2025 Mazda CX-5 Expert Review: Drive, Performance & Specs Tested

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 is quite an interesting case when it comes to car longevity. It’s still holding its own in the competitive compact SUV market, even though it’s working off a second-generation platform that first came onto the scene in 2017. What’s impressive here is how the CX-5 has stayed relevant through strategic updates instead of going for a full redesign. That’s a nod to Mazda’s solid engineering from the get-go.

In today’s marketplace, the CX-5 is up against some tough competition. We’ve got rivals like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Kia Sportage, all of which have been recently revamped. The Honda CR-V stands out with its better cargo space and a layout that’s great for families. On the other hand, the RAV4 is pushing some solid hybrid options. And let’s not forget the Kia Sportage, which has stepped up its game with competitive pricing and some cool tech features.

Don’t overlook the Hyundai Tucson, either—it’s a strong contender, mainly because it offers a variety of powertrains, including hybrids and plug-in hybrids. Then there’s the Volkswagen Tiguan, which brings that European flair and even has an optional third row. But it’s still not quite on par with the CX-5 when it comes to that premium feel. The Ford Escape and Chevrolet Equinox also join the fray, yet neither matches what the CX-5 brings to the table in terms of that upscale vibe and driving experience.

So, what makes the CX-5 stand out in this crowded market? Well, it’s positioned as a near-luxury vehicle without the luxury price tag. While other brands are all about maximizing practicality—like cargo space and gas mileage—Mazda has found its niche by focusing on that engaging driving experience and high-quality materials. This resonates with buyers who might be eyeing entry-level luxury options like the BMW X1, Audi Q3, or Lexus NX, but want something that feels like a better deal.

One of the big changes for 2025 is the return of the base S trim level. This is a smart move by Mazda to make those premium features more accessible for folks keeping an eye on their budget. It shows they really get what the market needs—value without losing the upscale vibe.

It’s worth noting that the compact SUV segment has changed a lot since the CX-5 first hit the market, especially with the growing emphasis on electrification and digital features. Sure, the CX-5 might not lead the pack in those areas, but it still nails the basics that make a vehicle great: solid build quality, engaging driving dynamics, and that premium feel that goes beyond its price.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5’s powertrain lineup highlights Mazda’s dedication to making the driving experience engaging. You’ve got two engine options that cater to different tastes. First up, there’s the standard engine—a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder. It cranks out 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. Honestly, this base engine does a decent job for everyday driving, hitting 0-60 mph in about 8.0 seconds, which is fine for most folks.

If you’re looking for a bit more excitement, the turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder is where it’s at. When you fuel it with premium gas, it jumps to an impressive 256 horsepower and a hefty 320 pound-feet of torque. That torque? It’s a game-changer! It gives you that strong low-end acceleration, making the CX-5 feel more robust compared to a lot of its rivals when you’re out on the road.

Both engines come with a six-speed automatic transmission. Sure, we know—six speeds might seem a bit old-school, especially with competitors flaunting eight or more. But here’s the thing: Mazda’s tuning makes it clear that having more gears doesn’t always mean better performance. This six-speed shifts smoothly and helps maintain that direct, connected driving feel that Mazda aims for.

One cool feature of the CX-5 is that all trims come with all-wheel drive as standard. This is great for handling different weather conditions and helps the car put that power down effectively, especially with the turbo engine. The all-wheel-drive system is advanced for its class, actually predicting where to send power to keep things stable before any wheel slippage happens.

Speaking of the turbo engine, it delivers power in such a way that it feels almost premium. That torque at low RPM? Super handy for quick passes or merging onto busy highways. It honestly makes the CX-5 feel a lot more upscale than you’d expect at its price point.

About fuel economy—this is where things get a bit tricky. The base engine manages around 28 mpg combined, while the turbocharged one offers about 24 mpg. These numbers are okay for the class, but they’re not exactly on par with hybrid options, which is something that stands out more and more in today’s market.

The transmission has a sport mode that changes up the shift patterns and throttle response. But, you know, the regular mode is already pretty solid for most driving needs. There’s also a manual shift mode, but honestly, it feels more like a little extra than something you’d use all the time. The automatic is usually spot on for those moments when you want to drive a bit more spiritedly.

You know, the brake pedal feels just right—it’s got this smooth, linear action that lets you control it precisely, whether you’re cruising around town or hitting the brakes in an emergency. Unlike many other cars that feel like they either stop or go with a jolt, the CX-5 offers a much more refined response.

Up front, you’ve got ventilated disc rotors, and at the back, they stick with solid discs. It’s a setup you see in a lot of vehicles in this category, but Mazda has done a great job tuning it. They’ve included single-piston floating calipers, which manage to deliver enough stopping power without getting too heavy or costly. The result? You get reliable stopping that doesn’t waver, even if you’re putting the brakes to the test.

What’s nice is the brake pedal’s initial bite; it’s more gradual than harsh. This makes it super easy to come to smooth stops during your daily drives. You really notice this in stop-and-go traffic, where the brakes respond predictably, which is great for keeping everyone comfortable. The way the system is tuned allows for some serious finesse when you need to stop, leading to what folks like to call “limo stops.”

Another thing worth mentioning is how well the braking system works with the active safety features. Take automatic emergency braking, for example—it can adjust the brakes with a level of precision that many other cars can’t match, leading to smoother stops when necessary. And the adaptive cruise control? It handles speed changes so smoothly that it feels almost as good as when you’re manually braking.

The brake-by-wire system in the CX-5 is something to note too. It manages to keep that natural feel, which is a big deal since some other brands can come off feeling kinda fake or disconnected. This is a real win for Mazda, as it enhances the overall driving engagement that they’re all about.

Lastly, there’s the auto-hold feature which comes standard on the higher trim levels. It works like a charm, especially in city driving. It kicks in seamlessly and let you go promptly when you hit the gas, making it a genuinely handy feature—definitely not just a checkbox they ticked off.

The steering system in this SUV is really something else. It gives great feedback and precision, which is honestly rare for compact SUVs. They’ve put a lot of thought into how the steering feels—it’s designed to be light enough for easy parking but still gives you that solid, progressive feel when you’re cornering. You can sense the confidence it builds, especially when you take those turns a bit faster.

The suspension—that’s where things get interesting. Up front, you’ve got a MacPherson strut setup, and in the rear, there’s a multi-link arrangement. Sounds fancy, right? But it actually does a fantastic job of keeping things controlled when you’re taking corners, while also making sure you’re comfortable on bumpy roads. The damping rates are well thought out, aiming to strike a balance between sharp handling and a comfy ride. Just keep in mind, it’s on the firmer side compared to some rivals.

Mazda nails it with the suspension tuning, too. You can tell they’ve paid attention to how the CX-5 handles all kinds of road bumps. If you hit a pothole or a rough patch, the suspension absorbs it nicely, so you’re not jostled around inside. And it does this while still giving you the body control you need for spirited driving.

Speaking of control, the roll management is impressive. It keeps the SUV feeling stable when you’re pushing it a bit harder, all without using overly stiff springs or dampers—which is no small feat given the CX-5’s taller SUV build. The way the suspension is set up helps keep the tires glued to the road and gives the driver a clear sense of how the vehicle is responding.

The steering’s variable assistance is particularly well-calibrated, providing additional assist at parking speeds while maintaining good weight and feedback at higher speeds. The system’s directness and precision contribute significantly to the CX-5’s sporty character, making it feel more like a premium European vehicle than a mainstream compact SUV.

One of the standout things about the steering and suspension combo is how they manage to keep the handling fun without sacrificing ride comfort too much. Sure, it’s a bit firmer compared to, say, a Honda CR-V or a Toyota RAV4, but it’s still comfy enough for everyday driving. Plus, you get that superior control and precision that makes a difference.

The chassis tuning is equally impressive. It handles different road surfaces with such grace, and you barely notice the suspension working away to keep everything stable. When you hit the highway, the CX-5 feels solid and requires minimal steering adjustments, which is great for those longer trips—it really helps reduce that fatigue.

Finally, can’t forget to mention how well the steering and suspension systems work with the standard all-wheel-drive setup. This integration is crucial, especially for confident handling in all kinds of weather. The way the system predicts and distributes torque is impressive. It helps keep the steering precise and the suspension effective, even when conditions get a bit tricky.

About the 2025 Mazda CX-5 and its tire options, which are well thought out, honestly. The base model rolls on 17-inch alloy wheels, but most of the other trims, including the snazzy signature model, come with 19-inch wheels. You know, that bigger wheel size gives the car a nice look and helps with handling too, but it doesn’t mess up the ride quality too much.

If you’re looking at the higher trims, they typically come with tires sized at 225/55R19. This size strikes a good balance between grip, comfort, and fuel efficiency – which is always a plus, right? A lot of these models are fitted with Yokohama Geolandar G91 tires. They do a solid job in all seasons and show that Mazda really pays attention to the details when it comes to tire selection. Plus, the tires have a decent sidewall profile, which is nice because it keeps the ride comfy, even with those bigger wheels.

The tire compound and tread pattern? Well, they’ve been chosen specifically to match the handling of the CX-5. Thanks to its all-season design, you can count on a reliable grip no matter the weather. It works well with the all-wheel-drive system, making it even better for those unexpected weather changes. And those tread patterns? They’re designed to keep road noise down while still handling water well when it rains.

Here’s something interesting: the tire setup adds to the overall feel of the vehicle. The mix of tire size, compound, and sidewall design does a great job of managing road bumps, all while working alongside the suspension to keep everything comfy and precise. The stiffness in the sidewalls is just right for the suspension tuning, which means responsive handling without feeling like you’re bouncing around too much.

The tire fitment also demonstrates good load-carrying capacity, supporting the CX-5’s utility as a family vehicle while maintaining performance characteristics. The chosen specifications provide adequate load margins for typical use, including fully loaded family trips or cargo hauling within the vehicle’s capabilities.

As for tire wear, owners have been happy, reporting decent tread life as long as they keep up with maintenance. The alignment specs and suspension setup help ensure that the tires wear evenly, which is a big win for long-term performance and saving some cash on replacements. So, yeah, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 has got its tire game on point!

The cabin nails that sophisticated, minimalist vibe—it’s impressive, especially when you compare it to some luxury brands that cost a whole lot more. The dashboard has this nice horizontal layout that highlights how wide the cabin feels, which is kind of surprising given the compact size of the exterior.

When it comes to material quality, that’s definitely a standout feature, particularly in the higher trim levels like the Signature model. There are a lot of soft-touch materials where you usually put your hands, showing that they paid close attention to detail—way more than what you’d expect in this class. You’ve got a leather-wrapped dashboard with double stitching, and in the Signature trim, they use genuine wood accents that give off a real luxury feel, unlike some competitors who just go for plastic knock-offs.

The center console is designed with a human-centric approach, making it super intuitive. All the controls are placed where you’d naturally reach for them. The layout has some practical storage solutions, but it still looks clean and tidy—no clutter here! You’ll notice the felt-lined storage compartments, too, which is a nice touch you don’t often see, even in pricier vehicles.

The seats? They get some serious attention as well. As you move up the trim levels, the material quality ramps up. The base model features durable cloth upholstery that’s comfy enough, but if you go for the higher trims, you can choose leatherette or even genuine leather. The Signature trim takes it up a notch with Nappa leather that has unique stitching—definitely gives off that near-luxury vibe.

As for the instrument cluster, it’s a neat mix of traditional analog gauges paired with a digital display, blending classic and modern styles. The graphics are crisp and easy to read, and there’s subtle lighting that boosts both function and looks. Plus, the head-up display fits right into the design, giving you essential info without messing up the clean lines of the interior.

The infotainment display is 10.25 inches and sits high on the dashboard, which helps keep your eyes on the road. Some folks might say it looks a bit like a tablet, but honestly, the way it’s positioned and integrated shows a thoughtful design approach that balances looks and usability. The screen itself has a sharp resolution and an anti-glare finish, adding to that premium feel.

Interior lighting deserves special mention, with thoughtfully positioned ambient lighting in higher trims creating a sophisticated atmosphere during nighttime driving. The illumination levels and color temperature have been carefully chosen to enhance visibility without causing distraction.

Even the smaller details, like the chrome accents around the air vents and control knobs, add some nice flair without being over the top. And practical things like door pockets and cup holders are done to a high standard, using tough materials that hold up well against scratches and wear. 

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 showcases Mazda’s Kodo design philosophy, and honestly, it’s a great example of how thoughtful styling can truly last over the years. Even though this model first came onto the scene in 2017, it still looks quite fresh and modern, which is impressive. This just goes to show how Mazda prioritizes clean, timeless design over chasing fleeting trends.

Up front, you’ve got that signature grille that Mazda is known for. If you opt for the higher trims like the Signature, you’ll find some sleek chrome details and a textured silver finish that really stands out. The way the grille blends with the LED headlights gives the whole front an appealing vibe, guiding the eye across the vehicle’s face. And speaking of those headlights, they’re standard on all models and come with unique daytime running lights, which not only light the way but also add some personality to the look.

Moving along to the side profile, you can see that a lot of thought went into the proportions. There’s this dynamic character line that starts from the front fenders and goes all the way through to the rear quarters, connecting everything beautifully. Plus, most trims have body-colored wheel arch surrounds, which give it a more upscale vibe compared to the usual plastic cladding you find in similar vehicles. The greenhouse design? Well, it’s great for visibility and adds to that sporty stance.

Now, let’s talk about paint. It’s worth highlighting, especially in those premium shades like Machine Gray. Mazda uses a special multi-layer paint process, the kind they originally came up with for concept cars. The result? A depth and shine that’s honestly impressive. Depending on the light, those metallic and mica paints can shift colors, which adds to the feeling of luxury.

Moving to the back, the design keeps that clean, sophisticated look going with updated LED taillights. These lights not only create a unique signature at night but also fit nicely with the overall design during the day. And if you’re looking at the turbocharged models, you’ll find dual exhaust outlets that are cleverly integrated into the rear fascia—just a subtle nod to the performance side of things.

When it comes to size, the CX-5 measures 179.1 inches, making it one of the more compact options in its class. This compactness makes it easier to navigate city streets without feeling too small next to bigger rides. Those relatively short front and rear overhangs help with both the looks and practical stuff like approach and departure angles. Overall, it’s a well-thought-out design that balances style with usability.

The 2025 CX-5 shows how Mazda gets what people want—balancing those high-end expectations with what’s actually practical. When you hop into the driver’s seat, you’ll notice that everything is right where you need it. The controls are easy to reach, and you can see all around without straining.

Front seats—pretty comfy right off the bat, but there’s always room for a bit of tweaking. Most trim levels come with a 10-way power adjustment for the driver. And if you go for the Premium Plus or higher, you get both heated and ventilated seats. People are really loving the ventilation system; it’s a standout compared to what other brands offer.

When it comes to climate control, Mazda keeps it simple, which is nice. The dual-zone automatic system has physical controls that you can fiddle with without taking your eyes off the road. Plus, the vents are well-placed, and it responds quickly when you need to adjust the temperature. Oh, and for those in colder areas, the heated rear seats in higher trims are a nice touch.

Acoustic comfort? They’ve put a lot of thought into minimizing noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH). If you opt for the higher trim levels, you’ll find acoustic glass and extra sound insulation that help keep the cabin quiet, especially when you’re cruising on the highway. Wind noise is kept in check, but you might notice some road noise, especially on rougher surfaces.

Storage options in the cabin are clever, too. The center console has a flexible storage area with a removable tray, and the door pockets are just the right size for larger water bottles. Plus, there’s a new wireless charging pad for 2025 available on more trims, which keeps your devices secure while they juice up.

If you’re a fan of fresh air, the power moonroof comes standard on many trims. It has one-touch operation and a manual sunshade. Sure, it’s not the panoramic style you might find with some rivals, but it works smoothly and quietly—hardly any wind noise when it’s open. The power liftgate is standard on the preferred trim and up, and it works well, though it doesn’t have that hands-free feature some others do.

One of the coolest convenience features is the advanced keyless entry system. You can unlock the doors easily, even when you’re juggling packages. It’s smart, too—depending on which handle you touch first, it unlocks that door. And those auto-folding mirrors? They fold in smoothly when you lock or unlock the car, offering both convenience and a bit of protection.

Memory seating functions, available on higher trim levels, can store positions for multiple drivers, including mirror positions and, where equipped, head-up display settings. The system’s operation is straightforward, with easy-to-use buttons located on the seat base rather than the door panel, a slightly unconventional but ergonomically sound placement.

The 10.25-inch infotainment screen is the heart of the vehicle’s advanced features. It combines both touch and physical controls, which is cool since it caters to what different users might prefer.

Now, about that infotainment system – it has this dual-input thing going on, which is quite a unique take on how we interact with tech. Sure, the touchscreen only works for certain functions and only when you’re cruising below 5 mph. But then there’s the rotary controller, which lets you access everything anytime. At first glance, this might seem like a limitation, but it actually encourages safer driving since you’re more likely to use the tactile controller when you’re on the move.

When it comes to wireless integration, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are well thought out. The wireless charging pad is conveniently placed for easy phone access, which makes for a seamless experience. And you know what? The wireless connection holds up nicely in real-world situations. For those who like the old-school way, the wired option is still there for charging and using your phone simultaneously.

The Bose premium audio system, available on higher trim levels, offers impressive sound quality with 10 speakers strategically placed throughout the cabin. The system’s tuning takes advantage of the CX-5’s quiet interior to deliver clear, well-balanced audio reproduction across various music genres. The inclusion of a dedicated subwoofer in the cargo area contributes to robust bass response without compromising cargo space.

Moving on to the head-up display, if you grab the Premium Plus package or above, you’ll get essential info right in your line of sight. The graphics are sharp and easy to see, no matter the lighting outside, and you can adjust the height to fit your driving position. Plus, you can customize what you see, like speed, navigation directions, and safety system status.

The digital instrument cluster display – it might not be as customizable as some fully digital setups from competitors, but it still delivers clear and relevant information without all the bells and whistles that can complicate things. It combines analog gauges with a central digital display, which hits that sweet spot between being traditional and modern.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 takes safety seriously—combining an impressive array of standard features with some advanced optional tech. It puts together a safety package that keeps it on the list of top safety picks. You see, the standard i-Activsense safety suite shows that Mazda is all about making these advanced features available, no matter which trim you pick.

The CX-5’s excellent safety reputation is largely due to its structural design. It features Mazda’s SkyActiv-Body architecture, which incorporates high-strength steel in key areas of the chassis. This design creates a robust safety cage while also minimizing weight. As a result, the CX-5 not only prioritizes safety but also delivers an enjoyable driving experience, thanks to its intelligent design.

When it comes to active safety systems, the CX-5 shines. You know how some cars can be a bit jumpy with their interventions? Not here. The automatic emergency braking system is well-tuned. It knows when to step in with warnings or brake help, but it doesn’t go overboard—no false alarms to shake your confidence.

The lane-keeping assistance and lane departure warning systems are refined too. Instead of sudden jerks, the lane-keeping system nudges you gently to help you stay in your lane. Plus, you can choose how you want to be alerted with the lane departure warning—either through sounds or gentle vibrations in the steering wheel. It’s all about what works best for you.

The adaptive cruise control—it’s smooth sailing. It keeps a safe distance and adjusts nicely to the ebb and flow of traffic, which is reassuring. If you opt for the higher trims, there’s even a traffic jam assist feature that helps you navigate through those slow-moving traffic situations without breaking a sweat.

Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is standard across the board, which is a cool touch, especially for the base trim. The sensors are impressive—they can detect vehicles from quite a distance and will give you clear warnings, both visually and audibly, when needed.

Now, if you go for the Premium Plus trim or higher, there’s a nifty 360-degree camera system. This boosts your safety when maneuvering at low speeds. You get clear, high-res images with different viewing options—like a split-screen that shows overhead and front/rear views. Plus, with front and rear parking sensors, you’re covered on both ends.

Nighttime driving is made a lot easier with the standard LED headlights, which safety testing organizations have given a thumbs up to. If you step up to the higher trims, you’ll find adaptive front lighting that lights up corners and automatic high beam control that quickly adjusts based on oncoming traffic, giving you the best visibility possible.

You know, when it comes to driving, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 raises the bar in the compact SUV world. It’s got this level of engagement and refinement that honestly gives those luxury brands a run for their money. Right from the get-go, the design of the vehicle focuses on connecting with the driver—without giving up on the comfort and practicality we all need day-to-day.

If you step up to the higher trim levels, you’re greeted by a turbocharged engine that just makes the whole driving experience so much more enjoyable. we mean, we’re talking about 320 lb-ft of torque when using premium fuel, and that power kicks in from low revs. So, you get this smooth, effortless acceleration in real situations, which is always a plus. And let’s not forget about the engine sound—it’s been tuned just right, giving you that sporty vibe when you step on it, yet still keeping things refined when you’re cruising along.

On the highway, the CX-5 shines. It’s super stable and composed, even when you’re going fast. The steering feels just right, the chassis is solid, and the suspension is so well-tuned that you can’t help but feel confident behind the wheel. You’ll find that the car tracks straight, needing very little steering correction, which is a real lifesaver on those long drives.

When you hit the city streets, the CX-5 is surprisingly nimble for an SUV. Its compact size and responsive controls make it easy to maneuver. The steering assistance adjusts nicely—providing just enough help when parking, but still giving you good feedback as you pick up speed. Plus, with a turning radius of about 36 feet, navigating through tight parking lots or busy streets becomes a breeze.

The all-wheel-drive system’s operation deserves special mention for its seamless integration with the vehicle’s handling characteristics. The system predictively transfers torque between axles based on various sensors, helping maintain stability before wheel slip occurs. This proactive approach contributes to the CX-5’s composed handling in various weather conditions.

Then there’s the sport mode, which you can easily toggle using the MI-Drive switch. It changes up the car’s character quite a bit—adjusting throttle response, shift patterns, and steering feel. Unlike some other brands where sport modes can feel kinda gimmicky, the CX-5’s setup feels natural and makes the drive more engaging when you want it to be.

Speaking of driving, the six-speed automatic transmission is a highlight for sure. While many competitors have switched to continuously variable transmissions or more gears, Mazda has stuck with this six-speed setup. It gives you a more direct and predictable response to your inputs. You can really tell it anticipates what you need—holding gears when you’re driving spiritedly and then shifting to higher gears when you’re just cruising for efficiency.

As for ride quality, it is a tad firmer than some competitors, but it strikes a good balance between control and comfort. The suspension handles most bumps and imperfections without feeling floaty or out of control, which is crucial, especially on rough roads. That firmer setup pays off in terms of handling precision, without venturing into uncomfortable territory. So yeah, the CX-5 does a lot right?

So, if you take a look at the rear seating area in the 2025 CX-5, you’ll see how Mazda has put a lot of thought into keeping passengers comfy, all while dealing with the compact size of the vehicle. The rear bench can technically fit three people, but honestly, like a lot of cars in this category, it’s way more comfortable with just two adults in the back.

Rear seat comfort begins with well-shaped cushions that provide good thigh support and a backrest angle that strikes a good balance between comfort and space efficiency. The seat bottom height has been carefully considered, providing good thigh support while maintaining adequate headroom. The raised seating position also aids visibility for rear passengers.

Legroom measures approximately 39 inches, which while not class-leading, proves adequate for average-sized adults behind average-height front occupants. The front seatback design includes sculpted areas that help maximize knee room, while the raised positioning of the rear seat cushion allows passengers to slide their feet under the front seats, effectively increasing perceived legroom.

The center armrest folds down to reveal two cupholders and houses two USB ports for device charging. The armrest’s height and width are well-considered for comfort during longer journeys. Higher trim levels include heated outboard rear seats, a relatively rare feature in this class that adds considerable comfort in cold weather.

The cargo area of the CX-5 isn’t exactly the biggest out there when it comes to sheer volume, but it’s got a smart design that makes the most out of the space available. If you’re looking at the higher trim levels, you get a standard power liftgate that opens up to reveal about 30.8 cubic feet of cargo space right behind the rear seats. And if you fold those seats down, you’re looking at something close to 60 cubic feet—handy, right?

Getting into the cargo area is well thought out. There’s a nice wide opening, and the lift-over height isn’t too high, which makes it a breeze to load and unload your stuff. You can operate the power liftgate in a few different ways: with the key fob, a button inside, or an external handle. Just a heads up, though—there’s no hands-free option like some of its rivals have.

This cargo area comes with several tie-down points to secure your loads, plus some side storage compartments for those smaller items that might roll around otherwise. And the rear seats? They feature a 40/20/40 split-folding design, which offers more flexibility than the usual 60/40 setup. This is super useful if you need to haul longer items while still having room for rear passengers.

When you fold those rear seats down, the load floor is almost flat, but there is a tiny incline. You can lift the floor panel to uncover even more storage underneath, which includes a temporary spare tire and a spot to tuck away the cargo cover when it’s not in use. The materials in the cargo area keep that upscale vibe you find in the rest of the vehicle.

If you opt for higher trim levels, the Bose audio system has a subwoofer that’s cleverly tucked into the side wall of the cargo area. This not only saves space but also boosts your audio experience. The cargo cover functions smoothly too and can be easily removed and stored under the floor when you don’t need it.

One particularly thoughtful feature is the inclusion of a small storage compartment behind the rear wheel well, perfect for storing emergency supplies or other items that need to be secured separately from the main cargo area. The carpet lining throughout the cargo area is of high quality and appears durable enough to withstand regular use.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 is trying to carve out its space in the crowded market of compact SUVs. You’ve got to think about where it stands compared to both the usual suspects and those fancy luxury brands. So, with the base S trim making a comeback, starting at around $29,000, it looks like a solid entry into that premium compact SUV realm.

Mazda seems to have put a lot of thought into the different trim levels. Even the base S trim, which is more budget-friendly, doesn’t skimp on important features like all-wheel drive, LED headlights, and a full suite of safety tech. That’s a big deal because some of its rivals only throw those features into higher-priced trims or make them optional. If you look at the other trims—Select at about $31,000, Preferred for $33,000, Premium at $35,000, then Premium Plus at $37,000, Turbo for $39,000, and Turbo Signature at $42,000—you can see that each bump up brings some nice upgrades that make spending the extra cash feel worth it.

Now, if we talk about the Premium Plus trim, it stands out in the lineup. It packs in features that you’d usually find in the pricier trims, like a 360-degree camera and ventilated seats, which really boost its value. At this price point, you’re getting a lot of premium stuff without hitting that luxury price tag, which is refreshing.

When you consider long-term ownership, the CX-5 has some strengths worth noting. Reliability stats show it’s on par or maybe even a bit better than the industry average, which is great for keeping maintenance costs in check. Plus, it’s projected to hold onto about 59.4% of its value after five years—impressive, right? That puts it up there with the best when you think about ownership costs.

The fuel economy? That gets a bit tricky. There’s no hybrid option here, which might make it less appealing for those who are watching their fuel expenses. And if you go for the turbo engine, you’ll need to use premium fuel to get the best performance, which can add up.

Also, let’s talk about that standard all-wheel drive. It’s a nice touch that all trims come with it. Sure, it might bump the base price a bit compared to front-wheel-drive rivals, but it saves you from having to pay extra for that feature, and it can help maintain resale value in many markets.

Finally, the CX-5’s near-luxury vibe gives it an interesting edge when you’re shopping around against both mainstream and luxury options. It might seem pricier compared to the base models from more mainstream brands, but when you look at the quality of materials, the way it drives, and all the features you get, it often stacks up quite well against those luxury competitors that are $5,000 to $10,000 more expensive. So, yeah, it’s definitely worth a look!