The 2013 Mazda CX-5 got high marks from reviewers and test drivers for its handling, manual transmission and excellent fuel economy. This affordable compact SUV is also good at getting out of tight spots and is a pleasure to drive.
The one complaint was that the SUV could use a bit more power under the hood.
The CX-5 is a vehicle for those who want an affordable, responsive, and fuel efficient SUV.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: SUV | Base Price: $20,995.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.8 gallons (56 l) | MPG: 26 city / 35 hwy |
| Length: 179.3 in. (455.4 cm) | Wheel Base: 106.3 in. (270 cm) |
| Height: 65.7 in. (166.8 cm) | Width: 72.4 in. (183.8 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 3208 lbs (1455 kg) | Ground Clearance: 8.5 in. (21.6 cm) |
| Luggage Capacity: 34.1 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 people |
| Engine: 2.0L DOHC 4 Cylinder | Compression Ratio: 13.0: 1 |
| Horsepower: 155 HP | Max RPM: 6000 RPM |
| Torque: 150 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed SKYACTIV Manual |
| Option:Touring | MSRP: $23,895; MPG: 26 city / 32 hwy |
| Option:Grand Touring | MSRP: $27,045; MPG: 26 city / 32 hwy |
Engine
The 2013 CX-5 has three trims, the Sport, the Touring and the Grand Touring. All of them have a 2.0 liter, four cylinder SkyActiv gas engine that delivers 155 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 150 lbs-ft of torque. The engine is matched to a six speed manual transmission, you can also opt for a six speed automatic transmission.
Performance
Test drivers were pleasantly shocked by the CX-5’s agility. To them, it felt very much like the Mazda’s MX-5 Miata, which, after all, is a sports car. The transmission was smooth, the SUV gives the feeling that it’s raring to go, and it gets superior fuel economy.
The CX-5 delivers an impressive 26 miles per gallon in the city and 32 mile per gallon on the highway, with the all wheel drive models averaging 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. Even better than this, according to test drivers, the CX-5’s steering is good and tight and the brakes are strong, which is unusual for a compact SUV.
Exterior
Another aspect of the SUV that received high praise was the exterior, many reviewers found it sporty and stylish.
Interior
Many found the CX-5’s front seats roomy enough, but the back seats could be cramped for three adults. The steering wheel tilts and telescopes for the driver’s comfort and the seats are cozy. They are upholstered in cloth, made of high quality.
However, reviewers found the features, even with the USB port, push button start, cruise and audio controls, optional navigation system and Bluetooth, to be underwhelming. Other rivals just has a little more than the CX-5 when it comes to features. The CX-5 offers 34.1 cubic feet for cargo when the rear seats are up and 65 cubic feet when the rear seas are folded, which makes it competitive with other SUVs of its type.
Safety
The CX-5 was a top safety pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, though the federal government hasn’t tested it as yet. Among the safety features are driver and passenger air bags, 4 wheel disc brakes, brake assist, electronic stability control and integrated turn signal mirrors.
Reliability
The Mazda CX-5 has a three year or 36,000 mile warranty, which is typical for this car. It also has a five year or 60,000 mile powertrain warranty. The driver can use the roadside assistance feature for three years or 36,000 miles, twenty-four hours a day.
Pros
Reviewers loved the way this SUV handles and its easy manual transmission. They also appreciate the cargo space. They claim the Mazda CX-5 is a really fun car to drive.
Cons
The engine, according to test drivers, could use more power and the second row of seats are too close a fit for three adults, though comfortable for two. Reviewers also found the features uninspiring.
Smaller than the CX-9, the Mazda CX-5 is the least priced and gets the best gas mileage among the others that include the Nissan Rogue (MSRP $22,310; 23 city / 28 hwy), Honda CRV (MSRP $22,495; 23 city / 31 hwy), and the RAV4 of Toyota (MSRP $22,650; 22 city / 28 hwy).
Overall Rating
77 out of 100
What others say:
“The Mazda CX-5 is the first all-new crossover from the “zoom-zoom” company in several years.”Car Connection
“CX-5 feels more like a small car on the road than a small SUV. We mean that in the best possible sense. The Sport model lives up to its name with nicely weighted and accurate steering. Grand Tourings, especially with AWD, feel a bit heavier on their feet, but remain quite nimble and fun-to-drive. Body lean is kept in check, and any CX-5 imparts confidence on its driver. Braking action is smooth and strong.”Consumer Guide
“The 2012 Mazda CX-5 is Mazda’s new compact SUV, powered by Mazda’s SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter gasoline engine…”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports
“The all-new 2013 Mazda CX-5 is destined to serve as a bellwether vehicle for the automaker. Introducing both the next generation of its corporate styling language and a comprehensive array of weight-saving, efficiency-enhancing Skyactiv technologies, this 5-passenger compact SUV promises an even greater level of Zoom-Zoom appeal.”KBB
“With its fuel-efficient engine, engaging driving experience and daring styling, the 2013 Mazda CX-5 is a good pick for those seeking a sporty yet thrifty crossover SUV.”Edmunds
