The Resilient 2025 Mazda CX-5

The compact crossover utility market remains an important player in the new vehicle market, with more than a dozen models to consider. For 2025, Mazda continues to offer two models – the CX-5 and CX-50 – the former represents the focus of this review. As with other Mazda models, the CX-5 leads with its cutting-edge design, advanced technologies, and robust powertrain choices. While it is the older of the two available compact crossovers, it remains a solid choice for consumers.

Model Overview

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 is available in eight trims. The base 2.5 S starts at $28,570, while the 2.5 S Select is priced at $29,900. The 2.5 S Preferred is available for $31,250, and the 2.5 S Carbon Edition comes in at $32,600. For shoppers preferring more premium features, the 2.5 S Premium Plus costs $35,200. Performance-focused trims include the 2.5 Carbon Turbo at $37,000 and the 2.5 Turbo Premium at $37,800. At the top of the line, the 2.5 Turbo Signature is priced at $40,600. Add $1,420 for the destination fee.

Exterior Design and Features

What sets the Mazda CX-5 apart from its competitors is the brand’s Kodo design philosophy. This look translates into a sleek exterior with an attractive front fascia and handsome alloy wheels.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 includes several standard exterior features. All models come equipped with LED headlights and taillights. Body-colored side mirrors and door handles are included, along with 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels. Additional features are a rear roof spoiler and dual exhaust outlets with bright finishers.

Optional exterior features include 19-inch alloy wheels and a power sliding-glass moonroof with an interior sunshade. A power rear liftgate with programmable height adjustment is available. Certain trims, such as the Carbon Edition, include Polymetal Gray Metallic paint and black metallic 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels.

Interior Design and Features

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 comes standard with a range of interior features including cloth-trimmed seats, manual air conditioning, full power accessories, and ample storage compartments.

Optional interior features vary by trim level and include imitation leather or leather-trimmed seats, power-adjustable front seats with memory settings, and heated front and rear seats. Other choices include dual-zone automatic climate control, a power sliding-glass moonroof, and a power rear liftgate.

As with most models in this segment, seating is for five, although we find it ideal for four.

Safety Highlights

Mazda equips the CX-5 with its i-Activsense suite of safety features. This bundle includes standard blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, and radar cruise control with full stop and go. The 2.5 Turbo Signature grade adds smart city brake support reverse and driver attention alert.

Technology Highlights

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 comes standard with numerous technology features. All models include a 10.25-inch full-color center display equipped with the Mazda Connect infotainment system. This bundle supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, which enable touchscreen access. Additionally, dual front USB-C ports are also present.

Optional technology features vary by trim level. Higher trims offer wireless smartphone integration, along with wireless phone charging. For enhanced sound quality, a Bose 10-speaker audio system with Centerpoint and AudioPilot technology is available. The 2.5 S Premium Plus trim includes a surround-view monitor along with front and rear parking sensors. Additionally, Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) is available, providing normal, off-road, and sport modes, which are helpful to adapt to different driving conditions.

Powertrain Choices

The standard powertrain is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. Choose the top trim models and a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine delivers up to 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque when powered by premium fuel. Sending power to all four wheels is a six-speed automatic transmission. Yes, all-wheel drive is standard with the CX-5.

According to the EPA, the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine achieves an estimated 25 miles per gallon (mpg) combined, with 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The available turbocharged delivers an estimated 24 mpg combined, with 22 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

Driving Impressions

Mazda has long been known for imbuing its vehicles with a distinct driving character, and the 2025 CX-5 continues that tradition. Behind the wheel of the turbocharged model, the experience is one of poised control and exemplary power, a combination that sets it apart in a crowded compact SUV segment.

The heart of this impression lies in the turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. Delivering up to 256 horsepower with premium fuel (227 horsepower on regular), it pulls strongly from a standstill and feels especially eager under full throttle. This surge of power comes on smoothly and predictably, making highway merges and passing maneuvers effortless. The standard all-wheel-drive system ensures that this power is delivered to the road without drama, even in less-than-ideal conditions.

Complementing the engine’s capability is a well-tuned six-speed automatic transmission. It shifts with precision and avoids the rubber-band feel found in many competitors’ continuously variable transmissions. In spirited driving, it holds gears long enough to maximize the engine’s power but transitions seamlessly when the pace returns to normal.

The CX-5’s handling dynamics are equally impressive. The steering is direct, giving drivers a clear sense of connection to the road. On winding stretches, the CX-5 feels composed and agile, traits rarely associated with vehicles in this class. Body roll is minimal, and the responsive suspension strikes an excellent balance between cornering capability and ride comfort.

Braking confidence is another hallmark of the driving experience. Notably, the brakes feel strong and reassuring underfoot, offering predictable stopping power whether coming to a gradual halt in traffic or executing an emergency stop.

Mazda has crafted the 2025 CX-5 turbocharged model for buyers who value an engaging driving experience alongside the practicality of a compact SUV. Whether tackling city streets, open highways, or winding backroads, it rewards its driver with a sense of control and capability that’s uncommon in this segment. If spirited performance and confidence-inspiring handling are high on your list of priorities, the turbocharged CX-5 should not be overlooked.

Competitive Set

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 competes in the compact SUV segment against models like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Nissan Rogue. You’ll also find the Volkswagen Taos, Subaru Forester, and the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport. Other models include the Ford Escape and Ford Bronco Sport. From GM, there is the Chevrolet Equinox, Buick Envision, and GMC Terrain. Finally, the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson complete the segment. That’s 15 models to consider across the line.

Parting Thoughts

With two models to consider, Mazda covers the compact utility vehicle segment well. Both models are worth exploring, although the CX-50 is the more modern of the two. Regardless of your choice, this dynamic duo ensures you’ll find a compelling mix of style, performance, and practicality, making it easier than ever to match your SUV to your lifestyle and driving preferences.

2025 Mazda CX-5 Specifications

See Also — Mazda’s Remarkable Sales Performance in 2023

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