throw up from car sickness.
No problems here
It’s bs Mazda doesn’t offer new infotainment in Canada 👎👎
Mazda needs to redesign the cx5 .
It's almost perfect.
It came in 2017 and this update is good enough
They need to make it bigger. It doesn't have to be the size of a CR-V or Rogue, but at least the size of an Equinox for starters.
@@chief8079 yes that is a common complaint of cx5 . It's suppose to be a family vehicle but compared to others in its segment is way to small . This is why consumers will buy a forester or rav4 over it . And the trunk space is really small for its segment
@@scaldon2 to make matters worse, the CX9 has less cargo space than the CR-V despite being 18” longer.
And the screen is still on top of the dash and ugly as hell, just like the car. And for the price just under a Cadillac. C’mon man.
Not ugly at all. You can see it. You ppl are something else. Where else is a manufacturer going to install a screen? Are you an auto engineer? Cadillac is domestic junk w crap resale
The screen is like my BMW and the knob to control takes a bit of getting used to, like in a BMW, but then it becomes just like muscle memory. I rather have the screen ON TOP of the dash rather than in the middle or below, for obvious safety driving as your eyes are not diverted from looking at the road.
Your lifestyle is not perfect eather
CX5 badly need redesigning since 2017...
Your comment needs a redesign lol
@@Kev_inn_ OK Mr. Old skool...
Lol wrong. You probably cannot afford one. Go buy a Mitsubishi
Worst front seats and driving position in its class.
i have to think that the stop start feature is not healthy for engines. the constant starting is something that makes me cringe.
George... what do you think RAV4 eXL PREMIUM TO CX5 Touring?
I love my CX-5
Just bought one last week…Nothing came close “and” we got it just under sticker, everyone else was 5-10,000 over…
I really wish Mazda , Honda or Toyota would go back and modernize the 2003-2005 Toyota Highlander. It had the perfect interior size for 4-5 adults. Front and rear seats were extremely comfortable. Excellent head , shoulders & foot room. Plus it had excellent rear cargo area behind the second row seats. Its was only like a 184-185 overall length. Mazda make it a hybrid and you could not make enough of them. Make reliable 3.0-3.5 v6 to round out the equation.
Why isn’t anyone addressing this !??
Hate touch screens. Glad Mazda isn't using them
hows driving in the snow with the c x 5? been looking at either the cx 30 or the cx 5
Way too confusing so many trims,really nice cars and suv’s good video is always 👍🏼
Maybe one too many, but take a look at some of the dodge chrysler jeep products.
It’s not that bad. I’ll simplify.....
For 2020, 5 trims:
Sport, Touring, Grand Touring, Grand Touring Reserve and Signature.
The first 3 trims have 2.5L non-turbo. The Sport is no slouch with many standard features. The Grand Touring just has more toys. The Grand Touring Reserve and Signature come with AWD and Turbo and even more toys.
For 2021, they added 2 Carbon Edition trims between Touring and Grand Touring. A lot of the Carbon Edition comes down to a special appearance package but one of the Carbon Edition trims comes with Turbo. So basically for 2021 you’re getting access to Turbo two trim levels lower than with 2020.
Now if you can deal without Turbo (and you probably can) your best bet is the Touring with an add-on Preferred package. Thousands less than the highest trim and a very very nice and well equipped trim!
@@buchajo tank you
@@buchajo I just leased a grand touring with GT Premium package and love it, however seats hurt my butt after half an hour so I bought a $25 Gel cushion and it’s good.
I found my way here from your crypto channel. I have one of these (2.2 diesel) nice and reliable. 👍
Rav4 or CX5 or CR-V? Which one to choose? Thanks!
Either RAV4 OR CX5. No CR-V(oil dilution is still a problem)
Rav4 and the cx5
Other than the civic, accord and the acura line i am pretty much done with honda
@@robinw8470 agreed
@@robinw8470 i'm a crv owner and i agree
Cr-v
did they fix the armrest ? it should slide forward if needed.
It would have been nice, but I doubt it.
No it’s the same I just purchased a 2021 touring with preferred package arm rest doesn’t slide
No sliding on the new CX-5
Are the headrests on rear seats (easily) removable to allow seats to fold flat without having to keep front seats too far forward?
I have a cx 5 and I’m 6 2 and I can fold the sits without removing the headrest
@@aidangraham4727 Thanks! I think other folks might have the same question. I would probably leave the rear seats folded down permanently.
Yeah, they can be easily removed
@@aidangraham4727 hi I’m very interested in purchasing a CX-5, Beautiful car, which year & model did you purchase??
Yes easy
The size was done on purpose. You cant have a bigger car without giving up the driving dynamics. So you need to choose. Either a few more inches of space or a great driving car. Id rather have the driving dynamics.
Absolutely! Get a CX-9 if you need room and can trade off dynamics
You mixed navigation and home button
Mazda please get rid of that hood prop rod 😞.
Lol George is that you??
SOLANA!
Does this have the cylinder deactivation?
yes. it was added on 2020 editions
The turbo models do not have cylinder deactivation, only the base engine, but this isn't like start/stop where it wears the engine out a lot, it just turns off the cylinders for better gas mileage when you don't need them. Kind of like a hybrid car, where it turns the engine on when it needs it
Got rid of that for 21’
@@2004cyrus the non turbo 2.5 has deactivation....
@@BabyShark-cg3sz see I read that it didn’t. I’ll look it up. Some reviewers like Savage Geese said Mazda quietly ditched it too. You may be right. Either way. I leased mine for 3 years. I may buy it when lease is over tho.
Thanks for saying exactly what the silver trim is made of. I always wondered if it would tarnish. As long as it's not aluminum alloy it would be good. My mom has 2012 Toyota Corolla has hers has turned a dingy yellow I definitely can't live with that
it s perfect to me
How about all the blind spots in the rear C pillars? Thru the rear glass is very small. Does it come with a flashlight since the interior lighting is so limited and poorly placed? Nothing personal, but these reviews sounds more like a salesman reading from the factory brochure. Can you move the head up display? Add more choices to it beside what is there?
Blah blah blah. What a troll. You can’t afford a CX-5.
Thanks for the video....
Agree it is an attractive vehicle....but......it is SMALL and the gas MILEAGE is subpar. CRv
And you have to get top of the line to get ALL the safety features.
Rear blind spots makes it unsafe in some ways.
Mazda is more to the bottom of the line when compared to others in this category.
The Honda also has a CVT and no one wants that..
@@mikeossola6397 dudeee, look at the sales:(