The 2015 Mazda CX-5 lasts around 250,000 miles with only some minor windshield and stereo system issues. At $12,625 to $16,000, it’s cheaper than many other compact SUVs while offering a more upscale interior.
Is the 2015 Mazda CX-5 a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 8/10 – 2015 is a great year for the Mazda CX-5 since it offers efficient engines with great technology for its age. Owner reviews praise the comfortable interior, smooth engine, along with the sporty suspension.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are pleasant for a budget-friendly small SUV, the seats are very comfortable, cargo space is average as well.
- Reliability 8/10 – There are no major problems reported with the 2015 Mazda CX-5. Avoid models from 2014 & 2016 which have some electrical issues. We recommend 2015, as well as 2017–2021 which are more reliable.
- Performance 7/10 – Performance is average from both 4-cylinder engines, while the responsive steering makes it feel sportier.
- Safety 9/10 – The 2015 CX-5 is very safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. Optional safety features include a rearview camera along with collision mitigation, which will automatically brake to prevent an accident.
- Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is great at up to 29 MPG giving owners 429 miles of range from the 14.8 gallon tank. Gas costs are $42 lower than average at $210 per month.
- Value 8/10 – The Mazda CX-5 is cheaper than many other compact SUVs while offering a lot of good features for the money, making it a great value.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Mazda CX-5?
- Consumer Reports says the Mazda CX-5 offers a sporty driving experience for a small SUV with great owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds gives the CX-5 a 3.9/5 praising the fuel-efficient engine choices, but doesn’t like the weak base motor.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the CX-5 a 4.6/5 enjoying the affordable ownership costs, but owners don’t like the low towing capacity.
What Common Problems Does the 2015 Mazda CX-5 Have?
Common problems found on the 2015 Mazda CX-5 include cracked windshields, Bluetooth connectivity issues, and shifting roughly between gears. Overall, these problems are average for a compact SUV from 2015, with similar repair costs as well.
Cracked windshields are a common problem reported by owners on the 2015 Mazda CX-5. The original windshields are more prone to cracking than on other compact SUVs due to some manufacturing defects. Changing out the windshield for around $500 fixes the problem if it cracks.
Bluetooth connectivity issues show up on some CX-5 models in the first 1,000 miles. There’s a software update dealerships can install on the stereo system, which improves the reliability of the Bluetooth system. Installing the software is easy, many dealerships install them for free, while others charge about $40.
Shifting roughly between gears is a rare problem mentioned by a few owners at around 75,000 miles. There are some issues with the synchro rings which lead to the transmission feeling rough as it changes gears. Some owners rebuild the transmission for around $1,200, while others replace it, which costs $3,000.
There are 4 recalls on the 2015 Mazda CX-5, which is average compared to other SUVs from the same year. The most serious recall covers the fuel filler pipe, which can rupture in the event of a crash. Mazda will replace the pipe on affected models for free. Other recalls cover the rear liftgate, as well as an under-torqued bolt.
How Long Will the 2015 Mazda CX-5 Last?
A well-maintained 2015 Mazda CX-5 should last around 250,000 miles, which is only about 50,000 miles less than the top-rated Toyota RAV4. Regular annual maintenance costs are lower than average according to data provided by Repair Pal at $432 per year.
Since nearly all 2015 Mazda CX-5 models on the market will have over 100,000 miles buyers should be prepared to replace the blower motor resistors for $125, the water pump costing $600, and the transmission mounts which cost $250.
It has been very reliable! No problems yet in the 4 years we have happily owned it. We have kept up on the routine maintenance and it continues to run smoothly.
The AWD is very good in snow and rain. The blind spot is terrible though, because the back windows are so small.
No major issues. The Bluetooth receiver often does not work properly and the radio will occasionally turn off and reboot. Zero mechanical issues.
Yes, it has been very reliable and no we haven't had any problems with our vehicle. We have many miles on the car and still no major issues.
I have had no issues. I haven't had any issues since buying it except for the regular maintenance as needed.
Yes - each time you pile into the vehicle for a quick road trip, the Mazda is always ready to go and consistent. There are no outstanding problems at all! In fact, the vehicle is also very sturdy.
The CS-5 has been very reliable. We have not had any problems with the vehicle. Of course, my husband makes sure it has all the scheduled maintenance
I have not experienced any problems with my Mazda CX-5. I purchased my vehicle in July of 2018. I haven't had any problems so far
How Is the Technology?
Entertainment technology is good in the 2015 Mazda CX-5 with an available touchscreen stereo system, Bluetooth, along with a nice stereo system. Safety technology is good as well with an optional rearview camera, and a forward collision warning system which will automatically brake.
Is the 2015 Mazda CX-5 a Good Value?
Yes, the 2015 Mazda CX-5 is a good value for a compact SUV since it has a nice interior along with dependable engines. Blue book prices range from $12,625 to $16,000, making it cheaper than a Honda CR-V or Subaru Forester. When new, the price range was $21,545 to $29,220. Depreciation is average for a small SUV, losing about 10% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Mazda CX-5?
There are three models of the Mazda CX-5 offered in 2015, from the base Sport model to the well-equipped Grand Touring.
Sport is the entry-level model with:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Power Windows & Locks
- Cruise Control
- 4-Speaker Stereo System With 3.5mm AUX
- Optional Bluetooth & Touchscreen
Touring is a step up, adding:
- More Powerful Engine
- Upgraded Cloth Seating
- Keyless Entry
- Rearview Camera
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- 6-Speaker Stereo System
Grand Touring is the most luxurious model which has:
- 19-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Leather Seating
- Heated Front Seats
- Dual-Zone Climate Control
- 9-Speaker Bose Stereo System
- Optional Collision Mitigation With Braking
What Engines Come In the Mazda CX-5?
- The base engine is an average 2.0L 4-cylinder which makes 155 horsepower while getting up to 29 MPG.
- A step up is the stronger 2.5L 4-cylinder which generates 184 horsepower at up to 27 MPG. Performance is okay taking 8.0 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH, however, the towing capacity is low at 2,000 pounds.
What Colors Does the Mazda CX-5 Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Mazda CX-5?
The Mazda CX-5 is a very comfortable compact SUV with seating for up to five people. The seats are very comfortable with supportive cushions.
Passenger room is good throughout the cabin with plenty of legroom to easily fit adults in the back seats.
How Much Storage Space Does the Mazda CX-5 Have?
Cargo space is great for an SUV of its size with enough space for 5-6 suitcases behind the back seats, and over 10 with the rear seats folded flat.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The first generation of the Mazda CX-5 was introduced in 2013, and replaced by the second generation in 2017.
2013: First year the Mazda CX-5 was offered as a brand new model.
2014: larger engine for Touring & Grand Touring, collision warning & mitigation system added.
2015: Keyless entry standard on Touring & Grand Touring models.
2016: Minor exterior styling changes, improved interior, better suspension, updated stereo system.
2017: Fully redesigned for the second generation with new exterior, interior, and technology.
2018: Blind spot monitoring standard, slightly more fuel efficient.
2019: More powerful engine added to Grand Touring Reserve & Signature, Apple CarPlay added, ventilated front seats, surround-view parking camera.
How Does the Mazda CX-5 Compare to the Competition?
The Mazda CX-5 is better than a lot of other compact SUVs. It offers a more upscale interior as well as powerful and reliable engines which earns our recommendation for shoppers.
The Toyota RAV4 is another small SUV available which costs about $3,000 more. Off-road performance is a bit better in the Toyota RAV4, while interior materials are much nicer in the Mazda CX-5. We recommend the Toyota RAV4 since they last a bit longer, although both are excellent choices.
The Subaru Forester is a competitor which is available for around $1,000 more. Standard all-wheel-drive is better in the Subaru Forester, however, the Mazda CX-5 has more technology available. We recommend the Mazda CX-5 since there are fewer engine problems compared to the Subaru Forester.
Do Owners Recommend the Mazda CX-5?
Yes. It is spacious enough to transport everything we need but still feels small and comfortable to drive. I am only 5'2' so bigger vehicles can feel overwhelming easily but I absolutely love this car.
Yes, it is excellent on gas and has great pickup speed. The truck space is okay, but the back lighting sucks and the blind spot is awful.
Yes, I purchased this vehicle for long work commutes through a major city. The size, fuel economy, and responsiveness are fantastic for the price.
Yes it is easy to drive and had plenty of room for our household. We haven't had any major issues with the vehicle.
Yes I like it very much. It handles well in the snow and rain. It is zippy. It has lasted a long time.
Yes! It drives smoothly and the sport mode is a great addition. The speaker system is also a highlight. Most importantly though, the optional safety features that can be put into the car proves an ingenious addition, especially for those parents who have a kid that’s begun to drive.
Yes, it has proven to be very reliable and we really enjoy driving the car. It's an easy vehicle to maneuver and operate
Reliable, economical on gas, great on acceleration. Powerful engine, great styling, love the interior and nice legroom