The 2018 Mazda CX-5 lasts around 250,000 miles with some minor oil leak and cracked windshield issues reported. At $17,200 to $21,025, it’s a decent value for a small SUV with a nice interior and some advanced safety technology available.
Is the 2018 Mazda CX-5 a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 8/10 – 2018 is a good year for the Mazda CX-5 since it has good technology paired with high reliability ratings, giving it a high overall score. Owner reviews praise the efficient engine, low ownership costs, as well as the smooth suspension.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are nicer than other compact SUVs on the market, the seats are comfortable on long drives, cargo space is also average.
- Reliability 8/10 – There are no major problems on the 2018 Mazda CX-5. Shoppers should stay away from models from 2014 & 2016 since they have engine issues. Models from 2017–2021 are much more reliable choices.
- Performance 7/10 – Performance is okay from the standard four cylinder engine, although it’s not as powerful as some competitors.
- Safety 8/10 – The 2018 CX-5 is reasonably safe, earning 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests from the national highway safety administration. There’s a standard rearview camera, blind spot monitoring, as well as low-speed brake assist. Optional upgrades include adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, along with traffic sign recognition.
- Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is good at up to 26 MPG, giving 384 miles of range from the 14.8 gallon tank. Gas costs are $51 cheaper than average, at $158 per month.
- Value 8/10 – The 2018 Mazda CX-5 is cheaper than many other small SUVs, making it a good value for all the features you get.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Mazda CX-5?
- Consumer Reports says the 2018 Mazda CX-5 is one of the most desirable compact SUVs on the market with high owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds rates the 2018 CX-5 at 4.5/5, praising the upscale cabin for the money, but doesn’t like that it’s weaker than some other SUVs.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the CX-5 a 4.4/5, enjoying the sporty handling, but owners don’t like the poor off-road performance.
What Common Problems Does the 2018 Mazda CX-5 Have?
Common problems found on the 2018 Mazda CX-5 include some minor oil leaks, a cracked windshield, as well as premature brake wear. Overall, these problems are similar to some other compact SUVs on the market, with average repair costs to fix up the issues as it ages.
Minor oil leaks are the most serious complaint from 2018 Mazda CX-5 owners at around 30,000 miles. There is an o-ring which is known to wear out in the oiling system. Replacing the o-ring is a slightly labor-intensive process which costs around $500, although it’s usually covered for free in the original warranty.
A cracked windshield is the most widespread complaint on the CX-5 in the first 10,000 miles. There are some windshields which were improperly made, which leads to them cracking easier than normal. Replacing the windshield is the only way to solve the problem, costing around $450.
Premature brake wear also has been reported on some CX-5 models at around 15,000 miles. Excessive brake force can cause the pads and rotors to wear down faster than in other vehicles. Replacing the brake pads costs around $300, while a new set of rotors is roughly $600, depending on local labor rates.
There are three recalls on the 2018 Mazda CX-5, which is similar to other small SUVs. The most serious recall is for the fuel pump which may fail. Mazda will replace the fuel pump assembly on affected models for free. Other recalls cover the engine software as well as the airbag software, which Mazda will update for free.
How Long Will the 2018 Mazda CX-5 Last?
A well-maintained 2018 Mazda CX-5 can last around 250,000 miles, which is only slightly shorter than the long-lasting Toyota RAV4. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to other compact SUVs, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $339 per year.
As a used 2018 Mazda CX-5 reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history, owners should be prepared to replace the air bag clock spring for $375, fuel filter costing $275, as well as the brake master cylinder reservoir which costs $300.
Yes it is very reliable. I have done the regular maintenance and had to fix a flat tire once. But I have had no other problems even though I have put over 24k miles in a year.
It is reliable from security features perspective however, it sometimes feel like that these features are also interfering with the acceleration on freeway.
No it has not had any problems just routine maintenance. Oil changes tire rotations that is it. Great car.
It is a very reliable car. Safety is unbelievable in this car and I have no had any problems with the reliability of this car.
I have not had any problems with it yet. There has been a recall for a software update but I have had no other problems.
Like I said, I have had issues with the automatic features of the cruise control. The cruise control works fine, but the feature that can be used to set how far you are from objects in front of you does not always work.
No problems at all ! Going on two years with nearly 40k on it, and I have not had any issues whatsoever. Regular tire rotation, replacement and oil changes.
I have had the car for a little over a year now and I have not had any issues with it. I have only had to get oil changes and nothing else.
How Is the Technology?
Entertainment technology is good for a small SUV with a standard 7-inch touchscreen. Optional upgrades include a stronger stereo system. Unfortunately, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not offered on the 2018 CX-5.
Safety technology is great since the CX-5. Standard features include a rearview camera, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, as well as low-speed forward collision warning with brake assist.
Optional advanced safety features include full-speed forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beam headlights, adaptive pivoting headlights, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, traffic sign recognition, along with rear parking sensors.
Is the 2018 Mazda CX-5 a Good Value?
Yes, the 2018 Mazda CX-5 is a good value for a compact SUV with a nice interior and good technology. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $17,325 to $21,175, making it cheaper than a Honda CR-V or Subaru Forester. When new, the price range was $24,150 to $30,945. Depreciation is similar to other SUVs, losing around 10% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Mazda CX-5?
There are three models of the 2018 Mazda CX-5 offered, from the base Sport model all the way up to the luxurious Grand Touring. The CX-5 is also offered with your choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
Sport is the entry-level model with:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Cloth Upholstery
- LED Headlights
- Rearview Camera
- 40/20/40-Split Folding Rear Seats
- Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel
- Bluetooth Connectivity
- Leather Shift Knob
- 7-Inch Touchscreen
- Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers
- Four-Speaker Sound System
Touring is a step up, adding:
- 19-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Simulated Leather Upholstery
- Keyless Ignition and Entry
- Heated Front Seats
- Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control
- Power-Adjustable Driver Seat
- Six-Speaker Sound System
- i-Advanced Safety Package
Grand Touring is the flagship model which adds:
- Premium Leather Upholstery
- Power-Adjustable Passenger Seat
- Satellite Radio
- LED Fog Lights and Taillights
- Power Tailgate
- Head-Up Display
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Windshield De-Icer
- Heated-Second Row Seats
- 10-Speaker Bose Sound System
What Engines Come In the Mazda CX-5?
The engine found in the 2018 Mazda CX-5 is an average 2.5L 4-cylinder which makes 184 horsepower at up to 26 MPG. It comes standard with a six-speed automatic transmission, and can tow up to 2,000 pounds. Performance is average, taking 7.2 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.
What Colors Does the Mazda CX-5 Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Mazda CX-5?
Overall, the 2018 Mazda CX-5 is a comfortable small SUV with seating for up to five passengers. It has a smooth ride and well-cushioned seats, and owners noted that the interior is quiet and well-insulated from outside noise.
The front seats are spacious and offer good support, and the rear seats have enough room for adult passengers. Some owners did note that the base model’s cloth seats may not be as comfortable as the leather seats available on higher trim levels.
How Much Storage Space Does the Mazda CX-5 Have?
Cargo room is similar to other small SUVs in the 2018 Mazda CX-5 with enough space for 5-6 suitcases behind the rear seats and around 10-12 with the back seats folded flat.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The second generation of the Mazda CX-5 was launched for the 2017 model year.
2015: Keyless entry & ignition standard on Touring and Grand Touring versions.
2016: Updated stereo system, small exterior styling changes, more safety technology available.
2017: Fully redesigned for the second generation with new exterior, interior, and technology.
2018: More efficient engine choices and blind spot monitoring standard on all models.
2019: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto added, upgraded engine on Grand Touring & Signature models, 360 degree camera optional.
2020: More high-tech safety features, quieter cabin than in earlier years, diesel engine discontinued.
2021: Carbon edition trim added, more smart phone app connectivity, larger touchscreen stereo.
How Does the Mazda CX-5 Compare to the Competition?
The 2018 Mazda CX-5 is a very good compact SUV offering an upscale interior paired with good reliability ratings as it ages, making it an easy choice to recommend for most shoppers.
The Ford Edge is a larger SUV which can be found for around $1,500 less. Passenger room is better in the Ford Edge, while the Mazda CX-5 has a nicer interior for the money. We recommend the Mazda CX-5 since ownership costs are much lower as it ages.
The Honda CR-V is another compact SUV available for about $2,500 more. There’s more cargo space in the Honda CR-V, while the Mazda CX-5 has a more upscale cabin with higher-quality materials. We recommend the Honda CR-V since ownership costs are slightly lower for 2018, although both are very competitive SUVs worth checking out.
Do Owners Recommend the Mazda CX-5?
Yes. I have had no problems with the Mazda. It is perfect for my needs. I love the automatic lift gate and the sport mode.
Yes, it is very smooth to drive plus with all the safety feature it is perfect SUV also affordable.
Yes very good, handles well in the snow. Little inside noise, comfortable ride. Adaptive cruise control is a life changer.
Yes it is very good. It is a reliable car, good for in city driving and on highway driving. It has good mileage and is a safe car for any age.
I love it. It is drives nicely and smoothly. It has lot of room and passengers find it to be comfortable. Good on gas mileage as well.
Good vehicle? Yes. This model has a lot of safety features which is what drew me to if after a car accident that resulted in my car being totaled prior. The grand touring has some great upgrades while also being a reasonable price. A lot of the digital options are optional, but easy to use so they can be used or not depending on preference. I have had an issue with the automatic cruise control options, but I did not use it often prior. The Bose sound system is awesome. The convertible seats are easy to adjust for large loads. I personally enjoy the automatic open and closing of the trunk as well when transporting large loads.
Absolutely, I drive it in the rain, snow, sleet, hail, and when it is sunny and 75. Great heating and air control, I also have an automatic start that I love. Great sound system and a lot of storage space.
It is a great vehicle. Drives well, good gas mileage, spacious, and looks very beautiful. I really enjoy the backup camera, and I also enjoy the cruise control setting. It adjusts the speed for you so that you never have to brake.