2019 Mazda CX-5 review

1. Enjoyable driving experience

The 2019 Mazda CX-5 is the SUV that drives like a smaller, more conventional car. And that's great news for those looking to make the daily commute as fun and stress-free as possible. The ultra-nimble steering and suspension make tight city driving and parking an absolute breeze. And once you get out onto the open road, you can really unwind and enjoy what the CX-5 has to offer. SUV size and convenience married to the driving pleasure of a smaller car? The 2019 Mazda CX-5 is proof that you can have both in one.

2. Eye-catching style

Mazda has always had a reputation for striking body styles, especially on its sports cars, like the MX-5. And despite being a compact SUV rather than a small sports car, the CX-5 follows a design philosophy akin to the latter. With a front very similar to the Mazda6 sedan, the CX-5 has genuine curb appeal and is the sort of car you'll find yourself turning around to look back at even after you've just stepped out of the driver seat. With its smooth road manners and fun handling, the 2019 Mazda CX-5 brings the panache and style of a much smaller, sportier car in a compact SUV package.

3. Upscale interior

The 2019 Mazda CX-5 manages to bring an air of luxury to its interior. With a range of features and beautiful details, the CX-5 is the place to be. Even the base CX-5 has a premium feel to its interior, with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, Bluetooth^® compatibility, and USB ports as standard.

At the top end, the 2019 Mazda CX-5 includes two new trim levels that really pile on the luxury. The Grand Touring Reserve includes heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel and side mirrors, and leather upholstery throughout. Right at the top of the range, the Signature trim adds premium leather upholstery, wood trim accents, and ambient lighting to the interior. For journeys long or short, the 2019 Mazda CX-5 will make you and your passengers feel like VIPs every time you step inside.

4. Comfortable ride

The 2019 Mazda CX-5 doesn't just provide a fun driving experience, it gives you comfort and a smooth ride as well. The cabin is nice and quiet, and the standard six-speed automatic gearbox is very agreeable. Additionally, the automatic dual-zone climate control (standard on the Touring trim and higher), heated front and rear seats (standard on the Grand Touring Reserve trim and higher) and ventilated front seats (standard on the Grand Touring trim and higher) keep everyone in the cabin at just the right temperature and comfort level. The 2019 Mazda CX-5 is the compact SUV so pleasant to sit in, you may not want to get out again!

5. Great variety of engines

The 2019 Mazda CX-5 is available with three different engines, each one serving a unique purpose. The base 2.5L four-cylinder engine is a competent all-rounder, with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg combined on the 2019 model.

Meanwhile, if it's a bit more power you want, try the 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine—standard on the Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trims. 227 horsepower gives a gain of 40 horsepower over the standard 2.5L engine, and the 310 lb.-ft. of torque is a boost over that standard's 124 lb.-ft. Alternatively, if you would like a powertrain that couples fuel economy with the power of a turbocharged engine, there's the 2.2L turbocharged diesel engine available as an option on the Signature trim. Rated at 290 lb.-ft. of torque, it also manages an EPA-estimated 28 mpg combined, with a strong 27 mpg in the city (2019 models). For whatever balance of power and practicality you require, there's an engine for you in the 2019 Mazda CX-5 lineup.