The Mazda CX-5 is a fantastic small SUV that provides driving thrills, despite not being the most exciting segment. In 2023, we saw the birth of the Mazda CX-50, which is a compact SUV that was very similar to the CX-5.
Although there are differences between the two vehicles, they fill the same spot in Mazda’s lineup. We don’t know if the CX-5 will be making a comeback, but we don’t anticipate any major changes.
2023 Mazda CX-5 Review
We expect that the 2024 Mazda CX-5 will use the same formula as the CX-5 if it returns. Although the CX-5 isn’t as good as its rivals in legroom or cargo space, it still has the best performance for a reasonable price. Edmunds editors have rated the CX-5 as the “best-handling small crossover.” The 2023 standardization of all-wheel drive only increases its appeal. Although the base engine produces 187 horsepower, the turbocharged version makes this car a fun and exciting SUV.
The Mazda CX-5 has a nice interior and comfortable riding quality. The Mazda CX-5 is an excellent choice if you are looking for a daily driver that offers more space than a sedan and at a reasonable price.
Rumors suggest that the Mazda CX-5 could be discontinued, as it is part of the second generation. Mazda’s compact SUV lineup has seen competition since the introduction of the CX-50. Mazda did the same with the CX-3 when the CX-30 was introduced. Although the CX-5 is possibly discontinued, no confirmation has been made. We expect the CX-5 to return in 2024 as a carryover model.
Exterior
The 2024 CX-5’s exterior design will be the same as the one currently on sale. It has a sleek, sporty design that makes the SUV look more expensive. The CX-5’s front has slim headlights, which lead to a shield-shaped grille. A slim rectangular air intake is featured on the smooth front fascia. The CX-5’s sides have slim body cladding and a prominent line connecting the headlights to the taillights. There is also a small rear spoiler. The SUV’s rear ends feature triangular taillights and dual exhaust outlets. There is also a round liftgate.
The current CX-5 interior design is a bit too upscale. For 2024, we don’t anticipate any major changes. The dashboard is simple in design and rises as it reaches its destination, the instrument cluster. The dashboard’s central display is located on the top of the dashboard and sits over squared-off air vents. For ease of use, the HVAC system’s physical controls are located low on the console’s center console. The CX-5 is different from other SUVs in its class. It has a screen controlled by a dial and some physical controls that are behind the shift knob.
Interior
Each CX-50 has a 10.2-inch display, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and two USB ports. The CX-5 comes with a 10-speaker sound system, a wireless charging station, a satellite radio, two additional USB ports, and navigation. These features will continue to be available on the 2024 CX-5.
Engine
Mazda offers two engines for the CX-5, and we expect them to stay around until the 2024 model year. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 187 horsepower and 186 pounds-feet of torque. You can also get a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. Standard features include an all-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission.
The CX-5’s standard safety features include forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. Safety features that are available include a driver alert monitor, a surround-view parking camera, parking sensors, and traffic sign recognition.
2023 Mazda CX-5 Price & Release Date
Mazda has not yet confirmed when 2024 CX-5 will be released. We expect that the CX-50 will be the same price as the current model if the SUV is reintroduced for the model year 2024. The price range for the SUV is currently between $27,975 and $40,925 (with delivery).
The Mazda CX-50 competes against the Honda CR-V and Kia Sportage as well as the Volkswagen Tiguan, Hyundai Hyundai Tucson, Nissan Rogue (small SUV), Mazda CX-50, Subaru Forster, Toyota RAV4 (large SUV)