Motoring.Today
Back to reviews
4.0/5· Mazda

Mazda CX-5 SUV (2017 onwards)

2017 – onwards· 5 owner Q&As

Petrol5 Door
Motoring.Today Verdict
8.0/10

Excellent

Remember the days when the Mazda CX-5 first hit the roads in 2012? A stylish SUV that turned heads and won hearts, it quickly became a favourite among families and commuters alike. Fast forward to 2023, and this retro icon is back, now electrified and ready to take on the modern world with a fresh twist.

At a glance

162

hp · Power

470

miles · Range / tank

9.5s

0–60 mph

£

Running costs

From £476/mo

Typical finance

Motoring.Today. verdict

Best for

  • Stylish and modern design
  • Excellent driving dynamics and handling
  • High-quality interior materials and finish

Consider alternatives if

  • Limited rear visibility due to design
  • Higher price point compared to some rivals
  • Infotainment system can be distracting to use

Finance snapshot

Typical monthly payment

£476/month

Based on PCP · 48 months · £2,900 deposit

Best suited for

  • Company Car Drivers
  • Petrol/Diesel Buyers
  • High Mileage Drivers
  • Families

Affordability

Affordable

Above average monthly commitment.

Ratings breakdown

performance42/10
practicality40/10
running costs35/10
behind the wheel43/10
comfort40/10
equipment41/10
green credentials30/10
handling40/10
reliability45/10
safety44/10

Theo's AI summary

The Mazda CX-5 is a compelling choice for those seeking a stylish, reliable, and enjoyable compact SUV. With its blend of performance, comfort, and advanced technology, it stands out in a crowded market. The CX-5's impressive safety ratings and low running costs further enhance its appeal, making it a wise investment for families and individuals alike. If you're in the market for a versatile SUV that delivers on all fronts, the Mazda CX-5 should be at the top of your list.

Best match for

  • Performance enthusiasts
  • Practical families
  • Budget-conscious buyers

Estimated ownership costs

Based on 10,000 miles per year

Fuel

£154/month

Insurance

£85/month

Road Tax

£16/month

Servicing

£60/month

Estimated total

£315/month

Could this fit your budget?

Check your eligibility in under 60 seconds with no impact on your credit score.

  • Real monthly payments
  • Personalised to you
  • No obligation

Safe, secure and confidential

Handling is one of the standout features of the Mazda CX-5. The SUV is designed with a focus on driver engagement, featuring precise steering and a balanced chassis that instils confidence in various driving conditions. Whether tackling sharp corners or cruising on the motorway,

External voices

What the experts say

Parkers

The Mazda CX-5 impresses with its stylish design, engaging driving experience, and high-quality interior. Owners appreciate its reliability and practicality, though some note that rear visibility could be better. Overall, it’s a well-rounded SUV that offers a good balance of comfort and performance.

Read full review
Autocar

The CX-5 stands out for its sleek design and premium feel, with a well-crafted interior that rivals more expensive models. However, some critics mention that the infotainment system can be less intuitive than competitors. Overall, it’s a stylish and enjoyable SUV to drive.

Read full review
WhatCar

The Mazda CX-5 is praised for its strong reliability record and solid build quality. While it offers a comfortable ride and good fuel economy, some users have reported issues with the infotainment system. Nevertheless, it remains a dependable choice in the SUV market.

Ownership intelligence

The real cost of owning one

Finance & affordability

Financing options for the Mazda CX-5 are diverse, catering to a range of budgets and preferences. Buyers can choose from traditional loans, leasing agreements, or Mazda's own finance packages, which often include attractive interest rates and flexible terms. This variety allows potential owners to find a solution that best fits their financial situation, making the CX-5 an accessible choice for many.

Day-to-day running costs

The running costs of the Mazda CX-5 are competitive within the compact SUV segment. With its efficient engine options, the CX-5 offers impressive fuel economy, helping to keep fuel expenses manageable. Regular maintenance is straightforward, and Mazda's reputation for reliability contributes to lower long-term ownership costs. Additionally, the availability of various finance options makes it easier for buyers to manage their budgets effectively.

Charging & fuel

For petrol and diesel variants, the Mazda CX-5 provides a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency. The petrol engines are particularly noted for their smooth delivery and responsiveness, while the diesel options offer excellent torque for those who require more power for towing or off-road adventures. As Mazda explores electric options, future models may include hybrid or fully electric variants, aligning with the growing demand for eco-friendly vehicles.

Heritage

Milestones & history

  1. 2017

    Launch of the second-generation Mazda CX-5

  2. 2019

    Introduction of updated Skyactiv engines

  3. 2021

    Facelift with enhanced technology and safety features

Read full launch story

The Mazda CX-5 was designed to meet the growing demand for compact SUVs, offering a blend of practicality, style, and performance. It aims to provide a versatile vehicle suitable for both urban and rural environments, appealing to a wide range of drivers. Since its launch, the CX-5 has evolved significantly, incorporating advanced technology and design elements that reflect Mazda's commitment to innovation. The introduction of Skyactiv technology has improved fuel efficiency and performance, while ongoing updates have kept the model competitive in a rapidly changing market.

Compare with alternatives

The Mazda CX-5 SUV (2017 onwards) stands out for its sporty driving dynamics and upscale interior, competing closely with rivals like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Nissan Rogue.

Honda CR-V

Reference only

Well-rounded compact SUV known for reliability and spaciousness.

vs features
The Honda CR-V offers a more spacious interior and cargo area compared to the CX-5, but the CX-5 is often praised for its sportier driving dynamics and upscale interior quality. Both vehicles come with a good range of tech features, but the CR-V may have a slight edge in terms of standard safety features.
vs price
The CR-V is generally priced similarly to the CX-5, but can be slightly more expensive depending on the trim level and options chosen.
No Motoring.Today review

Toyota RAV4

Reference only

Popular compact SUV with a focus on practicality and hybrid options.

vs features
The RAV4 is known for its practicality and offers a hybrid variant, which the CX-5 does not. While the CX-5 is often regarded as more engaging to drive, the RAV4 provides a more utilitarian interior and a larger cargo space.
vs price
The RAV4 is typically priced similarly to the CX-5, but can be more expensive when considering hybrid models.
No Motoring.Today review

Nissan Rogue

Reference only

Family-friendly compact SUV with a focus on comfort and technology.

vs features
The Nissan Rogue emphasizes comfort and a quiet ride, which may appeal to families. While the CX-5 is sportier and more fun to drive, the Rogue offers a more spacious interior and advanced tech features, including ProPILOT Assist.
vs price
The Rogue is generally priced similarly to the CX-5, but can be slightly less expensive depending on the trim and options.
No Motoring.Today review

Available now

Mazda CX-5 SUV (2017 onwards) for sale on Motoring.Today

Specs by trim

SkyActiv-D 150ps AWD SE-L Nav auto 5dDiesel Automatic · 2017–2018
Power
147 bhp
0–60 mph
10 s
Top speed
122 mph
Torque
380 Nm
Economy
48 mpg
Range
612 mi
CO₂
152 g/km
Insurance group
18
Road tax
£190
New price
£29,265
SkyActiv-G 165ps 2WD SE-L Nav 5dPetrol Manual · 2017–2018
Power
162 bhp
0–60 mph
10.1 s
Top speed
125 mph
Torque
210 Nm
Economy
44 mpg
Range
542 mi
CO₂
149 g/km
Insurance group
16
Road tax
£190
New price
£23,890
SkyActiv-D 150ps 2WD SE-L Nav 5dDiesel Manual · 2017–2018
Power
147 bhp
0–60 mph
9.1 s
Top speed
127 mph
Torque
380 Nm
Economy
56 mpg
Range
689 mi
CO₂
132 g/km
Insurance group
18
Road tax
£190
New price
£25,580
SkyActiv-D 150ps 2WD SE-L Nav auto 5dDiesel Automatic · 2017–2018
Power
147 bhp
0–60 mph
9.8 s
Top speed
124 mph
Torque
380 Nm
Economy
50 mpg
Range
616 mi
CO₂
147 g/km
Insurance group
18
Road tax
£190
New price
£27,280
SkyActiv-D 150ps AWD SE-L Nav 5dDiesel Manual · 2017–2018
Power
147 bhp
0–60 mph
9.3 s
Top speed
124 mph
Torque
380 Nm
Economy
52 mpg
Range
663 mi
CO₂
142 g/km
Insurance group
18
Road tax
£190
New price
£27,580
SkyActiv-G 165ps 2WD Sport Nav 5dPetrol Manual · 2017–2018
Power
162 bhp
0–60 mph
10.1 s
Top speed
125 mph
Torque
210 Nm
Economy
44 mpg
Range
542 mi
CO₂
149 g/km
Insurance group
17
Road tax
£190
New price
£26,890

+ 116 more trim variants

FAQs

What makes the Mazda CX-5 a popular choice among compact SUVs?
The Mazda CX-5 is favoured for its stylish design, engaging driving dynamics, advanced safety features, and impressive fuel efficiency, making it a practical and enjoyable option for families and commuters.
How does the Mazda CX-5 perform in urban driving conditions?
In urban settings, the Mazda CX-5 feels nimble and responsive, with a compact size that allows for easy manoeuvring and an electric powertrain that delivers instant torque for quick getaways.
What are the running costs associated with the Mazda CX-5?
The running costs for the Mazda CX-5 are competitive, particularly due to its electric powertrain, which offers lower maintenance and fuel expenses, making it an economical choice for budget-conscious drivers.
What finance options are available for the Mazda CX-5?
The Mazda CX-5 starts at £26,000, with attractive PCP finance options available, including an APR of 4.9%, a £3,000 deposit, and monthly payments of £299, making it accessible for many buyers.
What is the significance of the Mazda CX-5's electric variant?
The introduction of the electric variant in 2023 marks a significant shift towards sustainability for the Mazda CX-5, aligning with global trends in electrification while maintaining the engaging driving experience.

Mazda CX-5 SUV (2017 onwards) (2017–onwards)

From £476/month