2017 Mazda CX-5 Review: Trustworthy Compact SUV With A Luxurious Interior & Great Safety Technology

Nov 24, 2022

The 2017 Mazda CX-5 lasts around 250,000 miles with only some minor brake noise and transmission vibrations reported by owners. At $17,375 to $19,825, it’s a great value for a comfortable and upscale compact SUV.

The Good

The interior is more luxurious than the competition, handling is responsive through turns and the cabin is very quiet.

The Bad

Rear visibility is poor with the small windows, the stereo system is somewhat difficult to use and there’s less cargo space than other compact SUVs.

Is the 2017 Mazda CX-5 a Good Used SUV?

Overall Rating 8/10 – 2017 is a good year for the Mazda CX-5 since it pairs good reliability with excellent technology, giving it a high overall score. Owner reviews praise the comfortable interior, sporty driving experience, as well as the stereo system.
Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are upscale for a small SUV, the seats are comfortable on long trips, although cargo space is lower than the competition.
Reliability 8/10 – There are no widespread complaints on the 2017 Mazda CX-5. Buyers should avoid models from 2014 & 2016, while 2017–2021 are much more reliable.
Performance 7/10 – Performance is similar to other compact SUVs from the 4-cylinder engine found in the CX-5, yet the responsive steering makes it more fun.
Safety 8/10 – The 2017 Mazda CX-5 is safe, earning 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests. There’s a standard rearview camera as well as low-speed automatic braking. Optional upgrades include lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, forward collision warning, as well as high-speed automatic braking.
Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is good at up to 27 MPG, giving 399 miles of range from the 14.8 gallon tank. Gas costs are $41 cheaper than average at $207 per month.
Value 8/10 – The 2017 CX-5 is more affordable than many competitors while still having nice features, making it a great value for shoppers on a budget.

Positive Owner Reviews

Hay P

The sport mode is really fun, best feature!

I love this car! Best one I have ever owned. The seats are comfy, and the interior is so sleek and clean. Love the trunk space. Drives smooth and the sport mode is super fun and useful:).

Lisa P

Easy to drive! Not to big or small! Fits my family of 4 easily with 2 teens.

I love how the dashboard is set up. Bose radio is awesome! I have heated leather seats which are nice in the winter months. Sunroof is great for the nice days! Taken it on a few long trips already! Only complaint is the seat is not comfortable for the long trips. I have to sit on a pillow for extra cushion.

Carrie S

Safety is important with my vehicles and this vehicle has great safety features including blind spot assistance and back up camera

Big enough for my family but small enough that it still maneuvers like a car

Lori D

Spend a few extra dollars and invest in the sunroof. It is completely worth it!

I have owned my Mazda cx-5 for over three years now and have never needed any emergency services other than a flat tire. The car is a smooth ride. I often get car sick and am able to ride in the back seat without getting ill. The car already comes with some nice standard settings. We also upgraded with a sunroof which I would highly recommend. My teenagers love the quality of the sound system and the navigation system is, well, easy to navigate. If I had to list one improvement, it would be the range of adjusting the seat. I just can't quite get it to that perfect way I like to drive that I have found with other vehicles. The passenger side also only has manual options for adjusting. This does not seem appropriate with all the other bells and whistles offered with this car. I have purchased close to 10 different car brands in my lifetime and Mazda is definitely in the top two. My next new car will definitely be another Mazda.

Preston A

The car has a huge trunk which is super nice.

I have a 2017 Mazda cx-5. I love this car so much. I get amazing gas miles and even better price to pay for gas only around 25 to fill up the whole tank. The car has Bluetooth and navigation. The car is very easy to drive, back up and park which is very important to me. The only thing that I don't like about this car is that the seats are cloth that is literally the only thing.

Laura P

Love driving my smaller SUV.

It is just a fun car to drive after driving a larger SUV for many years. I had been driving minivans prior to my last SUV's. So it is just fun to drive smaller with the sunroof down.

Meredith A

I think the paint job is beautiful. I love that the car feels luxury.

I love the way it handles, looks and the sleek interior. When I looked at all the small SUV?s on the market, the cx- 5 took the cake.

Patrick K

Mazda cx-5 review for 2017 model.

Have not had any issues so far. Great gas mileage for an SUV. The ride is really smooth and it feels less junky then Acuras. It is more affordable than say a Lexus which I greatly appreciate. I got some nice heated seats and it has a great audio system. It is white and able to be cleaned rather easily.

Negative Owner Reviews

Joan T

Lots of better cars out there, this is not a preferred car

Not comfortable or powerful, doesn't have any luxury feeling

Lauren G

Chipped paint and crazy computer.

I have had trouble with the paint chipping off and the computer system. The paint is red and while the year previous to mine had recalls on the paint, mine did not so they will not fix it. My console screen has had problems with constantly rebooting. I will be driving and suddenly the radio will go off and the whole system will reboot.

Ashley K

Good car for the price, but not the safest or nicest ride.

Brakes are not the best, seats are ok but not great. Car is beautiful but feels cheap when you drive it. Had a back reflector just pop off because of the cheap way it was installed. Overall a good car with good gas mileage but I am not too keen on purchasing another Mazda after this one.

Petunia T

A bunch of things about this model.

I thought it was going to have a moon roof but it didn’t. I feel like for the recent year model there are a lot of things it does not have that I would expect like automatic lights or a car starter. I like that you cannot lock the keys in the car. It is annoying that the car has to be off to open the trunk. It is nice that it is keyless. I like the backup camera and think the knob for the screen on the dash was easy to get used to. I like the auto brake feature. The noise is too loud that tells you when you are merging and someone’s in view. There’s not enough customization there. I feel like it is a little clunky and heavy as opposed to aerodynamic.

Amanda H

Good car just has a few minor annoyances.

This car is very fresh looking, meaning that it has a very aesthetic look to it. However, since leasing this car, I have had a few recurring issues. For example, it is very sensitive to things not being exactly how it wants it to be. If you leave the visor open, or the car door slightly open, the alarm will go off and will not stop until you fix the issue. This is not a horrible issue, but it can be annoying if you do not know what is causing it. It is helpful in the sense that it will not let you keep a light on and ruin your battery. The inside of the car is a little small for a crossover style of car. What I do love about this car is the helpful lane navigations. So, it will tell you if it is not clear to move into another lane. It will also help brake if you do not see a car in front of you. Overall, I would say that this is a good car.

Annie F

Not that great, but an okay car.

The screen turns off randomly in the cold, it is loud to drive. It is not that comfortable to sit in. I am not sure why I don't love it, I just do not. The gas is good, but the loud noise of the engine, takes a long time to heat up, and I don't love the heat system.

Molly E

There is absolutely no lower back support. Your back will be on fire if you don't add aftermarket support

It looks like a lady bug from the outside. There is no lower back support but there is plenty of room. The sound system could be improved as well. There's no pick up for speed but it is comfortable for driving distances

Chris T

I like the hatch back feature button.

Keyless entry cumbersome. Do not like screen in car does not always automate. Like the ride and very comfortable. I like the color and interior features. Wish I had more mileage allowance with lease. Car has weird key fob and does not allow you to open a door when another door is open.

What Do Critics Say About the Mazda CX-5?

Consumer Reports says the 2017 Mazda CX-5 is one of the most desirable compact SUVs, with high owner satisfaction scores.
Edmunds rates the CX-5 at 4.5/5, praising the excellent handling for a compact SUV, but it’s not as powerful as the competitors.
Kelley Blue Book users give the CX-5 a 4.4/5, enjoying the luxurious interior for the money, but owners don’t like the lack of cargo space.

What Common Problems Does the 2017 Mazda CX-5 Have?

Common problems found on the 2017 Mazda CX-5 include excessive noise while braking, transmission vibrations in very cold weather, as well as some tail light issues. Overall, these problems are common on many compact SUVs, with similar repair costs as well.

Excessive noise while braking is the most widespread complaint from 2017 Mazda CX-5 owners at around 15,000 miles. The front brakes tend to wear out quicker than in other SUVs. Replacing the brake pads costs around $300, while a new set of rotors is an additional $600 if they’ve gotten worn by metal-on metal contact.

Transmission vibrations in very cold weather have been reported by some owners in the first 10,000 miles. In cold weather engines will typically idle at higher RPMs, leading to more noise and vibrations. Usually it’s nothing to worry about, although it is worth it to check the transmission fluid levels to make sure they’re full and not frozen.

Tail light issues have also been mentioned by a few Mazda CX-5 owners at roughly 30,000 miles. There are some issues where tail light bulbs or controllers burn out. Replacing the bulbs costs around $15, while a new housing is around $80 if there are shorts in it.

There’s only one recall on the 2017 Mazda CX-5, which is better than many other compact SUVs. The recall covers the trailer hitch wiring harness, which can short out. Mazda will replace the harness on affected models.

How Long Will the 2017 Mazda CX-5 Last?

A well-maintained 2017 Mazda CX-5 should be able to last over 250,000 miles, which is about 50,000 miles less than the long-lasting Toyota RAV4. Regular annual maintenance costs are cheaper than many other SUVs, at $393 per year, according to data from Repair Pal.

As a 2017 Mazda CX-5 reaches 100,000 miles, owners should be prepared to replace the knock sensor for $250, the starter motor costing $400, as well as the lower control arms, which cost about $350.

Grace W

Very reliable. I have not had any problems with it. Tires are still in great condition, get great mileage, and is very dependable.

Sharon M

It is completely reliable. I have had no issues with it other than plastic parts popping off and squeaky brakes. It rides smooth and fast.

Dana M

Very reliable with no problems. It has not had any recalls or need to take to the dealer except for routine maintenance.

Sherry S

Mine has not had any problems. It is very reliable. The only issue is there could be a little more leg room in the back seat.

Anne W

I haven't had any issues with the car. It is reliable and I can depend on it. I don't expect to any issues

Amie S

It is very reliable. We have had one recall on it, but we have not needed to take it in for anything but routine maintenance.

Barbara P

Yes it is reliable. I have not had any issues at all with the car so far. Other than routine maintenance such as an oil change I have not had to have it worked on.

How Is the Technology?

Entertainment technology is excellent, offering a standard 7-inch touchscreen on all models with optional stereo system upgrades. Safety technology is also very good, featuring a rearview camera as well as Smart City Brake Support, which is a low-speed automatic braking system. Optional upgrades include lane keep assist, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, high-speed automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, as well as automatic high beams.

Is the 2017 Mazda CX-5 a Good Value?

Yes, the 2017 Mazda CX-5 is a good value since it’s cheaper than many other small SUVs. Blue book fair market values range from $17,375 to $19,825, making it less expensive than a Honda CR-V or Subaru Crosstrek. When new, the price range was $24,045 to $30,695. Depreciation is similar to other compact SUVs, losing about 10% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Mazda CX-5?

There are four models of the Mazda CX-5 offered in 2017, form the base Sport all the way up to the luxurious Grand Touring. It’s offered with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

Sport is the entry-level model with:

17-Inch Alloy Wheels
Cloth Upholstery
LED Headlights
Bluetooth Connectivity
7-Inch Touchscreen
Four Speaker Stereo System
USB Port

Touring is a step up, adding:

Keyless Ignition and Entry
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Simulated Leather Upholstery
Heated Front Seats
Six-Way Power Adjustable Driver Seat
Blind Spot Monitoring
Six Speaker Stereo System

Grand Select is next in the lineup with:

19-Inch Alloy Wheels
Leather Upholstery
Moonroof
Power Liftgate
Eight-Way Power Driver Seat
Auto-Dimming Mirrors
Bose Stereo System
Satellite Radio
Navigation System

Grand Touring is the flagship model which has:

Premium Leather Upholstery
Heated Steering Wheel
Adaptive Cruise Control
Forward Collision Warning
Lane Keep Assist
Heated Rear Seats
Head-Up Display

Sport

187 HP 26 MPG

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Touring

187 HP 26 MPG

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Grand Select

187 HP 26 MPG

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Grand Touring

187 HP 26 MPG

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What Engines Come In the Mazda CX-5?

The engine found in the 2017 Mazda CX-5 is an average 2.5L 4-cylinder which makes 175 horsepower while getting up to 27 MPG. It’s paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Performance is okay, taking about 7.5 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.

What Colors Does the Mazda CX-5 Come In?

How Comfortable Is the Mazda CX-5?

The 2017 Mazda CX-5 is a very comfortable compact SUV, offering seating for up to five passengers. Seating throughout the cabin is very nice, offering higher quality materials than many competitors in the upscale interior.

Passenger room is excellent with enough legroom for taller passengers in the rear seats.

How Much Storage Space Does the Mazda CX-5 Have?

Cargo room is lower than many other compact SUVs on the market, with enough space for 5-6 suitcases behind the second row, and around 10 with the rear seats folded flat.

What Are the Differences Between Years?

The second generation of the Mazda CX-5 came out in 2017, and is still being produced as of 2022.

2015: Keyless entry & ignition are standard on Touring and Grand Touring models.

2016: Updated stereo system, minor styling changes, as well as new safety technology.

2017: Fully redesigned for the second generation with new engines, exterior, and interior features.

2018: Blind spot monitoring standard on all models, more efficient engines.

2019: Upgraded engine on the Grand Touring & Signature models, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto added, optional 360-degree camera, as well as ventilated front seats.

2020: Quieter cabin than older models, more high-tech safety features, and diesel engine discontinued.

2021: Larger touchscreen stereo system, smart phone app connectivity, carbon edition trim added.

How Does the Mazda CX-5 Compare to the Competition?

The Mazda CX-5 is one of the best compact SUVs of 2017 since it offers a lot of technology, a nice interior, and great reliability ratings as it ages.

The Toyota RAV4 is another compact SUV which costs around $1,200 more. Standard safety technology is better in the Toyota RAV4, while the interior is much nicer in the Mazda CX-5. We recommend the Toyota RAV4 since they last slightly longer, although the competition is very close since they’re both excellent SUVs.

The Honda CR-V is a compact SUV which costs about $2,000 more. Performance and cargo space are a bit better in the Honda CR-V, while the Mazda CX-5 offers more luxury for the money. We recommend the Mazda CX-5 since you’re getting a nicer SUV for less money, although both are good choices worth test driving.

Ranks #4 Compact SUV by Owners

2017 Subaru Crosstrek

4.68

2017 Kia Soul

4.67

2017 Mazda CX-5

4.63

Do Owners Recommend the Mazda CX-5?

Grace W

Yes. The car drives very well, has great mileage, and can withstand tough weather conditions. The windshield wipers seem a little flimsy though.

Sharon M

It is the best vehicle I have ever owned. It has amazing new age features and is the top in safety and performance.

Dana M

It is an excellent vehicle. Plenty of room and great gas mileage. Very sporty for an SUV. Would definitely recommend to anyone looking for this type of vehicle.

Lynn B

Yes it is a good vehicle. It is the perfect size. Has nice interior. It is good on gas. This car is perfect for small families.

Jill S

Yes it is a great vehicle. It drives well in all types of weather. It is a dependable and safe car to have

Robin F

Yes, it has a smooth ride, easy handling, and it ranked high on the safety list. We have the package for upgraded sound system, which is amazing. We also love the sporty look of it.

Kiwi M

Yes, I am very happy with my purchase and have not had any mechanical problems so far with this car. I also get good gas mileage.

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Phoebe Williams on April 2, 2023

Fuel tank issues

Does anyone have issues with fuel tank and pumps inside. Can’t go below 4th tank of gas or it doesn’t run. Has Mazda done anything to correct the problem

Isabella T on June 18, 2021

Cx-5 great tech, great mileage. Stylish and practical!

The styling is great, I love the interior. It is reliable, easy to maintain and a good price. I wish it had more, but it is a base model so I cannot complain. The tech works with lightning speed. The gas mileage is fantastic! It costs me about $30 to fill up and with premium.

Ariel B on June 18, 2021

I love the radio system. And it is a very safe car.

I really like the heated seats, radio system with GPS and the all wheel drive. It drives great through the snow and is good in gas. It has lots of space and is very comfortable. It is also has safety features to let you know if the is a car in your blind spot as well as a backup camera.

Mia S on June 11, 2021

An interesting detail about my vehicle is the seats are customized.

My vehicle is very reliable with a smooth drive and steady wheel. The gas mileage is also very well. I fill up the tank about once every week and a half for only $35. The leather seats are a nice asset as well as the heated seats which tend to work very quickly. My vehicle has a remote start that never fails to work for me.

Nancy B on June 9, 2021

The back seats have seat warmers too.

My car is the very comfortable and amazing for family trips. Its super spacious and easy to travel with dogs. I haven't had any types of problems with my car at all which I love and I am sure others would too. It has bluetooth and leather seats that have seat warmers.

Kimberly W on June 2, 2021

I love my white leather interior, heads-up display and side warning system.

Mazda vehicles are wonderful. I have never had any problems with mechanics or service.. I have owned 5 vehicles-all new. I have also purchased the leather protect, clean, and condition package to keep the inside looking its best. I would highly recommend this addition to your package, especially if you have light-colored leather, as I do.

Scott F on May 27, 2021

Mazda cx 5 comfortable with good handling but lacking in technology package.

Vehicle is very comfortable and I love the look. Layout of inside and console is great. Interaction with multimedia system and phone is very poor and has had multiple issues. Nav system is difficult to use and not easy to input addresses. Audio system sound is great. Vehicle has very noticeable lag in acceleration when moving at slower speed like 30 mph then trying to accelerate hard. Seems to shift in bad spots. Handling on road and cornering is very good much better than expected in an SUV.

Lauren G on May 21, 2021

Chipped paint and crazy computer.

Sergio H on May 21, 2021

Decent car with something nice gadgets.

It runs and handled pretty well. Decent on gas and mileage but it could do better. The tires that came with it were of poor quality as we found ourselves having to replace them quite often. The turn signal indicators are a. I have touch as they warn you for any vehicles that may be approaching from your blind spot.

Patrick U on May 14, 2021

My amazing and lovable Mazda cx 5.

My car is a very reliable car. It is a 2017 Mazda cx 5 grand touring. It is very sporty but not as spacious. It is a very comfortable car that has soft seats. The interior is black and the exterior is white. This car is amazing. I love this car and I am very pleased with it.

SarH B on May 9, 2021

My Mazda cx-5 is the perfect SUV.

Got the car in red and it is such a lovely color, I even have strangers compliment it. The interior looks closer to a luxury vehicle. It rides very nice and I have had no issues, with the expedition of the navigation system. It looks and runs a little dated.

Kaitlyn M on April 29, 2021

An interesting detail would be that there are charging ports in the back.

It goes really fast and is really safe. It has a great sound system. Has Bluetooth, so I can make calls through the car. The steering wheel buttons are really helpful for answering the phone as well as skipping or replaying a song and adjusting the volume as well.

Aaron S on April 27, 2021

Never knew how much fun this vehicle would be.

Great vehicle and great reliability. Would recommend anyone to purchase this vehicle. Great handle and overall speed and performance. I would purchase this vehicle again in the future. Great for anyone looking to make a purchase of a vehicle at a reasonable price.

Salena G on April 27, 2021

It has great safety features, high tech controls and built in navigation.

Pros: heated seats, sunroof, big display, high rated safety features, drives well, reliable, push to start, Bose speakers, 4wd, great safety sensors, back up camera. Cons: no remote start, no cooling seat options, no automatic mirrors, does not give speedometer option in digital form, small, plastic wheel wells,

Deanna B on April 24, 2021

Mazda cx-5: more than just good looks!

I purchased a Mazda cx-5 and so glad I did. In my three years of ownership, I have never had to take it in for any repairs of any kind, and I am pretty sure that is the norm. It runs quiet, speeds up fast, and really hugs the road. The best thing about this vehicle are the safety features. There is a light and beeping sensor when a car is next to you or in your blind spot. This gives me complete confidence when passing a vehicle or changing lanes. The car tells me when it is safe! There’s also a back up sensor, a warning if my car accidentally goes into the other lane, and plenty of other great safety features. I have an attractive sporty 2 toned interior of gray and cream. The bucket seats are pretty comfortable and I love the electric multi adjustments of the driver’s seat. Up down, forward, back, or tilted back. I only wish the passenger’s seat had the same. All in all, you cannot go wrong with the Mazda cx-5 for dependability, good looks, and ease of performance!

Nancy M on April 24, 2021

Mazda cx 5 is a good vehicle for the money.

Performance is good. It gets great mileage, the ride is comfortable. It has lots of new and useful accessories included in the price. There are 2 issues one is the transmission speed Mazda is having a problem with transmissions but said our car is not affected. The tires are poor quality.

Liv D on April 22, 2021

Mazda cx-5 is great but can feel small.

Great Drivability. Performs well when maintained regularly. Nice quality interior materials. User friendly technology and up to date functions. Limited interior seating space, feels quite small, especially from rear seating. Trunk space is decent but rather small if you want to carry for instance a stroller and groceries. Overall worth the money but has its limitations.

Kevin K on April 8, 2021

The best way to good condition of my car.

From time to everyone finds they have an issue with there car. If you do develop a problem it is never a good idea to ignore it. Taking care of a minor issue as soon as it occurs is the best way to avoiding huge repair bills later on. Safety is another concern too, keeping your car in good condition is the best way.

Lori D on April 8, 2021

Spend a few extra dollars and invest in the sunroof. It is completely worth it!

Mallory S on April 6, 2021

A luxury car for an affordable price.

Luxury car for an affordable price. I get compliments everywhere I go. The touring model has leather seats, seat warmers, sport mode, and a host of helpful tricks on their dashboard interface. The car drives really nicely, gets good mpg, and has yet to cause me any issues.

Ed S on April 4, 2021

My Mazda cx-5. My reliable, cozy piece of moving shelter that takes me places.

First off I like it that the car came in silver cause it is my favorite color. The gadgets and buttons are all state of the art, except for the space between the driver and the passenger side, it gets cramped up a little bit. The operation and performance of the vehicle is smooth and there's hardly a sound coming from the engine bay. The luggage trunk is spacious enough for a few hauls of groceries. My only main complaint about my vehicle is that the air conditioning does not have any vents or control knobs in the back making it too cold for the driver and the passenger, and still somewhat a bit hot in the back. Other than that, I am fine with the vehicle.

John G on March 29, 2021

Mazda cx 5 great car for your dollar.

The Mazda c-x5 has been a great car for me the last 2 years. The car has run flawlessly, only needing basic maintenance like oil changes and tires. The interior is very well designed and controlling the radio and on board systems is a breeze with the control knob in the center console.

Muskan V on March 28, 2021

Mazda cx-5 three-year review.

Car is extremely comfortable and the drive is smooth. Screen system can be laggy at times and Bluetooth options are tough to navigate. The control of the car is easy. Gas pedal is very forgiving, brake is gentle. Seats are comfortable and easily adjustable. Speaker systems are clear, volume control is great.

Danica B on March 27, 2021

My pretty little Mazda helps me feel safe.

This is the second time I have chosen to purchase a Mazda. It was a top safety pick, which is one of the reasons I was drawn to it. The interior is beautiful, looks expensive without spending a fortune. It seems like a smaller SUV, but in reality there's plenty of room to stretch out comfortably with reclining seats and ample trunk space. It drives really smoothly. The keyless entry helps me feel safe when walking to my car, and the clear backup camera helps me become a more confident driver.

Michael A on March 26, 2021

Lots of great features that other brands of the same type do not have.

So far I have never had a problem with it, it is been really fun to drive. I love the adaptive cruise control feature, makes driving even more fun on the highway. I really like sport mode also which makes it a quicker response when you hit the pedal. Fantastic SUV from Mazda!

Gail O on March 26, 2021

It's not too small and not too big, just the right size so it's very easy to drive.

Love my vehicle. Since relatively new, I've had no problems so far. It has good performance and the fuel economy is pretty good.

Giana I on March 23, 2021

Smooth ride and excellent safety features!

Smooth drive, very easy to maneuver. Honestly my favorite car ever! My family owns two Mazdas, they are great cars. I always feel safe in my car due to its amazing features. For example, if you are swerving out of a lane, the steering wheel will vibrate and alert you that you are doing so.

VALERY D on March 22, 2021

Sports mode is great for long drives.

I love the performance. Great for long drives and great on gas. I have driven from New York to Florida and from New York to Las Vegas and back to NY. Seats four adults comfortably and 3 kids in the back with 2 up front. Sports mode is another amazing feature. Makes the drive feel great and cruise at high speed without feeling the road bumping and rough. It's a smooth drive.

Stanley M on March 22, 2021

Great features and performance.

The Mazda CX5 is a very reliable car. It comes with rear camera detection and lane departure detection which helps you to avoid crashes and other vehicles. The seats are comfortable and the driving is smooth.

Danielle K on March 20, 2021

My Mazda cx 5. I love the fact that I can haul stuff.

I have had no problems with it. This is only the second car I have ever bought new. I bought it to replace a ford fusion so a lot smaller car. I knew that I wanted something a little bigger but not a full SUV. Even though I do not have the highest trim levels it is still plenty luxury.

Nikki P on March 20, 2021

Great vehicle for a family of 5 and a lot of trunk storage space for traveling!

I have had no problems with the car itself. Of course you want to make sure you take it to check maintenance when it needs tire rotations and oil changes just like every other car. I wish I got leather seats because I like my seat warmers, but performance wise it drives smoothly.

Alison G on March 20, 2021

Good on gas. I am always in it and the gas mileage is much better than my other Mazda.

I like that it's good on gas, runs smooth, and cheaper with car payments. I used to have the CX-9 and it was much roomier.

Will R on March 17, 2021

Mazda cx-5 review with highlights.

It handles really well and drives extremely smoothly. Engine can sometimes make weird noises but for the most part it is a quiet ride. Gets up to speed super fast and feels powerful. Heats up well in the winter and even has mode where lights dim down at night which can be nice.

Megan E on March 17, 2021

Great family car to travel the world with

The Mazda CX-5 is a family car and it can be used as a business vehicle as well. The handling of it is very nice as well as the performance. There is not one turn or speed that it can't really go. The towing could be a little better but for a SUV it is very reasonable.

Tiffany B on March 8, 2021

Wonderful vehicle! Not enough leg room in the backseat.

I really love my Mazda cx five grand touring. Heated seats, backup camera, leather interior. Very comfortable for long drives. Only thing that I can say that is negative about this vehicle is that there’s not much legroom in the back when you have two car seats. If I didn't have two car seats there would be a decent amount of legroom.

Lauren V on March 7, 2021

Loving the cx-5 - there's so much room.

The cx-5 is an amazing vehicle. It has a smooth ride and is extremely reliable. I haven't experienced any issues since purchasing in 2017. The leather seats are comfortable and the heated steering wheel is amazing. It looks like a small car but I love how roomy it feels once you are inside. Will definitely purchase another in the future!

Naomi P on March 7, 2021

2013 Mazda cx-5 small car, big possibilities!

My car is 3 years old and I have not had any issues so far. I love all the features my trim has included, the Bose speakers, the seat warmers and the sky light. My car is very reliable, I commute to work and drop off my kids so I drive a lot, I have not had to do anything except for routine oil changes.

Leaf A on March 6, 2021

Very practical, good everyday car.

Reliable. Very comfortable. Would recommend air conditioned seats. Need a little more room for kids and dogs and a big husband. Maybe should’ve opted for a cx-9 with my lifestyle. Recommend roof racks. No tow power. Quiet. Air and heat work fast. Good sound. Navigation is a bit touchy. Hard to get consistent Bluetooth connection.

Julie N on March 6, 2021

Mazda cx-5 highlights mostly pros.

The Mazda cx-5 is a very comfortable SUV to drive. Mine has numerous safety features like back up camera, lane assist, guided cruise control, lane departure etc. My only complaint is if it is windy on highway, I have to grip steering wheel harder because the SUV has movement. Otherwise, it is one of my favorites of all the cats I have owned.

Adam A on March 5, 2021

3 year ownership short review.

It has served us well and never broke down. Maintaining it was very easy as well. The interior is very nice and held up over the years and the plastic finish does not feel cheap and does not melt and get sticky in the sun either. Overall it is a very nice car and I recommend it.

Miranda S on March 5, 2021

Love the Mazda and do not regret it.

It performs very smooth and well. It can be tough for shorter people to reach the cup holders. It is quite comfortable. The speedometer is a huge advantage. The brakes work great and are very smooth. The safety mechanisms in place are very helpful and can also be customized. I really do not have many complaints.

Anna H on March 3, 2021

I love the Bluetooth capabilities! Easy to connect my phone for calls and music!

I love this car! It has such a smooth drive and good pick up. Love the touch screen in the car. Have taken it through the mountains was very easy. The auto hold is also a super nice feature! The white exterior keeps it super cool on the inside. The speakers are also really good and the Bluetooth also works really well.

Anna L on March 3, 2021

I love how it drives- smooth and quiet.

The cx-5 is super reliable. I have yet to experience any maintenance issues or problems with it in the years I have own it. I have driven it over all types of terrain to include camping in the woods to freeway driving. It is quiet to drive and safe. It feels smooth to drive and is a nice color.

Hay P on March 3, 2021

The sport mode is really fun, best feature!

I love this car! Best one I have ever owned. The seats are comfy, and the interior is so sleek and clean. Love the trunk space. Drives smooth and the sport mode is super fun and useful:).

Kelly M on March 2, 2021

Mazda cx-5: nice car for the price and style.

Looks great! Pickup is low- does not accelerate fast. Love the color, moonroof, leather seats and sound quality. Tires needed replaced quicker than expected. Leather seats are easy to clean. Has a lot of room to carry things. Overall a very nice car for the price.

Rosie on March 1, 2021

Paint chips

I love my 2017 Mazda CX-5. But I had to install aftermarket XM as sales guy misled options. I am wondering does anyone have paint chip issues? They are tiny chips on the hood edge doors edge front of hood just to name a few areas of concern. Since it is a three step paint procedure wondering why. Thanks

Anita H on March 1, 2021

It is fun to drive. It is has lots of pick up.

No complaints gets good gas mileage. Has comfortable ride. Has plenty of power. I enjoy the stereo sound system. Has good visibility.

Kaylin W on March 1, 2021

I absolutely love the Mazda cx-5.

Absolutely love my Mazda! It drives very smoothly in all weather. It has a large trunk and spacious back seat which are both pros for our growing family. The only additional feature I wish it had is air vents in the back of the car. I definitely think I'll stick with Mazda for life!

Tori D on February 25, 2021

Mazda cx-5 - front facing camera.

The cameras have malfunctioned once in the front and the back of vehicle. All electrical works great and very user friendly! Love the ride and the ability to put back seats down to make more trunk space! I would keep purchasing this car every year if I could. I have tons of friends who drive older models that enjoy their cx-5 just as much as I do!

July A on February 22, 2021

Its comfortable and extremely dependable.

I love my car. I have no complaints. It is the perfect size, gets pretty good gas mileage, drives well in snow and has been very dependable. In fact I have owned this model of car 3 times.It is the perfect car for me.

Sarah M on February 20, 2021

Excellent small SUV with great features

Very reliable car that looks great inside and out. Plenty of space for passengers in the front and back row. Ample storage space in the trunk. Great features that come standard including touch screen display and heated safes. High safety rating with features like brake assist and blind spot monitoring

Alex Showalter

Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.