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 reviewMazda CX-5 SUV (2017 onwards)
2017 – onwards· 5 owner Q&As
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
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
£154/month
£85/month
£16/month
£60/month
Estimated total
£315/month
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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
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 reviewThe 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
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.
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.
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
2017
Launch of the second-generation Mazda CX-5
2019
Introduction of updated Skyactiv engines
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
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.
Toyota RAV4
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.
Nissan Rogue
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.
Available now
Mazda CX-5 SUV (2017 onwards) for sale on Motoring.Today
Gallery
(15)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.














