2024 Mazda CX-5

2024 Mazda CX-5 Is A True Driver’s Car

The majority of compact SUVs in the class are boring, dull, and uninspiring to drive. Luckily, that’s not the case with the 2024 Mazda CX-5. While it’s a compact crossover, it handles and performs in a way that’s more akin to a large hatchback. For shoppers who enjoy driving and want something that doesn’t constantly remind them of the fact that they’re behind the wheel of an SUV, the CX-5 does just that in a way few can match.

What really sets the CX-5 apart from competitors is its athletic handling. The SUV has precise steering, controlled body movements, and buttoned-down suspension that make it enjoyable on a Sunday cruise down a windy road. Having an SUV that handles the way the CX-5 does is impressive, but it’s the way the entire package feels harmonious is what’s so stirring.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Has A Luxurious Design

Instead of going down the same road rugged design path as competitors, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 fully embraces its road-going nature in its design. The SUV doesn’t have robust body cladding or knobby all-terrain tires but features body-color trim pieces, alloy wheels, and a hunkered-down look.

In addition to having a sporty exterior design, the CX-5’s cabin feels like a cut above the rest. The cabin has first-class materials and a premium design that makes it split the difference between mainstream and luxury options. Mazda also paid attention to the small details, like the knurling on the dials, the way the buttons feel, and the placement of the steering wheel.

2024 Mazda CX-5 Is Available With A Powerful Turbo Engine

The standard engine in the 2024 Mazda CX-5 isn’t anything to write home about. The CX-5 comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. While the engine doesn’t endow the SUV with blistering acceleration, it has great throttle response that makes it feel quicker than its horsepower rating.

For extra performance, Mazda offers Turbo models with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. With premium fuel, the turbo engine puts out 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. These are large figures for the compact class and bring much quicker acceleration and stronger passing power on the highway. It’s a pricey upgrade, but one that’s certainly worth it for drivers seeking engine performance that matches the SUV’s handling capability.

Both engines are paired with a traditional six-speed automatic transmission and come with all-wheel drive.

Does The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Get Good Fuel Economy?

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 is simply average when it comes to fuel economy. With the standard four-cylinder engine, the CX-5 can get up to 26 mpg combined. The more powerful turbocharged engine is rated at up to 24 mpg combined.

Mazda doesn’t offer the CX-5 with a hybrid powertrain, which is becoming more readily available in the compact class.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Is Short On Interior Space

With an emphasis on performance and style, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 puts interior space on the backburner. The CX-5 doesn’t have a lot of passenger space, even for a two-row compact SUV. While the CX-5 has 39.6 inches of rear legroom, the rear seats feel tight for adults. On longer trips, the rear seats are best reserved for kids.

2024 Mazda CX-5 Has Below-Average Cargo Space

When compared to other compact SUVs in the class, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 is well below the pack on the cargo front. The CX-5 has 30.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and a total of 59.3 cubic feet of cargo space. That’s not a lot for a compact SUV.

Is The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Good For Families?

The 2024 Mazda CX-5’s small interior and limited cargo area make it a poor choice for families. Other compact SUVs that have larger rear seats and more cargo space are better options for families.

2024 Mazda CX-5 Has An Unconventional Infotainment System

Unlike most vehicles on sale, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 doesn’t have a touchscreen. The CX-5 comes with a 10.25-inch display that’s controlled through a rotary knob and a few physical buttons. The controls for the infotainment system are positioned behind the gear shifter to be easier to reach for the driver.

Unfortunately, the CX-5’s infotainment system isn’t as straightforward as a touchscreen would be. On the road, completing simple tasks is difficult. With the current generation of the CX-5 being introduced in 2017, we hoped Mazda would update the infotainment system to a more intuitive touchscreen.

Is The 2024 Mazda CX-5 A Good SUV?

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 may not tick the same boxes as other compact SUVs, but it’s still an extraordinary option in the segment. It’s one of the sportiest, most stylish, and most luxurious compact SUVs in the mainstream class. Refreshingly enjoyable to drive, available with a powerful turbocharged engine, and packed with features, the CX-5 takes a different approach to a compact SUV.

Mazda’s take on the compact SUV does require some compromises, mainly when it comes to interior space, cargo capacity, and towing capacity.

2024 Mazda CX-5 Alternatives

The Honda CR-V may not be as enjoyable to drive as the CX-5, but it has a comfortable ride, great fuel economy figures, an available hybrid powertrain, and a large cabin. The CR-V’s tech features are easy to use, while the SUV has a premium interior design.

For something with bolder styling, there’s the Kia Sportage. It features a spacious cabin, a smooth ride, a lengthy list of standard features, and a wide range of powertrains.