Cars in Review: 2024 Mazda CX-5

In this week’s blog post we will be reviewing the 2024 Mazda CX-5. With a price tag starting at $30,720 and Car and Driver Magazine giving this vehicle a 9/10 rating, this car really stands true to its legacy. This compact SUV has been around since 2012, and actually was the successor of the Tribute and the slightly larger CX-7. But it also made a name for itself very quickly since it was first produced. 

This was Mazda’s first vehicle to have a full range of technologies equipped, including Skyactiv – used to increase fuel efficiency and engine output – and Mazda’s first model to feature the “Kodo” design language. 

Did You Know: The first CX-5 was first shown at the September 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show?

What’s New for 2024?

Mazda decided to add the Carbon Turbo trim level to the CX-5 model lineup for 2024 like it did for the CX-30 crossover and 3 sedan and hatchback models – and it is very obvious to notice. It wears a brown Zirconic Sand paint and black trim pieces (including the wheels and mirror caps). This model comes available in an optional 256 horsepower turbocharged 2.5L inline four engine and all wheel drive. 

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The 2024 CX-5 comes with a standard 187 horsepower four cylinder engine (186 lb ft of torque) and has great pulling response when accelerating from stop lights or trying to get around the city. The slight downside? It feels unpowered especially when trying to pass or merge onto the highway due to its higher speeds. 

There is also a 256 horsepower turbocharged version that was tested and was able to provide much quicker acceleration. Both engine types come with a six speed automatic transmission and all wheel drive. But you don’t necessarily need to be the one driving the vehicle to have a good time, simply being the passenger will also be good enough. It handles the roads pretty well and has the overall ride quality of crossovers that cost twice as much – this is what makes Mazda stand out from its competitors as well as the car’s ability to perform the following: 

• Pavement imperfections are isolated 
• Road noise is minimal
• The damping is neither stiff nor floaty 

Towing and Payload Capability

Although it isn’t much, the 2024 CX-5 has towing capabilities of up to 2000 pounds, but it is more than some of its competitors can tow. The larger CX-30 can tow up to 3500 pounds, but that’s only when it is equipped with a turbo engine (which is optional). Otherwise, it has the same towing capabilities of the CX-5.  

Fuel Economy and Real World MPG

The CX-5 comes in 2 engine options and therefore has 2 fuel economy ratings. The first engine option is the 2.5L (base engine) which makes 24 MPG city and 30 MPG highway. The more powerful engine option – turbocharged – is rated at 22 MPG city and 27 MPG highway. 

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Being in the interior of the top model for this car will definitely make you feel like top class and have you confused whether you’re in an Audi, Mercedes, or Mazda – believe it or not. This is thanks to the first-rate materials (high quality) and amazing layout. For the driver, the floor hinged accelerator pedal feels a whole lot better than the more traditional version that is suspended on the floor and the well crafted steering wheel is set directly in front (not to the side at a slight angle) to make for an optimal driving experience. The front seat armrests are also the same height for increased comfort. 

In terms of cargo, the CX-5 can hold 9 carry on suitcases behind its rear and the storage bay does see the benefit of having a completely flat load floor. There are several smaller spaces in the cabin as well, to store items such as smartphones and other small items. And just to make things more interesting, the center console has a deep tray at the front (where you can also store more things) and a useful bin with a removable shelf.  

Infotainment and Connectivity

Every model comes equipped with a 10.3 inch infotainment display that is mainly used through a rotary controller and volume knob on the center console. The interface can be operated through voice commands and buttons on the steering wheel and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto also come standard across the board. Mazda also has their own feature called Mazda Connected Services which includes access to remote vehicle functions via a smartphone app and a subscription based Wi-Fi hotspot – that is also available for this model. 

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

The CX-5 comes chalk full of standard safety technology features and some optional features as well. Key safety features include: 

• Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection 
• Standard lane departure warning and lane keeping assist
• Standard adaptive cruise control 

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Interestingly enough, Kia and Hyundai both offer better warranty coverage than Mazda and some other companies offer complimentary maintenance. Below is a list of coverages Mazda offers: 

• Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles 
• Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles 
• No complimentary scheduled maintenance