The compact SUV market is crowded, but Mazda continues proving why the CX-5 deserves your attention. With thoughtful updates for 2025, this popular crossover maintains its reputation for delivering more driving enjoyment than most competitors while keeping practical family needs in focus.
What’s Actually New for 2025
The Return of Budget-Friendly Options
Good news for cost-conscious buyers: Mazda brought back the entry-level 2.5 S trim for 2025, starting around $28,770. This move makes the CX-5 more accessible while still delivering the refined experience Mazda is known for. You’re getting standard all-wheel drive, a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto without breaking the bank.
The biggest practical upgrade affects every trim level – all 2025 models now feature USB-C ports in the front seats. Finally, no more hunting for adapters when your phone needs charging during road trips.
Premium Plus Gets Smarter
If you’re considering the 2.5 S Premium Plus, you’ll appreciate the new 360-degree camera system and front/rear parking sensors. These features make tight parking spots and crowded grocery store lots much less stressful, especially valuable for families juggling car seats and shopping bags.
Two Engines, Two Different Personalities
The Practical Choice: Base 2.5-Liter Engine
Most CX-5 models use a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower. Don’t let the modest power figure fool you – this engine feels more responsive than its numbers suggest, particularly around town. It delivers solid fuel economy at 26 city/31 highway mpg, making it ideal for daily commuting and weekend errands.
However, highway merging and passing require some patience and planning. If you frequently drive on interstates or carry heavy loads, you might find yourself wanting more power.
The Enthusiast Pick: Turbo Power
Step up to any turbo trim and you get a completely different driving experience. The turbocharged 2.5-liter engine delivers 227 horsepower on regular gas or 256 horsepower with premium fuel. This extra power transforms the CX-5 from adequate to genuinely quick, hitting 60 mph in about 6.2 seconds.
The turbo models sacrifice some fuel economy (22 city/27 highway mpg) but gain the confidence to handle any driving situation without hesitation.
Eight Trim Levels: Finding Your Sweet Spot
Budget-Minded: 2.5 S Through S Select
The base 2.5 S includes impressive standard equipment like LED headlights, cloth seats, and comprehensive safety features. The S Select adds leatherette upholstery and heated front seats – worthwhile upgrades for most buyers in colder climates.
Mainstream Appeal: S Preferred and Carbon Edition
The S Preferred strikes an excellent balance with features like a power liftgate and 18-inch wheels. The Carbon Edition offers unique Polymetal Gray paint and sporty black accents for those wanting distinctive styling.
Luxury Territory: Premium Plus and Turbo Trims
Premium Plus models include heated steering wheels, ventilated front seats, and that helpful 360-degree camera system. The turbo trims add performance with sport-tuned suspensions and upgraded brakes, plus distinctive interior touches like red stitching on the Turbo Premium.
The flagship Turbo Signature rivals luxury SUVs with Nappa leather seats, genuine wood trim, and premium interior lighting.
Driving Experience That Stands Apart
Why CX-5 Owners Keep Coming Back
After eight years in its current generation, the CX-5 still feels fresh to drive. The steering provides genuine feedback, something increasingly rare in the SUV world. Body roll stays controlled through corners, and the suspension strikes an ideal balance between comfort and engagement.
This isn’t just automotive journalism speak – real owners consistently praise how the CX-5 makes everyday driving more enjoyable compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4.
Practical Performance
Standard all-wheel drive gives confidence in various weather conditions without hurting fuel economy significantly. The system automatically sends power where it’s needed, so you’re covered whether facing snow, rain, or gravel roads.
Towing capacity reaches 2,000 pounds with the turbo engine, adequate for small trailers or boats but not competitive with truck-based SUVs.
Interior Quality That Punches Above Its Price
Materials and Build Quality
Step inside any CX-5 and you’ll immediately notice the attention to detail. Even base models feature soft-touch materials and precise assembly that feels more expensive than the price suggests. Upper trims rival luxury vehicles with real leather and wood trim.
The minimalist design philosophy keeps controls intuitive while maintaining an upscale appearance. Physical knobs and buttons handle climate controls, avoiding the frustrating touchscreen-only approach some manufacturers use.
Space Realities
The CX-5 accommodates five adults reasonably well, with supportive front seats and adequate rear-seat room for most passengers. However, cargo space trails some competitors at 29.1 cubic feet behind the rear seats.
This limitation affects families needing maximum storage for sports equipment, large shopping trips, or vacation luggage. Consider your real-world needs carefully if cargo capacity ranks high on your priority list.
Technology That Works
Infotainment Done Right
The 10.25-inch display handles most functions smoothly, and Mazda’s rotary controller knob makes menu navigation safer while driving. Wireless charging appears on upper trims, though all models now include those essential USB-C ports.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration works reliably, and the available premium sound system delivers impressive audio quality for music lovers.
Safety Features Standard
Every CX-5 includes comprehensive active safety features: automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alerts, and adaptive cruise control. These systems work unobtrusively, providing protection without constant false alarms.
Ownership Considerations
Reliability and Maintenance
Current-generation CX-5 models have proven reliable, with owner satisfaction ratings consistently above average. Mazda’s warranty coverage (3 years/36,000 miles basic, 5 years/60,000 miles powertrain) provides reasonable protection.
Resale Value Strength
CX-5 resale values consistently outperform the compact SUV average, meaning lower long-term ownership costs. This strength reflects the model’s reputation for quality and desirability in the used car market.
Bottom Line: Still a Smart Choice
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 proves that thoughtful evolution can be more valuable than revolutionary change. While competitors offer newer designs or more cargo space, the CX-5 continues delivering an engaging driving experience wrapped in quality materials at competitive prices.
The reintroduced base S trim makes the CX-5 accessible to more buyers, while turbo models provide genuine performance for enthusiasts. Standard all-wheel drive, comprehensive safety features, and impressive build quality justify serious consideration from any compact SUV shopper.