Over the past few years, Mazda has matured and is attempting to ascend the market. The brand has disposed of its popular slogan, "Zoom Zoom", in an attempt to establish itself as a premium car manufacturer, on par with brands like Audi and Acura. In 2021, Mazda is determined to re-establish their brand and become recognized as the premium car manufacturer.
In order for Mazda to successfully move up market, they need to produce vehicles, which look and feel high-end. In today's automotive landscape the most competitive segment is the compact crossover/SUV category. This segment is filled with practical, reliable yet boring models like the Toyota RAV4 and the Honda CRV. The Mazda CX-5 entering the market offers an equally practical option as its rivals but with a far superior driving experience.
Inside and out, the CX-5 has an edge on its competition. The Honda CRV’s front fascia bulges like a bulldog's jaw, while the exterior of the CX-5 is elegant and refined. The fascia has a very smooth look. The headlights, along with the daytime running lights and turn signals, are all grouped in the same housing. Beneath the headlights is a chrome trim detail, which connects both headlights under the grill. Our test model was the new for 2021 Kuro Edition, which features an exclusive polymetal grey paint, 19" black alloy wheels along with a backed out grill and mirrors.
The cabin of the CX-5 is truly where this car shines. The dash and door panels have a superb combination of soft touch materials and stitched leather surfaces. New to the 2021 model is an upgraded infotainment system that features a larger, higher resolution 10.25” inch screen, perched on top of the dash. All 2021 models come standard with Apple Carplay and Android Auto. Most of the controls are very easy to use and logically laid out. The HVAC/ climate controls, like most of the car, are also clearly laid out and very easy to use. We do not love the knob, which controls the infotainment system and would prefer that Mazda add a touch screen or a better set of physical buttons for a greater user experience.
The seats feel premium in the Kuro edition. Offered in either red or black leather (w/ red accent stitching). The driver's seat comes with 10-way power adjustments, two memory settings and power lumbar support. In the past we have tested some lower trim levels of the CX-5 that did not have the full leather interior and have always enjoyed the seat material. The GS trim includes leatherette-trimmed upholstery with suede inserts which both stand out for their combination of style and comfort. The steering wheel is a fantastic 3-point design and the Kuro edition features red stitching as well. Our only contention with the interior is the piano black trim of the lower console and gear shift. It attracts an unnecessary level of dirt and dust, which can quickly lead to appearing worn out.
On the road the CX-5 continues to impress. The steering feel is light and nimble but far from numb. Power from the Skyactiv-G 2.5 L DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine is 187 hp & 186 lb-ft torque, which should be enough power for most commuters. The engine is yet another area where Mazda remains unique within its segment. Most competitors do not offer powertrain options, but for drivers who require more than 187 hp, Mazda offers a turbocharged version that can run on either premium or regular fuel. With premium fuel, the power gets bumped to 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque, while regular fuel will produce 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque.
We have to commend Mazda for their use of a 6-speed automatic transmission. Many of the CX-5’s competitors have decided to use a CVT transmission for marginal weight and fuel savings. Mazda’s transmission gives the CX-5 a more sporty and predictable feel under hard acceleration compared with its primary competition.
Just to the left of the gear shifter is a switch for the Sports drive mode. It is difficult to recognize any significant difference in performance when in the Sports drive mode. To be completely frank, we find, if anything, it takes away from the refinement of the drive. It feels like the car is revving at a higher RPM and making more noise, rather than creating any significant change in functionality.
The 2021 CX-5 is loaded with safety tech, all models come standard with blind spot monitoring, radar cruise control with lane keep assist, forward obstruction warnings and pedestrian detection. We tested the cruise control on the highway and we were able to remove our hands from the wheel while driving without the car shifting in its lane. It is practically unheard of for a car manufactures to offer this level of safety technology in the base model. Mazda should again be commended for having these features come standard.
If we have one complaint about the safety tech in the CX-5, it is the backup camera. Our beef with the camera is that the trajectory lines on the screen do not move with the steering wheel.
It is difficult to not be impressed with the Mazda CX-5. The compact SUV category is filled with practical vehicles that lack excitement. In our opinion, Mazda has done the best job of any automaker to build a practical car that looks great and outperforms competitors. The interior truly stands out among its class. The safety technology in the base model presents an amazing value, regardless of what the daily drivers priorities may be. If you are in the market for a compact SUV, we highly recommend test driving the CX-5 before making any decision.
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