2019 Mazda CX-5: A Few Things To Know
The Mazda CX-5 for sale is a compact SUV and the Japanese automaker’s best-selling vehicle. As Mazda continues a push toward more premium and even luxury offerings, let’s take a look at what makes the CX-5 what it is today.
The CX-5 fits in the middle of Mazda’s current SUV lineup, above the subcompact CX-3 and below the three-row CX-9. Power comes from a choice of three engines, starting with the standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, good for 187 horsepower. A new, optional (standard on Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trims) turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder makes 250 hp and recommends 93-octane gas; it can also run on regular 87-octane gas but only makes 227 hp. Finally, another new engine, a 168-hp, turbo-diesel 2.2-liter, is more fuel-efficient than the CX-5’s gasoline-powered alternatives, but it’s only available on the highest Signature trim.
Here’s a few things you need to know about the 2019 Mazda CX-5:
The used Mazda CX-5 is an affordable compact SUV that does an excellent job pretending to be a luxury-branded one. Thanks to its sleek design and fun-loving driving dynamics, the CX-5 pulls off this difficult balancing act better than most of its rivals. That’s saying something when the competition includes the likes of the Honda CR-V, Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4 and Volkswagen Tiguan.
What helps the CX-5 separate itself from the competition? For starters, the handling of this Mazda validates that this SUV comes from the same automaker that gifted the world the MX-5 Miata roadster. The handling is informative, and the CX-5 is truly fun-to-drive in all conditions. And besides, try loading four of your best friends and a weekend’s worth of their luggage into a Miata!
Granted, the CX-5 trails a few key competitors when it comes to class-leading cargo room and rear legroom. And while we’re fans of the optional turbocharged four-cylinder as well as the new Grand Touring Reserve and loaded-to-the-gills Signature trim levels, adding more power and goodies nudges the price of the CX-5 upward.
For SUV shoppers just looking for the highlights, we’ve compiled this quick rundown of the things we like about the 2019 Mazda CX-5.
1. Two New Luxury Trim Levels
For the 2019 model year, Mazda has added the Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trim levels to the top of the CX-5 range. Both models come standard with all-wheel drive and a new turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The Signature is the one to choose for anyone who hates deciding between options. That’s because it comes loaded with every conceivable convenience and safety feature you could add onto the CX-5, including heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, Nappa leather, a 360-degree camera system, 19-inch alloy wheels and a Bose audio system. From behind the wheel, Cars.com reviewer Fred Meier said the CX-5 in Signature trim comes “oh so close” to feeling like a premium SUV.- Turbo Power
3. Superb Steering
So, you need the convenience and space of an SUV but hate the idea of giving up driving enjoyment in the process? Well, lucky you, because the Mazda CX-5 has an agile chassis and possibly the best handling you’re going to find in an affordable SUV. Meier said the Mazda’s “steering has smile-inducing precision and feel.” Try applying that standard to most other family-oriented SUVs.4. Elegant Cabin
The Mazda CX-5 isn’t just graced with great handling; it also has an interior that feels several notches above its direct competitors. This is especially true in the posh Signature trim level, which was fitted with real wood accents, satin trim finishes and high-quality leather, as well as piano-black surfaces on the dash. Thankfully, even the base CX-5 has a cabin that looks and feels like it belongs in a pricier product.5. Distinctive Exterior Design
Styling is subjective, though it’s hard to deny the Mazda CX-5 stands out in a crowd. The exterior is elegant and doesn’t go overboard with details. A distinctive front end and shapely sides give the CX-5 real presence on the road.6. Rear Passengers Aren’t Left Out
Sometimes the best cars and SUVs coddle those sitting in the front row but then drop the ball when it comes to rear-seat accommodations. That’s not the case with the Mazda CX-5: Quality trim, padded armrests and soft-touch surfaces extend to the rear seats. Headroom back there is abundant, while legroom is fine for the class — though not as generous as what you’ll find in the Honda CR-V or Nissan Rogue.7. Sharp Alloy Wheels
The Mazda CX-5 has some sharp wheels, particularly when you opt for the wheel-arch-filling 19-inch numbers on higher trim levels. Our test vehicle was fitted with smoke-finished alloys that are specific to the CX-5 Signature model; in comparison, the standard CX-5’s 17-inch rims look a little puny.8. Thumbs Up for the Head-Up
The Mazda CX-5 has a sharp and informative head-up display unit that’s full of useful information. This is one of those features many people don’t know they want until they have it. Thanks to its brightness and clear graphics, the HUD system on the CX-5 is a great addition.9. Smooth Six-Speed
Many a fine engine has been ruined by a recalcitrant transmission. We’re happy to report the six-speed automatic fitted to the CX-5 is smooth and quick-witted when changing gears. Meier noted that this gearbox is better behaved than the continuously variable transmissions found in the Honda CR-V and Nissan Rogue. But he also wondered whether an eight-speed automatic — such as the type used in the VW Tiguan — would make a good thing even better.10. Safety Features
The Mazda CX-5 scored a Top Safety Pick Plus rating — the highest possible score — in safety tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The base CX-5 Sport comes with rear-cross traffic alert, blind-spot monitors and a low-speed front collision system. Moving one trim beyond the base CX-5 gets you additional standard safety items like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist and automatic high beams.The CX-5 not only earned good scores in all of the agency’s crash tests, and also met the headlight and front crash prevention qualifications. Its automatic braking system earned a superior rating and its headlights a good rating. This is the sixth consecutive year the CX-5 has earned IIHS’ top crash rating.
Two other model-year 2019 Mazda vehicles earned Top Safety Pick status: the CX-3 subcompact SUV and CX-9 mid-size SUV, both when equipped with optional front crash prevention and specific headlights.
Each year, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety makes it tougher for a vehicle to earn its awards, compelling automakers to raise the bar on safety equipment and the crashworthiness of their vehicles. This year, the agency is moving from a focus on the people inside the vehicle to those outside. For 2019, IIHS set its sights on pedestrian detection systems.
Whether you’re looking for the 2019 or older Mazda CX-5 models - Group 1 Cars is a great place to start as you’ll only be getting certified pre-owned Mazda’s to choose from.
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