2018 Mazda CX-5 Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

Even among the dozens of vehicles categorized as compact SUVs in the American market, the 2018 Mazda CX-5 is a standout in a sea of crossovers. Industry experts and drivers alike rank it among the best small family SUVs you can buy. Here's what makes the Mazda CX-5 so special.

What's New for 2018?

With a complete redesign in 2017, the 2018 Mazda CX-5 sees few changes this model year. Perhaps the biggest news for eco-conscious drivers is the introduction of the diesel version of this crossover, one of just three in the compact SUV segment. Drivers who choose the diesel CX-5 can expect to get 70 percent more torque and 40 percent better gas mileage.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2018 Mazda CX-5 – The Pros

1. Incredibly Fun to Drive

One of the best reasons to recommend the Mazda CX-5 is its dynamic driving style with sports-car-like handling. It's equipped with just one engine, a 2.5-L 4-cylinder engine that produces 187 horsepower, offering more power than most other SUVs in this segment. Experts report it handles like a small car and provides a smooth, sharp ride.

2. Above-Average Fuel Economy

Even with the power of the 2018 Mazda CX-5, you'll still stand to save money at the pump. This crossover gets an estimated 24 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway with the front-wheel-drive version and 23 city/30 highway for the all-wheel-drive model.

3. Ergonomic Cabin Design

The refined style of the CX-5's interior includes carefully positioned controls mirroring the driver's stance along with supportive, cushioned seats that keep you feeling good even on long journeys. In fact, the second row of seats even reclines on all trims of the 2018 Mazda CX-5.

4. Impressive Active Safety Features

2018 Mazda CX-5 drivers can take advantage of a comprehensive array of high-tech driver assistance features. The base model comes standard with a rearview camera and low-speed automatic braking, which prevents collisions at up to 18 miles per hour by automatically applying the brakes when hazards are detected. Higher trims come standard with rear cross-traffic alert and blind spot monitoring. Optional features include lane departure warning and lane keep assist, smart headlights, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and a high-speed version of the automatic braking system.

5. Smart Head-up Display

Mazda drivers who choose the Grand Touring version of the CX-5 can benefit from an exciting class-exclusive feature. The head-up display automatically recognizes traffic signs and displays important information such as speed limits and work zones at the bottom of the windshield for easy visibility without the driver removing eyes from the road.

6. Refined Interior Comfort

Mazda took cues from luxury automakers like Audi when designing the inside of the 2018 CX-5. Drivers will be impressed by the combination of the latest technology, such as a Bluetooth-enabled touchscreen and push-button start, with attractive soft-touch materials and a clean, sophisticated design with driver ease in mind.

7. Excellent Value

With the 2018 Mazda CX-5, the automaker crams a generous array of features and superior quality into an SUV with an affordable price point. Drivers who want to get the most for their money when shopping for a crossover will be pleasantly surprised by the CX-5's offerings.

8. Great Safety Scores

Mazda received the highest possible crash test ratings in all five categories from the Insurance Institute on Highway Safety (IIHS). In fact, it received the agency's highest designation of Top Safety Pick+. It was not reviewed by the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration.

9. Predictive i-ACTIV All-Wheel Drive

This smart available features actually automatically switches to all-wheel drive when needed by monitoring weather and road conditions as well as the driver's throttle input and braking patterns. What's more, you'll never even notice the seamless adjustments happening under the hood to keep you safe.

10. SKYACTIV-VEHICLE DYNAMICS with G-Vectoring Control

This proprietary system developed by Mazda engineers prevents drivers from getting fatigued on long drives, whether you're headed out for a road trip or simply facing a long daily commute. The system automatically adjusts power delivery and shifts vehicle weight when you're making a turn in order to help the SUV move more efficiently. The effects of this system are subtle but powerful, allowing for more precise steering and optimal driver control designed to help you feel truly at one with your vehicle.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2018 Mazda CX-5 – The Cons

1. Lacking Interior Space

The 2018 Mazda CX-5 is smaller inside than most of its competitors. While it technically seats five, only two adults would truly be comfortable in the backseat. Cargo space is just average; you'll find 30.9 cubic feet of space behind the rear seat and 59.6 cubic feet when you fold down the convenient 40/20/40 split second row.

2. No Smartphone Connectivity

Smartphone syncing capabilities with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay are a standard on many new cars in this class, but the 2018 Mazda CX-5 offers neither of these systems even on its highest trim.

3. Average Predicted Reliability

Many of the CX-5's competitors, including the Honda CR-V, scored higher in the J.D. Power and Associates Vehicle Dependability Study. Several models also have better warranties than the three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty offered by Mazda.

How it Stacks up to the Competition?

Though it's not mentioned as often as the big names in this market, the Mazda CX-5 is ranked behind only the Honda CR-V in the U.S. News and World Report's ranking of compact crossovers. It also received a coveted Editors' Choice award from Car and Driver magazine and is designated as an Edmund's top-rated SUV.

Conclusion

The 2018 Mazda CX-5 deserves to get more attention for its combination of performance, style, and comfort. In fact, U.S. News and World Report named Mazda as its best overall brand last year. If you're shopping for a compact SUV this year, definitely add this crossover to your short list. You'll love the refined interior, impressive features, and thorough attention to detail in this crossover.