2017 / 2018 Mazda CX-5 Review and Road Test in 4K UHD!
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- Опубликовано: 8 сен 2024
- The CX-5 has long been a favorite at AoA for it's fun to drive nature but for 2017 Mazda turns the heat up. The already good looking crossover wears new sheetmetal that's more attractive than before and virtually every part of the compact CUV gets a tweak. The body is stiffer, the suspension is softer, the interior sets a new benchmark for the segment and the back seat easily rivals the CR-V and RAV4 in size and comfort. But what impresses most about the Mazda is the overall balance between it's fun-to-drive reputation, practicality, value, luxury and comfort. The CX-5 isn't the fastest or even the best handling baby SUV in America, but thanks to its aggressive pricing, high levels of standard equipment and the gorgeous styling it ties for top place on the AoA charts.
0-30 : 3.1 Seconds
0-60 : 8.1 Seconds
1/4 Mile : 16.2 Sec @ 85 MPH
60-0 Braking : 125 Feet
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I love my CX-5 Alex. I've driven a RAV4, and have test drove the Nissan Rogue, Honda CRV, and Subaru Forester and although they're all comparable in many ways; however, after test driving the CX-5, I believe I made the right choice.
I test drove one last night and was blown away with the quality of the car especially the interior. Drove great too will be getting one when my X1 lease expires.
rushdi34 They say the interior on the Mazda is one dB quieter than the BMW X.3!
CX-5 is hands down the most beautiful compact non-premium crossover.
It's premium for me! The engineering, design, quality are on par with the premium brands. Besides, you get reliability as an added bonus!
HOW DO YOU ONLY HAVE 163K SUBSCRIBERS? YOU ARE SO MUCH BETTER THAN CHANNELS WITH 2X-3X THE SUBSCRIBERS! Keep up the good work Alex, I've been watching you for a while now!
He really is the best, and I apperciate in-depth review he does.
DougieFresh9 I don't get it either. Among the ones I have seen, Alex is arguably the hardest-working car reviewer on RUclips. Only John Cadogan in Australia works as hard as he does. But John's mission is a bit different.
Agree, best car reviewer out there.
Bill John Cadogan's mission is nocturnal e.
Best car channel is John Cadogan's. Australia. And I'm not even from there to take his side...
Wow, the quality of this video blew me away! I am no way a car enthusiast, know little about new cars. I am trying to decide which car to buy, I liked the Mazda CX-5, saw this video, now I know more than I could've learned in a week! Great video Alex, thanks so much!
I bought the 2017 GT CX 5 about a month ago and I love it. I am very, very picky about cars. I test drove all of the other SUV's in this class and this was by far the most luxurious, quiet, best handling of all. Previously I owned a CRV and loved it too. In fact it was going to be the car I was going to buy until I drove this car. Btw this is my first Mazda.
LOVEEEEE my freaking 2016 CX5. Sporty rims, cream leather interior, navy exterior. Nimble. Fun to drive. Smooth and no problem with blasting by folks on the road. Love my car. Got it after my Miata (first love) was totaled. So yes, I did it for safety. Still satisfies my need for a sport ride.
Love our new 2017 CX-5 GT with Tech package in Soul Red Crystal. Quiet, sporty, stylish, and luxurious. The interior is very quiet at speed and the fit and finish is superb, almost luxury level like. Very comfortable leather seats and all the materials are first rate with good tactile controls. Passing power is good and acceleration is responsive for this class. Car handles well in the curves and is quite fun to drive with some body lean...great steering feel.
Bose Stereo at first listen is a little underwhelming but I'll need to tweak and break it in more. The infotainment system takes a little getting used to but I'm liking the commander dial since the touchscreen is disabled when in motion. The heads up display projected on the windshield is really neat and the navigation system is pretty easy to use.
Blindspot monitoring is a little hyper sensitive since it warns about cars further back than your true blindspot but it works well. The full speed radar assisted cruise control is pretty awesome. It followed a car in front of me from 100km to a stop at on its own. Pretty unnerving to try for the first time! The lane keep assist is very subtle and non intrusive like on Honda's. Already did a home depot run and it easily swallowed up a patio storage chest with the back seats folded down. Having a power lift gate on the trunk is such a handy feature when hands are full of groceries.
I'm loving this Soul Red Crystal color. It turns from a bright lava/candy apple red in sunlight to a dark ruby in the shade. The styling of this car is the best in the class compared to Rav4 and CRV..imho. It looks more expensive than it really is. It's like a baby Japanese Jaguar Fpace. Mazda is really hit it out of the park on this one. Very well rounded package inside and out. Already got a compliment from a fellow older CX5 owner on day 2. They were staring at my new car and asked if we could trade. "That is an awesome car!" :)
soupnazi81 Great comments! Very helpful. Thank you @soupnazi81 :-)
I got the same one you have and I agree with you on all of the above... A fun, gorgeous and upscale looking compact SUV. How has your paint held up though? The soul red crystal looks amazing but it gets little chips so easily.
I'd also like to know if you have an extended warranty? I bought mine CPO it was a lease return but low mileage and in great shape. I was sort of browbeaten into buying the extended warranty and I'm considering canceling it. Have you had any issues with maintenance? Any thoughts?
I have a 2017 CX-5 since mid May. I completely agree with Alex. Awesome video Alex.
I agree with Scott. I bought mine in June. I had the 2016 with the parchment interior but moved over to the black leather interior instead for the 2017...it just feels so much more substantial and premium and is still fun to drive. The stitching on the interior is absolutely beautiful. And the seats are so much more comfortable as well.
I notice it....but I also notice it on every other vehicle in this price range. But the Mazda is still quieter than every other vehicle priced at $34K or lower. So I honestly don't see why this would bother anyone. It's QUIET. AND...it's amazingly fun to drive!! Enjoy!!
Scott Belkin - how is the road noise? I have a 2014 Mazda 3 which I like but road noise is my biggest complaint. Thinking of upgrading to the CX-5.
Just got a stick shift (Canada!) this week and I must say, coming from a Honda Prelude, i keep getting surprised at how well it corners and how fun it is to drive for something so far up off the ground!! Perfect blend of fun and practicality... Alex really helped to make a choice on this baby!
Del Boca Vista when I drive on the highway it seems to be relatively quiet. It is only when I truly get on the gas that the engine gets somewhat loud.
I've owned a Honda CRV. It's decent but dull compared to the CX-5. The Mazda has way more character and it's a lot more fun to drive. The whole package is great and I love the heads up display - lots of info apart from speed. The screen looks a little strange when you first see it but you quickly get used to it and it looks fine, operates well too. To all those dissing the acceleration, switch into sports mode and floor it. It's no slouch. It won't win every drag race but then it's not claiming to be a high performance vehicle.
I own a 2016 cx-5. Test drove 2017 model, it is better many ways. Can compete with luxury SUV brands now.
Jay Ma not with the lacklustre power
if you are driving it in stop-go traffic in the city. does that matter?
Alex you are great. No, seriously, your videos are such a cut above the rest of RUclips - well organized, well paced, and you always get to the critical details that can't simply be found in the spec sheet, like the configuration of the AWD system and its effect on driveability. Thank you again! (And no, this isn't my first time heaping praise on your channel - but every time I go to research a car for myself or others, my first thought is "I hope Alex has had a chance to review this!")
Just got our 2018 CX5. LOVE IT!! However I am a huge Mazda fan! I’ve owned 5 since 2001
Do you have apple carplay or android auto ?
For a family of 3 is a good one ? What about maintenance ?
Victor yes sir!!
Victor I got free maintenance from the dealer. in only 2 years just taken in for oil change, no issues what so ever. its great for family of 3
@@Kingthin Do you have a GT or GTR ?
We have owned a 2017 CX-5 fully-loaded AWD for nearly 3 months now. It is indeed very fun to drive. The interiors feel as sophisticated at some of the luxury compact crossovers out there. The $695 soul red color is a head-turner. Never had these many compliments on the color of a car as this one! The heads-up display is truly great-has navigation instructions and proximity warnings such that you can really keep your eyes on the road. Adaptive cruise control and auto-hold both are great features for comfortable in-traffic driving. Android Auto will be a much-needed perk! Overall, great bang-for-the-buck car! We bought it based on Alex's review of the older model while knowing there'd be certain improvements. Thanks Alex!
I just picked up my Mazda Cx-5 GT Premium based on this video. Thanks for being very informative and not biased. Really helped with my decision.
Did you buy the red one?
I did ;)
Red on this car is just awesome..
I love the white on white combo.
am thinking about the white/white interior for my 2018 GT.
Mazda has always a plus to present the customer and make face smile
Excellent 10/10 review on this gorgeous CX-5 Grand Touring! You have probably the best reviews in my honest opinion as you put detailed effort into every aspect of the vehicle. Great work and you just got another subscriber! Fantastic class-leading, meticulously detailed work!
Alex, I do concur; in my opinion this is the best looking in its class. I think this is because Mazda employs talented designers who really know their craft. I hope they remain consistent in their efforts.
It always looks so beautiful. Everytime I see one on the road, I can't help but admire its looks lol
Jeric Tamayo same here haha
No, i look at it and think, the front end looks shit. Like someone grabbed a big pair of needle nose pliers and pinched up the front end like a cats ass. its horrid looking.
I agree the design should age well unlike some in this segment . My 2014 soul red still looks sharp and gets alot of praise
@@Jack_Hunt youre a fokin idiot then, the only thing missing on the front grill is a benz badge
@@conqwiztadore2213 lol i'm guessing you have buyer regrets LOL. The only thing missing on the front grill is a badge that says "Gullible Idiots" but i'm guessing yours doesn't need that as folks take one look at you and understand.
Best looking SUV!!!
I love the styling of this car especially inside in grand touring with parchment leather and soul red and I test drove it and It was fun to drive on a backroad and comfortable on long journeys thanks to comfortable seats and soft suspension and spacious enough but there could be features such as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a larger head unit with better and sharper graphics with a better user experience like touchscreen that works on the move, Panoramic sunroof, 2.5 skyactiv turbo in the cx-9, and heated and cooled seats, and 8 or 10 speed automatic I know the diesel is on the way and gets far better fuel economy than 2.5 skyactiv turbo but it has 10 less pound feet of torque, has 75 less horsepower, and sounds unrefined.
I'm watching this video in late 2023 because I shopping for a user SUV and I must say this content was excellent. Great job!
I own a fully optioned CX-5 and your review is spot on! If you love to drive and want a crossover that drives like a sports car, this is it. Plus....the HUD is awesome! I have the Soul Red Metallic and people stop me all the time to comment on the beautiful color. Love my Mazda just the way it is. Finally w The AWD system, you can get out in the back county no problem. SWEET!
CX5 interior is FAR better than the Acura RDX. I'd even say that's true across models for both brands, and stretches to exteriors. Mazda is very, very close to being a luxury brand (and I've owned an Acura, MB, and Volvo). Alex, you are always the go-to reviewer for me, far superior to all others on RUclips. Thank you! Bravo!
I was upset with 3 one minute ads but this review is worth the wait. I watches so many review and most people are in for quick RUclips bucks dumping out schitty review. This is even better than other bigger guy like Car & Driver review to be honest.
Spectactular unbiased comparison. I'll be following.
Great review I recently got a 2017 CX-5. It replaced my previous company car a 2015 Escape. I tested the CRV it was a great car. But the drawbacks were anemic styling and although the turbo motor was punchy. I could not get over the fact it was smaller than the engine in my Cooper S. I just felt such a small motor pushing a heavy CSUV would be problems down the road. Another thing what's up with Honda and rubbish paint jobs lately. In Hawaii I see so many new Hondas with faded oxidized roofs. My second choice was the Rogue. I liked it a lot really good value. But I couldn't get past that darn CVT trans. I drove the RAV but it seemed really dated both inside and out. I couldn't see driving something so bland. I liked the CX-5 although it probably was not the very best. It has fresh styling a well made and quality feeling interior. I think overall it reminded me of a 9 in every category rather than a 10 in one category then a 6 in others.
Agree with you, my favorite as well! So much so, bought one this year - great purchase!
Awesome review Alex!
The positive reviews on RUclips sold me on Mazda, so when I was recently looking for a new car, this was the first one I test drove. Needless to say, I didn't have to test drive another car.
First impressions:
1. Throttle response - my prior rides were Hyundai XG350L, MB C300 Sport and Honda Civic EX. The CX5 has sharper throttle response than either of these. A slight touch is enough to get the car going.
2. Build quality - The interior build quality is top notch. To my layman's eye's and feelings, I couldn't differentiate between this and C300. In fact this one felt more premium from a seat standpoint but not so from a steering wheel standpoint.
3. Clean design - getting rid of the center entertainment console with place to insert CDs etc. is a great move imho. It allowed the designers to build a more seamless interior.
4. Chassis and Transmission - the chassis is taut through turns and there is little body roll. I took the car around roundabouts and kept a decent speed and the chassis and the suspension did a good job and felt solid. Also when using the sport mode, the transmission shifts allows you to rev to a higher rpm range and stay there, so it makes up for the lack of engine power if you need to pass someone quickly on the highway.
I ended up buying a fully loaded GT, AWD - Deep Blue Mica with a parchment interior.
Am so in love with this car, I can't wait for when I can afford it if ever!🥰🥰 2017 grand touring AWD soul red
I used to be a Honda and Nissan fanboy, but have fully converted to Mazda after owning 2 Mazda cars back to back, Mazda interior feels so premium that it almost deserves a separate luxury brand of its own. If CX-5 gets a turbo engine in the future it'll wipe the floors in the most competitive market.
Bought one in June 2017 GT, replacing a 2013 CX-5. Completely agree. It's a grown up version of the previous models in my view. Outstanding ride, it's quiet, and uses quality material inside. Not totally sold on the infotainment system, but it can be mastered.
The last generation CX5 was nice looking and had the offroad type look, but this new one looks so upscale. It has the looks that will make people say, "Wow who makes that? What is that?!" And in the new soul red it looks even more upscale!
That is the kind of review and comparison that I would like to see. Thank you for the video Alex!
I love that I'm here within a minute of the upload and it's still in 1080p
Must be a RUclips thing, it shows 4K on my end, we uploaded last night do it would fully process the video. Go figure.
Alex on Autos I like your show too bad it came a little late . I just got a 2017 cx5 touring with prefer packet . I should have gone with gt .. oh well .
We drove so many different SUVs and always came back to the CX 5 and then finally made the call last week. Looking forward to the delivery of our CX5 Limited in the awesome Crystal Soul Red!
No other SUV (but the Outback came close) was comparable to the CX5
I got mine too in Soul red this week.... it is sooo gorgeous!!
Wow! This is literally a full review! way better than consumer reports channel! CX 5..great car!
I agree, best looking compact crossover in America!
best reviewer hands down explains in laymen terms still provide lots of technical details and awesome comparison with other top cars in the segment. Thanks for no-BS review.
Alex on Autos I totally agree. I know looks are subjective but it's hot. I have a 17 6 and my friend has this CUV and it's awesome.
0-60mph at 12m has a typo in. You put 7.1, should be 8.1 seconds.
Professional review, excellent!
wow excellent review, i've been waiting so long time for your test drive and opinion. When choosing my next CUV, i have to decide between CRV Touring and CX-5 GT. I've made my choice with CX-5 GT Tech and i don't regret it at all.
I don't like the interior and the dashboard of the CRV, there's a lag of the turbo too.
The CX-5 have a beautilful design inside and out, FUN TO DRIVE... One week after possession i put 245-50-19 with new wheel and OMG what a handling.
I don't need a bigger trunk not even a CVT.
RAV4 looks date interior, no handling
Rogue CVT and no power at all.
Thanks Alex continue your good work!
I was looking initially at the RAV4 Hybrid (the gas engine is said by many to be underpowered for this car/SUV), but to get the power seats I have in my 2007 Camry LE ("Low End"?) I would have to get the RAV4 Limited top-end trim. I don't get why it's not available on the XLE. You definitely get a lot for the money with the CX-5.
JBM425 hi every cuv have something to appeal but after some research and test drive my conclusion come to CX5. CX5 it's not perfect for me, some features are missing that other cuv offers. Example: camera 360 from Rogue, panoramic sunroof, ventilation seats, etc...
Like Alex said, CX5 need more power, larger r wheels and some premium features on GT Tech to make a difference from GX and GS
Very true and as one reviewer puts it . Turbos are great but as the engine heats up there is the inherent reduction in performance not to mention reliability issues in the long term
Get the CR-V
I borrowed my neighbours 18’cx5 gt and she filled the tank before hand. Once on the highway. I reset the trip and was getting 7L/100kms. But after the 400km trip, I filled it & it only got 9L/100kms. I’ll have to see if she filled it all the way. Also her trip 2 was 3,000kms and showed 13L/100kms. Mazda needs a hybrid option. I really thought the projected digital speedometer on the windshield was safe and cool. The lack of Apple CarPlay & Lane Keep Assist was a minor inconvenience. The leather seats looked cheap.
We bought the 2018 Touring based mostly off this review. Very well done, I will continue to recommend AA to everyone I can.
good job alex! Other reviewers only repeats the spec sheet but you actually go in depth!
The best car review I have seen. Comparison with competitors was great. Excellent.
In Canada you can actually get the base model FWD in a six-speed manual still but it's because we still get the base 2.0L engine on the base model.
Enjoyed this video and your thorough reviews. Your previous reviews were one of the primary reasons why I purchased a Mazda CX-5. Though it was a 2016/17 model, it was the Grand Touring model, it is fun to drive, better bang for the buck than a 2017 Honda CR-V (which I enjoyed your review of also!). Just not enamored with a CRT transmission. This 2017/18 model looks intriguing because of the diesel option. I wish more mfr's would have that as an option. Outstanding work on this review!
Agreed that it is one of the most practical SUV's on the market - with tons of driving fun thrown in for good measure!
It's not a rocket, but it definitely offers a great driving experience. Great test drive review Alex!!
The 7" infotainment screen is perfect for the mazda3 but it seems a bit small in the CX-5 and definitely way too small in the CX-9. I understand that mazda may not have the resources to make different size infotainment displays but this is one thing they need to work on.
Wife has a 2017 Cx5 Touring. I love it!
It’s zippy and holds tight to the road while offering finishes that are downright sexy. This is not your average mid-size SUV. The stitching alone separates it from its competitors and the Bose sound system is on point. The tech is on par with any luxury vehicle I’ve driven in the past and you get alot of value for your money.
Great review ! I'll take the base sport model with black cloth seats. White leather is bad news. Personally, I'm glad it's not a turbo. Premium gas can cost 50 cents more a gallon. That can really add up. 187 h.p. is fine for me. Wish they didn't change the front end. I think the 2016 grill looks better than this new one. They tried to get a little too fancy. Still a great looking vehicle. Thanks.
Excellent review! I just did a test drive in a GT Premium and was really surprised by the luxury interior and smooth and quiet performance.
I would pick the Mazda CX-5 over CR-V or Rav4 because of its fun to drive nature and that 6 speed. But I'll probably wait till 2019 to get a new CX-5 since they recently announced a new engine breakthrough-more efficient engine aka Skyactiv-X...I just hope they don't trade the 6 speed transmission with a CVT. They should also offer a hybrd version of this to compete with Totota Rav4 Hybrid and Nissan Rogue Hybrid.
Excellent super informative review! I have been driving Mazda for many years now abd my 18 CX 5 is by far the most advanced and I absolutely love it! I believe the motor has more than enough power that I need and I love how much quieter it is, I wouldn’t change a thing!Zoom zoom!
Best reviewer, thanks!
First of all I we own three Lexus Suv in the family, I test drove this car, Rav4 and CRV as my son needs an Suv, this is hands down better vehicle than all others in its class, quality and finishing is right there with luxury vehicles but not the price. My son changed his mind and bought IS 350, go figure out.
Your son is very wise. He picked something more reliable, faster, and most important of all has much better resale value
Your kid wanted a fast sports car. I test drove the Lexus NX 200t and compared it to the 2017 CX-5 and found the Mazda a much better overall value - and $10,000 less expensive. PLUS - the Mazda was quieter and had even MORE cargo capacity on the inside than the Lexus - which is a larger vehicle.
I certainly enjoy your reviews Alex. Just a couple comments though. After trying both the 2017 CRV and 2017 CX-5 I prefer the CRV. My biggest reasons; I don't really care about speeding around corners. Stable, predictable handling and a quiet comfortable interior are more important to me. Though I cant put my finger on why, I just find the CRVs cab brighter, more open and uncluttered. Gas mileage is a consideration as is straight line passing power. At similar price points the CX-5 has some attractive options. The Bose Stereo for one. The projection data on the windshield didn't work very well with my polaroid sun glasses. As for looks I prefer the general Honda look than the Mazda but that is a personal thing. Keep up the good work Alex..
@12:12 I think you meant 8.1 in the 0-60 comparison graphic rather than 7.1. It confused me at first.
Yeah, it's pokey because it's a lot of vehicle for a 4 cyl.
ya probably, i've also seen alot of other car websites have the Cx5 as high as 8.2 0-60, so either way its not the fastest car out there. atleast its not like a rogue lol.
Eli Yang the fact that its on par with a Rouge in acceleration is just sad.
WylunCustoms but it is
I just test drove one, it's no where close to being as slow and dull as the rouge.
Why are Americans so obsessed with 0-60 times ,when running costs,comfort and design are by far 90% of the worlds first concern,why ???.
And reliability which is the most important to me and most other people, it’s the same in the UK all the reviewers are car nuts and go on about acceleration and top speed, if the car has reasonable performance in both neither matter much at all in the real world.
im not an american,but i totally understand why 0-60 is one of the very important factor to select a vehicle. 0-60 is the best indicator of accerleration ability of an vehicle in daily driving.Even you dont care about the fun of speeding. The acceleration ability is directly linked to your life in some cases. And it is also an important factor of your confidence on the road. So funny people like you dont understand how important 0-60 can link to your life. Dont get me wrong, other factors especially reliability is also extremly important.
@@samliang4146nope, the braking is much more important than acceleration in terms of life saving but nobody talks about braking performance. If your driving confidence depends on acceleration then you aren’t a great driver and should concentrate on learning to understand how to judge traffic speeds and improve your technique.
Also two powered usb ports in the center console in the back for those wondering. So if you have 4 travelling you can charge stuff, but five makes it not possible.
Nice review, just picked my GT in Canada, got to say totally fun to drive. Thanks Alex ! Do the Cx-3 2018 ;)
Alex, it's worth noting that the Equinox only has .6 cubic feet more cargo capacity then the CX5 with the second row up. I would say the two cars are more or less tied here. A great review as always. Keep it up.
I'm looking forward to hearing your presentation of the upcoming HCCI Skyactiv X engine. At this point, wishing for the 2.5L turbo in the CX-5 is like wishing for the rotary.
Interesting look into the past. As of May 2019, the CX-5 Turbo is a thing, the Diesel is confirmed, while the HCCI engine is still vaporware.
Mazda video? insta like.
Apple watch? I like too.
harry potter glasses? I like.
Showing overlays of the numbers you're talking about, so it's easier for the viewer to understand? I like
Near the ending of the video Alex says that Rogue is the only competitor of CX-5 with 3 rows of seats. However, Mitsubishi Outlander is a competitor of CX-5 and it comes standard with 3 rows of seats. Outlander can be easily purchased below $25k in US.
There is a gap in their lineup. They should make a 2 row 190 inch long midsize CX7 with the 2.5 turbo engine to seat in between CX5 and CX9.
cx9 is the smallest in it's class interior-wise, just a bloated version of cx-5. it's a pretend 3-row. so, I don't think there's room between the 2.
I agree. It is the most attractive and fun to drive when compared to other vehicles in its class. I love the reliability and fuel economy of the crv too but I don’t like its look at the back or the redesign either. And the rav4 is lacking on many points. Also the cx5 is reliable comfortable and fun to drive. 😊
Excellent intro/review to this car. Great for people who's seriously contemplating on this car.
Great review on a great car. When the lease on my CX5 is over, guess what I'm going to get. You got it right, another CX5 which is a great combo with my Mazda6.
Great quality and value. 👍👍👍
My one complaint about the CX-5 I test drove was that the front side windows felt too small and the side pillar too far forward. To be fair, I'm pretty tall, so maybe I just put the seat back farther than most, but I felt like I couldn't see well enough out the side because the pillar was right there in the way. If not for that, I probably would have gone for the CX-5 over the Forester I ended up buying.
Great review, seems like a toss up with CRV getting better MPG, acceleration, and room(these are utility vehicles first) and CX-5 more fun to drive, with better exterior and interior. I tend to prefer the more fun car over the more practical(CX-5 over CR-V) within reason, but now that I'm getting a little older and with Colorado roads tending to be a bit rutted and pot-holed, I'm finding that ride is just as important so was leaning back towards the CR-V. Glad to hear Mazda has improved the ride!
I think the tipping point would be the diesel. 300 ft. lb. of torque will make it faster real world, with great MPG, not to mention less maintenance and longer lasting engine.
I used to own Mazdas back in the Mazdaspeed days, now back to Honda/Acura. But my folks just traded in their older CX-5 in for the fully loaded 2018 CX-5. I hated the old one, hated it. But this new one is entirely different, comfortable, and much higher quality interior. It really is a different vehicle. Has features my loaded Acura doesn't have. Drives much better than previous CX-5. Still hate the screen sticking out of the dash but it does work well for the most part. Great review once again. That engine still sounds horrible though. Needs a meatier exhaust note or go completely quiet.
I think it would be nice to add in gas tank capacity as well. I would love to know how much the car can go in a full tank. 👍
Gonna hold out for the 2.2 liter diesel! It's gonna be fun on a bun! In addition, your my favorite auto reviewer Alex! I appreciate the details and your personal observations of any given vehicle, stay the course Alex!
I have the 2018 GT and love it absolutely.
I'll get the cx5 over the crv due to the crv having that stupid cvt
My Rav 4 is slow to accelerate, rarely has mechanical issues, great resale value and will last long enough to hand off to a child after 15 to 20 years of use and continue to start every morning.
Please explain to me what isn't fun about a reliable car?
Russell Condie that there's no enjoyment while driving it. Sure it's reliable but you feel nothing when your on the road, no connection. Your just holding a steering wheel and turning it, somethings happening as you do it but you can't feel it. It's hard to explain in words.
The only other way I can say it is your not driving an appliance aka something boring
Tech Defender, when I was young and had no worries saving for retirement, college and weddings for my 3 children I would have gone for the zoom, zoom, but at 53 reliability and resale value is more important to me than a thrill ride and my thought process must not be too off looking at the number of appliances on the road.
Enjoy the ride and have a good day.
Another great review Alex. Just to be clear though this is a complete redesign, a new generation. Not merely a refresh.
Oddly enough they lowered the ground clearance while making the ride soft, thus affecting the handling.
The car is amazing and probably the best compact suv out there. While the CX-5 has pretty good horsepower, if that engine gets more powerful it will sell much better. For the 2019 Mazda CX-5, Mazda should improve engine power and try to improve the cargo space. Like Alex said at 2:49 the CX-5 is one of the smaller SUVs in the segment, so they can easily make the CX-5 a bit longer to improve cargo space slightly, and still keep the interior spacious and exterior stylish. If they improve that Mazda will hands down win for sure(it probably will win now too). If cargo space is improved, it will be harder to make the engine more powerful, but I feel that Mazda can do it!!!
Another great review Alex. I find the previous model far better proportioned than this somewhat chunkier design. This new car has some nice exterior details such as the headlights but the lower front bumper looks weird and unfinished. The inside is nice but I wish they had integrated the info screen into the dash plus I wish they had carried over the CD player like in previous models. Personally I'd buy the previous model over this one. Adding a Sprint Booster module to the electronic gas pedal will vastly increase its responsiveness.
While a agree with your assessment of the CX5 for the most part, I would venture to say that "if" Mazda put the 2.5 ltr motor of the CX9 into the CX5 it would be ever so much fun! I am still holding out hope that the new 2.2 diesel motor will be "my" new car! I would of made my decision and purchase already with the 2017 Highlander (limited) but have decided to wait and get a personal look at the CX5 w/the diesel motor and all wheel drive! We say see later on this year...The new CX5 is so much more better looking than the rest of it's segment!
If Mazda would renew their infotainment screen to something bigger, more capable with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, this would be at the top of my list.
plus Mazda's skeuomorphic design really needs to go. Looks super dated.
accord to Mazda latest media session, they will have new mazda connect system in 2019 and new skyactive-x engine
Here's hoping this will happen - looking forward to it!
I have Android and use Spotify and Nav just fine with the infotainment along with voice to text abd other things. I don't know what Android Auto would add that would make things better. Apple Car Play might be different, though.
Next gen, 2018, maybe....I've watching its refreshing models every year; they have come a loooong way. It's coming together now.... I think I'LL BUY THE NEXT ONE, 2018 MODEL...
I have had the 2017 Mazda CX-5 GT with the Premium package since mid May 2017. Here are some of my thoughts on the vehicle so far. I agree completely with Alex on Autos in his review. If you get a chance I would also watch the MotorWeek and SavageGeese video review as well.
MotorWeek Review
ruclips.net/video/WPYHuEmhDwM/видео.html
Savagegeese Review
ruclips.net/video/o-iWU8VGCH0/видео.html
A lot of people have asked about road/engine noise. As far as the road noise/engine noise, this has been significantly decreased. It is only when you floor it does the engine get somewhat loud. Remember this is a 4 cylinder naturally aspirated, 187 horsepower engine, so don’t expect BMW M series power or Mercedes Benz S level quiet.
But let's also be real folks. This car is FUN to drive. The engine noise levels are not an issue. It's actually pretty darn quiet on the highway at 65 miles per hour in cruise mode. But let's talk about how we/I actually drive this car. It makes me want to turn up the rock music, roll down the windows and drive a little faster. ZOOM ZOOM!
So if you like library quiet then save your money, buy a Rolls Royce and get a chauffeur.
My thoughts/issues I have with the CX-5 that might not get covered in first drive type reviews are the following
1. Seat comfort - with the GT trim, the leather seat bolsters by my legs are stiff. I am 6 feet tall and weigh about 240.
2. The infotainment system sounds great with the Bose system, but it is bare bones as far as functionality. They need Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The command dial is easy to use.
3. Living in Long Island NY it is now getting colder, the heated steering wheel only heats around the center of the steering wheel near the hand grips. The heated seats in front also only heat the bottom of the seat (by your legs). It does not heat up the back part of the seat. I guess Mazda figures if it's that cold you will be wearing a jacket. Mazda cheapened out here.
4. Since I have the Grand Touring with Premium package, I have come to love the Active Driving Display/heads up display. I would have a hard time getting a car without a HUD. If you can afford the GT with Premium package, get it.
5. The infotainment/navigation screen does not allow you to input info by touch above 6 miles an hour - seriously annoying. It also locks you out of changing some vehicle settings above 6 mph. Give me a disclaimer and the touchscreen ability. Too many lawyers and nannies.
6. Be careful with the radar cruise control. 99% of the time it works flawlessly, but with any tech like that I have had to over ride the cruise control by braking to avoid a crash. Sometimes (rarely) it acts like it doesn’t sense the car in front.
7. When I connect my iPhone 7 with iOS 11 to the USB ports and try to access the songs in Apple Music it takes a LONG time for the system to populate the songs and allow me to scroll through the artists to a particular song. I usually just ask Siri to play a particular song when its connected to Bluetooth. I will try to make a video of what I mean by this and link to it.
You're the man Alex! Excellent content and presentation. Really looking forward to your video when you get hold of the Diesel version.
Great effort been putted in one video and well organized (as ususl). Thank you Alex.
awesome review. glad i found this, as i am seriously considering the 2018 GT.
FINALLY THEY SENT YOU ONE!
Great review as usual, The roars surfaces in the US and Canada are not getting any better and most repairs done on the surfaces are not even with the pavement. My wife complaints about her Lexus NX ride all the time and cant wait to take it back so Mazda did a good think if they made it softer.
Getting a new car to prep for family planning and came down to this or the RAV4. I wanted reliability (pref Japanese) and NO CVT. Toyota is offering a lot more incentives with model year end pricing and this came out later in '17 so incentives are limited. At this point with the pricing and standard safety features I am leaning toward the RAV4 but I just got that feeling of pretty luxury sitting in the Mazda. It just doesn't seem as kid friendly tho. Something about the vinyl seats of the touring trim seem like they will wear poorly and the piano black finishes attract finger prints and scratches. That being said it is a gorgeous vehicle (with a J-vin!) with amazing steering and I have been losing sleep trying to decide between the two. I have a feeling it will be the RAV4 but I'm not ready for a mom car like that!
I don't know of any CUV whose styling and looks gets me too excited
I like the look overall! nice review as usual thanks alex!!!
I know you mention that the sound level is just about equal to the CR-V, but I found the revised CX-5 to be noticeable superior in the sound department. I'm wondering if the ANC plays with your DB meter somehow because just about every Honda I test drive is noticeable louder than the competition.
I hear a lot of wind noise while driving on the highway. Has this been an issue?
Alex like always... best review online
Thank you
You are the best. Period.
Thank you so much for the in depth reviews. I would love to see the child seat reviews make a come back. Maybe you are too busy with many cars coming to you for reviews. I, for one, loved those videos. How would the 2.2 diesel coming in this engine make a difference to you recommendations? Obviously the fuel economy score is going to be vastly better. What do you predict will the 0-60 numbers be for that car? Slower? More or less the same? I'd assume that the low end torque is going to make driveability quite good, but it still won't be an acceleration monster.