2016 Mazda CX-5: Hard to Beat
The Mazda CX-5 has the honour of being the first model to fully incorporate the brand’s next-generation design language (dubbed KODO – Soul of Motion) and make full use of all aspects of SKYACTIV technology when it was introduced for the 2013 model year.
SKYACTIV refers to Mazda’s new more fuel-efficient engines, combined with lighter chassis and bodies for all around better fuel efficiency. It’s quite clever of Mazda to name their design language and technological improvements in order to set them apart, though to be fair, we see this type of marketing more and more across the industry.
The CX-5 was also born out of a necessity to create a better matchup against the competition in the compact crossover segment. Mazda had the slightly larger CX-7 in the lineup, which was too small to be considered a midsized crossover and too large to go toe-to-toe with compacts like the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 (not to mention subpar fuel economy in some trims). So the CX-7 was tossed and in came the CX-5.
After three years of steadily increasing sales, Mazda has made some notable improvements to the CX-5 for 2016. The front receives a facelift in the form of a new and improved grille and the rear with slightly different taillights. The front suspension has been re-turned to improve performance, the interior has been insulated more and an electronic handbrake (sorry wintertime parking lot drifters) has been added.
The most important aspects of the 2016 improvements actually come on the inside of the vehicle. The dated climate controls have been replaced with more modern-looking buttons. Gone is the red digital display and in place we find the new, easier-to-see white readout.
The infotainment system now comprises a seven-inch touchscreen on all but the bare-bones GX trim without the convenience package. This system is one of the easiest to use across the industry because you have the option of controlling it via the touchscreen or by way of a dial (called the HMI Commander switch) and buttons in a perfect location on the centre console.
Three trim levels
The base-trim CX-5 is called the GX and comes in a front-wheel-drive configuration with a 155-horsepower, 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine. What’s interesting is that there is even a manual transmission option that you don’t always see in crossovers these days. However, the manual option isn’t available if you choose AWD.
Air conditioning, keyless entry, power windows, push-button start and cruise control are all standard, though as I mentioned before, you’ll need the convenience package for the HMI Commander interface and touchscreen. You also receive steering-wheel Bluetooth controls, the seven-inch display, HD radio and 17” wheels. For $1,900, I highly recommend it.
Next up is the GS, which features the larger 2.5-litre engine making 184 horsepower, and also many more features than the GX. These features include a power moonroof, a rearview camera, heated front seats, blind spot monitoring, rain-sensing wipers, fog lights, remote rear-seatback fold-down and an anti-theft system. You can save $2,000 by getting the GS in front-wheel drive configuration, too.
Finally, we have the GT trim which is all-wheel-drive only and adds even more features such as leather, 19” wheels, a Bose audio system, dual-zone climate control, navigation, LED headlights and fog lights as well as an auto-dimming review mirror. The GT also opens unlocks the Technology package containing lots of safety systems like smart braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, forward obstruction warning and intelligent high beams.
Fun to Drive
Mazda has always prided itself on making vehicles which are fun to drive, and the CX-5 is no exception. It’s attractive on the outside and comfortable on the inside. A comfortable driving position is easy to find and day-to-day driving is enjoyable as ever, thanks to the CX-5's nimble handing and peppy performance from the 2.5-litre engine. Without the larger motor or newer infotainment system, it’s likely the experience would be quite different so if you can, shell out the few extra bucks so you can enjoy the car to the fullest.
Mazda will continue to be extremely competitive in the compact crossover realm with the CX-5, especially given the notable improvements for 2016. With a great driving experience, many standard features and a design which is sure to stay fresh for a while, the CX-5 is a must-drive for anyone looking to buy in the segment.
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- Compare the 2016 Mazda CX-5 to its competitors
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| Test drive report | |
| Test model | 2016 Mazda CX-5 |
|---|---|
| Trim level | GT AWD |
| Price range | $22,995 – $34,895 |
| Price as tested | 34 895 $ |
| Warranty (basic) | 3 years/unlimited |
| Warranty (powertrain) | 5 years/unlimited |
| Fuel economy (city/highway/observed) | 9,8 / 7,9 / N/A L/100km |
| Options | N/A |
| Competitive models | Chevrolet Equinox, Ford Escape, GMC Terrain, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, Jeep Cherokee, Kia Sportage, Mitsubishi Outlander, Nissan Rogue, Subaru Outback, Toyota RAV4, Volkswagen Tiguan |
| Strong points |
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| Weak points |
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| Editor's rating | |
| Fuel economy | Small motors have their upsides |
| Comfort | Interior comfort and quality is best in class |
| Performance | Could use more power |
| Infotainment | Mazda's system is one of the best |
| Driving | Very fun to drive |
| Overall | Has set the bar high for the competition |