Mazda CX-5 2023
It's not the easiest 2023 Mazda CX-5 known for its sportier ride, but it also offers almost luxury fun for its money. It's this unique combination of agile street manners and interior sophistication that makes the CX-5 one of our favorite small SUVs, especially high-end modifications that include a 256 hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The engine is a 187-hp four, but four-wheel compression is the most popular of all the mods, as is the CX-Five's Agile handling, capable of being strong no matter which engine you choose. The CX-5 isn't perfect, though it depends who you ask, as it's no longer as widespread as rivals like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4. Still, few compact SUVs can match Mazda's charms, and from a practical point of view, the impressive CX-Five certainly does
What's for new 2023
The CX-5, which joins the same-sized CX-50 in this year's lineup, is fueling sibling rivalry in the same showrooms, but Mazda says it plans to sell both models for now. The 2023 CX-5 is largely unchanged from last year, but gets a new optional Rhodium White paint finish
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The CX-Five's select 187-hp four-cylinder engine has excellent throttle response when driving away from traffic lights or around town, making it feel faster than it actually is. It feels underpowered at higher speeds, even when trying to jump or skid on the highway. The 256-hp turbo model we tested produced much quicker acceleration. Both engines are mated to a swift, computer-controlled six-speed gearbox and all-wheel drive. You don't want to force the CX-five to try it or understand its benefits. And of course her unique handling and quiet cornering make her a great Sunday cruiser. But it also soaks up off-roading with ease and delivers a first-class crossover experience that costs twice as much. This dynamic and harmonious interplay is unparalleled in the middle class. Bumps are isolated, road noise is minimal, and the damping isn't harsh or bouncy. At the same time, Mazda comes to life on winding roads. Electro-assisted tracking gives a positive answer. The Signature version we tested had a reassuring feel on the brake pedal that worked instantly and didn't bother you too much when you looked at the brakes
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
With engine options, the CX-5 has excellent fuel economy. The base 2.5-liter engine is rated at 24mpg city and 30mpg on the highway. The more efficient turbo engine is rated at 22 mpg city and 27 highway. We tested each on our 75-mph freeway, part of our extensive testing program, and the same old Lumbar 32-mpg compared to the Rapid Four's 30-mpg result. For more information on the CX-5's gas economy, visit the EPA website
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Build a high-end CX-Five and you might think you've been ripped off in an Audi or Mercedes by a carjacker. Luxurious fabrics and large shapes make sense, especially in the luxury segment. The floor-mounted hinged throttle is noticeably higher than the more common floor-standing model, the rounded steering wheel sits ahead of the transmission and is now slightly angled, and the front seat armrest sits on the same top for superior comfort. Small packages have their drawbacks: in this case, the CX-Five only had 9 pieces of luggage in the back seat during our tests. Garage spaces benefit from a completely flat loading surface. The cabin also has many corners for storing smartphones and other small items. The center console has a deep shelf up front and a convenient pull-out trash can