Mazda CX-5 2025 The Surprising Truth Behind the Hype

Mazda CX-5 2025 Overview

The Mazda CX-5 crossover has been on the market since 2017, a considerable time in the automotive world. Despite facing newer compact crossover competitors, the CX-5 remains a standout, both in terms of style and driving enjoyment. While Mazda introduced the slightly larger and more expensive CX-50 in 2023, the CX-5 lineup hasn't been reduced to accommodate its new sibling.  It still offers eight trim levels, two four-cylinder engine options—one being a lively turbocharged version—and the choice of front- or all-wheel drive. Inside, the CX-5 features a high-quality cabin, and its driving dynamics are particularly engaging. While rivals like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 might offer more practicality, we believe the CX-5 provides ample space for most buyers. Combined with its fun-to-drive nature, it remains a top choice for those who prioritize driving pleasure in a compact crossover. 

DESIGN

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 was crafted for the driver. Its interior and exterior designs seek to inspire an elevated driving experience that can invigorate both body and mind. Drawing inspiration from our Kodo design philosophy, the sleek exterior styling of the Mazda CX-5 stands out.

CONNECT TO THE ROAD

Experience refined performance with i-Activ AWD, standard across all 2025 CX-5 models. 

ELEGANT DETAILS

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 is outfitted with an eye-catching front grille design and available 19” alloy wheels that make the perfect complement to the silver accents and eye-catching exterior details of the Mazda CX-5.

What's New for 2025?

The S trim returns as a more budget-friendly entry-level model, while the non-turbo Premium trim has been dropped. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless phone charging are now standard features on the Carbon Edition, and the Premium Plus trim gains a surround-view camera and parking sensors. Additionally, all CX-5 models now have USB-C ports for the front seats.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Pricing for the 2025 Mazda CX-5 starts at $29,990 and can reach up to $42,020, depending on trim and options. We recommend the Turbo Premium trim as the best all-around choice, thanks to its 256-hp turbocharged engine, which enhances its already nimble handling. The exterior features stylish gloss-black accents, while the interior gains a more exciting look with red trim and stitching.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The Mazda CX-5 features a powerful available turbo engine that’s engineered to invigorate each drive and add responsiveness to already effortless handling. Our standard i-Activ AWD directs torque to the wheels with the most grip and optimizes performance in nearly any weather condition. The base CX-5 engine, a 187-hp four-cylinder, provides quick throttle response in city driving, making it feel faster than it is. However, at highway speeds, such as during passing maneuvers or merging, it could use more power. The 256-hp turbocharged engine, on the other hand, delivers significantly better acceleration. Both engines are paired with a responsive six-speed automatic transmission and come with all-wheel drive. You don’t need to push the CX-5 hard to enjoy it, as its sharp steering and composed handling make for a delightful drive. It also absorbs bumps in the road gracefully and offers a ride quality typically found in more expensive crossovers. This seamless balance of ride and handling is unmatched by its rivals. Road imperfections are barely noticeable, cabin noise is minimal, and the suspension is neither too firm nor too soft. On winding roads, the CX-5 comes alive, with its electric power steering providing excellent feedback. The Signature trim we tested offered confident braking without being overly sensitive.

0-60 MPH Times

In Car and Driver's tests, the base-engine CX-5 reached 60 mph in 8.1 seconds. While not particularly fast, it’s on par with the Honda CR-V and slightly quicker than the Toyota RAV4 by 0.2 seconds. For those who prioritize performance, the turbocharged engine reached 60 mph in a swift 6.2 seconds.

Towing and Payload Capacity

The CX-5 can tow up to 2,000 pounds, which is modest but still better than some rivals like the Volkswagen Tiguan and Honda CR-V. For more towing capability, the larger CX-50 can haul up to 3,500 pounds when equipped with the turbo engine. Without the turbo, it shares the same 2,000-pound towing capacity as the CX-5.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

With two engine options, the CX-5 has two different fuel economy ratings. The base 2.5-liter engine is rated for 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. The more powerful turbocharged version achieves 22 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. In real-world highway testing at 75 mph, the standard engine delivered 32 mpg, while the turbocharged engine managed 30 mpg.

Interior and Cargo

The interior of the Mazda CX-5 surrounds you with sophistication. Its available genuine layered wood trim and Caturra Brown Nappa leather-trimmed seats are engineered with your comfort in mind. Step inside the upper-tier CX-5 trims, and you might feel like you're in an Audi or Mercedes. The premium materials and thoughtful design create a truly upscale atmosphere. The floor-hinged accelerator pedal offers a more natural feel than the typical suspended variety, the steering wheel is perfectly positioned, and the front-seat armrests are all at the same height for added comfort. The downside is that rear-seat space is just adequate for adults, and it only accommodated nine carry-on bags behind the rear seats during our testing. However, the cargo area does benefit from a completely flat load floor, and there are plenty of small storage compartments throughout the cabin, including a deep tray in the center console and a useful bin with a removable shelf. 

NAVIGATE INTUITIVELY

Every technology feature included in the Mazda CX-5 connects you to your drive and the world around you.
We’ve made it easy to control the display and navigation of your apps and information with conveniently located dials and knobs that work safely and harmoniously with the center display.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Every CX-5 model comes with a 10.3-inch infotainment screen, primarily controlled via a rotary dial and volume knob on the center console. The system also supports voice commands and steering wheel controls. 
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on all trims, and Mazda Connected Services allow remote access to vehicle functions via a smartphone app. 
Enjoy the convenience of your smartphone while on the road with Mazda Connect.
And subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspots are also available.
View maps, playlists, contacts, and more, clearly on the large 10.3-inch screen center display.

Mazda Connected Services

Locate your vehicle, start the engine, and lock and unlock the doors—all remotely. With the MyMazda App 24 and Mazda Connected Services, complimentary for one year on your mobile device, you can do all this and more.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

5-Star Overall Safety Rating for the 2025 Mazda CX-5.
With the i-Activsense suite of safety features, sophisticated safety innovations alert you to hazards to help you avoid collisions or lessen their impact. The CX-5 comes equipped with a full suite of standard driver-assistance features, with additional options available. 
Key safety features include:
Standard automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. 
Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist. 
Standard adaptive cruise control.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

While Kia and Hyundai provide more extensive warranties, Mazda’s coverage is still competitive. However, Mazda does not include any complimentary scheduled maintenance.
The limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
The powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
No complimentary scheduled maintenance.