2025 Mazda CX-5 Review: Mazda Doesn’t Mess With a Good Thing

2025 Mazda CX-5 Review: Mazda Doesn’t Mess With a Good Thing

The Mazda CX-5 has been making waves since 2017, which feels like a lifetime in the auto world. Despite the arrival of the new CX-50 in 2023, the CX-5 hasn’t lost its spark. With eight trims to choose from and two lively four-cylinder engines – one being a turbocharged powerhouse – this compact SUV remains a top contender.

Sure, rivals like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4 might be the practical choice with more cargo volume, but the CX-5 still offers plenty of space for everyday needs. Plus, its engaging driving experience makes it an enticing option for anyone who wants to enjoy their time behind the wheel.

See our Mazda CX-5 guide below to discover what’s changed – and what hasn’t – on the 2025 model.

What’s New: 2025 CX-5 at a Glance

The value-priced CX-5 S trim returns to the lineup in 2025, giving you a budget-friendly base option, while the non-turbo Premium trim has been retired. If you’re eyeing the Carbon Edition, you’ll be happy to find that wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and phone charging are now standard features. Plus, the Premium Plus trim has stepped up its game with a surround-view camera and parking sensors. And just a heads up—every CX-5 now comes with USB-C inputs in the front seats for a modern touch.

Mazda CX-5 Engine, Transmission, and Driving Dynamics

The CX-5’s standard 187-horsepower four-cylinder engine surprises with its lively throttle response, making it feel quicker off the line and while zipping around town. However, you might find it a bit lacking at higher speeds, like when you’re trying to pass or merge onto the freeway. That’s where the 256-horsepower turbocharged version really shines, offering much quicker acceleration.

Both engines are paired with a responsive six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, so you don’t have to push the CX-5 to its limits to appreciate what it can do. It handles beautifully, with precise steering and composed cornering that make for an enjoyable Sunday drive. Plus, it comfortably absorbs rough roads, delivering a ride quality that rivals more expensive crossovers.

What’s really impressive is how it isolates pavement imperfections and keeps road noise to a minimum. The damping strikes a perfect balance—not too stiff, yet not floaty, either. When you hit those winding roads, the CX-5 comes alive. The electrically assisted steering gives you satisfying feedback, and the brake feel in the Signature model we tested was reassuring—responsive without being overly sensitive. It all adds up to a driving experience that stands out among its competitors.

CX-5 MPG Ratings: 2.5-Liter vs. 2.5 Turbo

The 2025 CX-5 comes standard with i-Activ AWD but offers two engine choices, each with its own fuel economy ratings. If you go for the base 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G engine, you’ll get up to a solid 26 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. On the flip side, the turbocharged variant of this 2.5-liter unit packs more power but comes in at 22 MPG city and 27 MPG highway. Ultimately, it’s about finding the CX-5 engine that best suits your driving style and preferences regarding performance versus efficiency.

Mazda CX-5 Towing Capacity

When properly equipped, the Mazda CX-5 can tow up to 2,000 pounds, which isn’t a high rating, but it’s an improvement over some of its competitors, namely the Honda CR-V and VW Tiguan. The CX-5’s more ruggedly styled compact crossover sibling – the CX-50 – can pull more, with up to a 3,500-pound tow rating. But that’s only when equipped with the available turbocharged engine. Otherwise, it can pull just as much as the more popular CX-5.

2025 Mazda CX-5 Pricing and Trims

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 price starts at $29,990, reaching $42,020 in the range-topping Turbo Signature trim. Additional packages and options are also available to tailor the CX-5’s features to your liking.

• CX-5 S: $29,990
• CX-5 Select: $31,320
• CX-5 Preferred: $32,670
• CX-5 Carbon Edition: $34,020
• CX-5 Premium Plus: $36,620
• CX-5 Carbon Turbo: $38,420
• CX-5 Turbo Premium: $39,220
• CX-5 Turbo Signature: $42,020

Which CX-5 Trim Would We Choose?

In our opinion, the Turbo Premium trim is the sweet spot for the CX-5. With a robust 256-horsepower turbocharged engine, it matches its athletic handling perfectly. The exterior looks sleek and sporty, featuring glossy black accents that really stand out. Inside, things get even more exciting with vibrant red accents and stitching that add a touch of flair. It’s a well-rounded choice that combines style and performance beautifully.

If you want the higher MPG ratings and lower running costs of the non-turbo 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G engine, we’d opt for either the CX-5 Carbon Edition or Preferred trim, depending on preference for exterior and interior color. The Carbon Edition is the only 2025 CX-5 trim level offering the combination of Polymetal Gray Metallic paint with a red leather interior. The Preferred provides a broader selection of interior and exterior color combinations if the Carbon Edition style isn’t for you.

CX-5 Interior Features, Fit, and Finish

Step inside the top-tier CX-5 models, and you might feel like you’ve been whisked away to a luxury SUV – it’s that upscale. The quality materials and thoughtful design create an inviting atmosphere. Motorists will appreciate that the steering wheel is perfectly aligned right in front of you, not angled awkwardly like some of the CX-5’s less-driver-centric competitors. Plus, the front-seat armrests utilize soft-touch materials, maximizing comfort.

The rear seating is fairly roomy for adults but not exactly spacious. On the bright side, the rear cargo load floor is completely flat, making loading and unloading your gear a breeze.

The Mazda Infotainment System Inside the CX-5

A 10.25-inch infotainment display is well-positioned high atop the center of the dashboard in every 2025 CX-5. It enables you to easily navigate your way through settings and functions using a rotary controller and a volume knob right on the center console. You also have the option to use buttons on the steering wheel and voice commands for added convenience. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay come standard, making it simple to stay connected. The CX-5 cockpit keeps you plugged in and in control.

Standard i-Activsense Driver-Assist and Safety Technologies

Advanced safety comes standard on every 2025 Mazda CX-5.

• Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go
• Blind Spot Monitoring
• Lane Departure Warning System
• Lane-Keep Assist
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert
• Adaptive Front Lighting System
• High Beam Control
• Smart Brake Support – Forward

Looking for even more driver-assistance tech when upgrading to a CX-5? Then see the following available features on the 2025 models:

• Traffic Sign Recognition System
• 360-Degree View Monitor
• Parking Sensors
• Driver Attention Alert
• Smart Brake Support – Reverse

Will There Be a 2026 Mazda CX-5 Redesign?

A reimagined third-generation Mazda CX-5 is expected for the 2026 model year, or 2027 at the latest. It’s due to receive a complete redesign, including the introduction of a Mazda-developed hybrid powertrain option, differentiating it from the Toyota-sourced unit powering the new CX-50 Hybrid model we’ve covered.

Stay tuned to MazdaMotoring for more details on the changes coming to the CX-5 and the debut of a first-ever CX-5 Hybrid.