2018 Mazda CX-5 Review: Reliable Compact SUV With Affordable Ownership Costs

Alex Showalter
Jan 11, 2023

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.

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likeFilled The Good
Handling is more responsive than other SUVs, the interior has high-quality materials and the cabin is very quiet.
dislikeFilled The Bad
Visibility is limited due to the large rear pillars, the stereo system is missing the latest features and the engine isn’t very quick.

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 20172021 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

accountCircle Alice M
Mazda cx-5 - great drive and comfort.
The Mazda cx-5 is a fantastic vehicle for those looking for a mid-size SUV to take you from commuting to off-roading and everything in between. The cx-5 gets 27 miles to the gallon (on average) with a smooth ride on all sorts of road surfaces. It performs remarkably in slippery terrain, managing snowy road conditions with ease. The creature comforts include predictive cruise control (my favorite feature), heated seats, lane-keep assist, and an in-dash infotainment system. The best improvement is compatibility with android auto/apple car play - I highly recommend adding that feature! The sound system lacks a little bass but the car drives smoothly, reliably, is eye-catching and just a dream!
accountCircle Lili R
It is super easy to drive and really smooth.
Great comfort, lot of features, seat heating, everything is electronic. Really easy to drive, the wheels are comfortable to hold. Good navigation system but sometimes it needs to refresh itself. It is easy to shift, there is a sport mode which is really good if you are in the mood.
accountCircle Jillian S
Mazda cx-5 is the best car because of its great reliability, features, comfort!
This is the best car ever. Drives super nice and smooth. Has a great sound system included with Bose speakers! It also has a very cute sporty touch to it, and has a sport mode. This car is very practical and reliable. The seats are leather and suede and super comfortable to sit in. It also comes with great technological touches such as blind spot assist, a backup camera, lane switch assist, cruise control, heated seats and many more. The gas mileage is also a plus. I get about 27 mpg on average! Not to mention, it is very beautiful! Overall this is the best car ever, super reliable, practical and comfortable.
accountCircle Todd A
Great car - Mazda cx5 - highly recommend.
I love this car. A big reason why I leased with Mazda is that the tech packages are top notch and you do not have to lease the high end models to get these packages. Also, safety is a big reason why I chose Mazda; some cars do not offer good vision out of the rear view mirror, not the case with a Mazda cx 5, I can see very clear out the rear mirror.
accountCircle Bryn G
I am not really 100% sure what the question is asking.
I love everything about my car. It's top safety rated, it's easy to get in and out of, it has plenty of room. I could go on. No complaints so far.
accountCircle Billijo R
My Mazda cx-5 is a great vehicle to drive.
I have had no problems with my vehicle. It drives great, comfortable on short and long drives, good gas mileage and I absolutely love my heated seats. It has plenty of room in back to carry groceries etc, back seat fits grandkids car seats easily. Height for getting in and out is perfect for my mother.
accountCircle Tati N
Amazing vehicle! It is fast and comfortable.
Gorgeous styling inside and out, captivating ride and handling. Quick-to-shift automatic transmission, turbocharged engine reserved for top trims, diesel engine lacks advantages, can only tow a maximum of 1500 pounds. In general is a good car! I really love it.
accountCircle John P
They should know that Even though it is an SUV it handles like a sedan. It is fun to drive and has a great look.
I really love the car I drive. I got it a few months ago and it handles very well. It has a sleek design and it has been amazing to drive.

Negative Owner Reviews

accountCircle Marie Grady
Brake safety
I purchased a 2018 Mazda certified CX- 5 at Patrick Mazda in Worcester, Mass three months ago with 16,000 miles on the odometer. Within 1 week brakes were pulsating when lightly applied at highway speed. Dealer stated they replaced rear rotors at no cost after resurfacing didn't work. A month and a half later steering wheel starts shaking when applying brakes lightly at highway speeds. Dealer stated front brakes are worn down to dangerous level and front rotors are defective. Charges me over $500 and has gall to ask me if I drive with both feet because brakes wore down so fast. I've received insurance discounts for over 20 years for safe driving and virtually never slam on brakes.This "Mazda certified" vehicle came with an inspection report certifying minimal brake wear. Yet, in a matter of three months, the rear rotors had to be replaced and the front brake pads and rotors had to be replaced, none of it covered, under original or Mazda certified warranty. This company and its dealers should not be allowed to do business in the United States.
accountCircle Alexandre
Be aware
Cx5 are good car, descent engine, nice looking but are painted by a 2yrs. If you are getting one, you should rush to get a 3m protecting film or some other clear coat. If you are planning on keeping it for a long time be aware that Mazda unlimited miles warranty will not get honored. If you are lucky they might do some touch up but only if it soul red. Black and grey are chipping like the soul red crystal but Mazda doesn't feel concerned so they will not do anything about it. Note that my front bumper feel like a 80 grade sandpaper and my hood was part of the snowstorm secret edition.. I'm not even taking about the rest of the car. (100% of the panels are chipped). Jet black mica, not the soul red. Your windshield will crack. Your wheel bearing will fail. Your shock will fail. Maybe you will be lucky and your engine block will leak oil. Be aware that your brake rotor and pads comes right for your kids's toys. You should never get near the 2000Lbs towing capacity. Don't replace by the oem one and get brakes on your trailer. Your windshield will not defrost in winter season. Your battery might discharge randomly. The car isn't apple car play ready so be ready to put over 500$ if you really want it. You will want it because the infotainment system is trash. Fuel consumption is good it won't justify more then 1 star. I'm myself owning a 2018 Gs with 54000km. First Mazda, last mazda.
accountCircle Maria P
Car review including radio buttons
The radio buttons are in a really annoying location. The performance is great. It is hard to switch between the radio and Bluetooth speakers quickly. The buttons to open the roof are easy. I think I have a faulty tire pressure sensor and hope to get it fixed soon after I make an appointment.
accountCircle Neil
Bogus “ Where am I “ in information screen
If you need to understand how high you are in mountainous areas and go to the info screen it give you lat & long but it shows altitude in miles. We are not flying an airplane it should read elevation in feet. I contact Mazda but they will provide a fix. The problem has existed for a few years back. The SIM card maker “ Here “ no longer works with Mazda so they will not help the owner.
accountCircle Dari T
Read this review before you buy.
Slow power, not enough indoor space, child car seat makes It Difficult to recline front seats. Other than that it is comfortable and gas is cheap. A low maintenance car. I have the touring so it kind of expensive for what you get. Trunk space is big enough. Seats are comfortable. I do not like all the sensors it has, they are too sensitive.
accountCircle Lisa H
Driving assistance is actually more distracting than helpful.
My Mazda cx-5 is a very nice car. It gets good gas mileage, is comfortable and can hold a lot of cargo for its size. Drawbacks are the visibility through the windows are not great. The break assist is a good idea, but startles you when it engages, which makes you not Focus on the road. I also do not like how it will move the car automatically if you are too close to the center yellow lines.
accountCircle WONH
No Display of actual Tire Pressure, no Apple CarPlay No SiriusXM
This vehicle for all of its good points is seriously lacking on 2 issues. First you have no way of monitoring which tire is low on air without checking each one. The display will tell you you have low air pressure but you do t know which Tire. Common Mazda every other Mfg can do it. Let’s go . Second, Apple CarPlay is a costly add on.
accountCircle Neil Davall
No follow up
We bought 2019 Mazda C X 5 for cash. Apparently because we didn’t finance I assume we were just written off. No one has contacted us since we bought it to see if, we were satisfied, not the salesman or owner of dealership. I find this unacceptable. We have no complaints but it would have been nice to be contacted. Your dealership needs to work on its customer relations. Neil Davall

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.

accountCircle Brooke C

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.

accountCircle RIddhi S

It is reliable from security features perspective however, it sometimes feel like that these features are also interfering with the acceleration on freeway.

accountCircle Molly C

No it has not had any problems just routine maintenance. Oil changes tire rotations that is it. Great car.

accountCircle Reya P

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.

accountCircle Haley J

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.

accountCircle Claire J

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.

accountCircle Sonia P

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.

accountCircle Lisa T

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
car
car
car
Grand Touring
187 HP 26 MPG

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.

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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.

Ranks #3 Compact SUV by Owners

1
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4.71
2
Tie
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4.69
3
Tie
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4.66

Do Owners Recommend the Mazda CX-5?

accountCircle Brooke C

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.

accountCircle RIddhi S

Yes, it is very smooth to drive plus with all the safety feature it is perfect SUV also affordable.

accountCircle Molly C

Yes very good, handles well in the snow. Little inside noise, comfortable ride. Adaptive cruise control is a life changer.

accountCircle Reya P

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.

accountCircle Haley J

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.

accountCircle Claire J

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.

accountCircle Ken W

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.

accountCircle Lorraine L

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.

Owner Reviews

accountCircle Jessica S on June 25, 2021
Mazda cx-5 review grand touring.
My cx-5 is a good SUV for small families, the gas mileage is not all the wonderful it could be better but for the most part the ride is smooth not a lot of engine problems either and the dealership that I went to the people were very nice and welcomed me to the Mazda family.
accountCircle Emily W on June 24, 2021
Luxury-like vehicle for value price.
I love my cx-5! I truly feel like I am getting a lot of bang for my buck. My model includes a lot of great features like back up Cam, Lane assist, heated seats, leather interior, above average tire & rim package and more. I lease it for only $257 which I think is a steal considering it has more of a luxury vehicle feel to it.
accountCircle Dawn B on June 24, 2021
Mazda cx-5 does not disappoint.
I purchased my Mazda cx 5 in march 2020. I have been extremely satisfied with the vehicle. Many special safety features are on this vehicle, which gives peace of mind. It runs and drives well. The vehicle is spacious and roomy for comfort. The stereo and navigation system is top notch! It is also designed in a manner where you need not worry about the touch screen while driving, as there are also controls for this on the front council. The only downside I have found is it does tend to get lower gas mileage.
accountCircle Ty C on June 19, 2021
The best car I have ever had, I love it!
I love my car so much. It is a smooth ride and has a fantastic sleek look! It is great on gas and the speaker system in the car is simply amazing. I do not plan on buying any other brands going forward because I love my car so much! I would highly recommend this car to anyone.
accountCircle Katherine D on June 3, 2021
My vehicle is the perfect size. It is a mid-size SUV.
The radio is malfunctioning but I believe it is because of the Mazda radio recall. Other than that I love the car. It drives great and it feels very comfortable. It is very spacious for my needs and nothing appears to be broken. It has been involved in a minor crash but it is still working fine.
accountCircle Megan B on June 1, 2021
My Mazda cx-5 is very reliable and has a great, sporty look to it.
It is very comfortable and reliable. It does not require anything outside of normally scheduled maintenance. It drives very smoothly and has a sporty look to it. The windows are great for noise control when they are up. It handles very well on the highway.
accountCircle Kelsey B on May 31, 2021
High end look for an affordable price - Mazda cx-5.
I love my cx-5! Mazda’s have a great high end look without the price. I bought this car due to the safety awards as well as it being an upgrade in size to my previous vehicle. The inside is sleek and clean, drives like a dream! I will forever be a Mazda customer.
accountCircle Christina B on May 29, 2021
Beautiful car that has sports mode.
I like that its a AWD because I have more traction in the winter. I like the back windows come lightly tinted. Its a 6 cylinder. It has sports drive so when I am on the highway I can speed off because I put it in sport mode. The clutch is in the center council. It does not tell you the amount of air in the tires.
accountCircle RT R on May 27, 2021
Mazda cx-5 overview - overall a great midsize.
Very comfortable seats and effective seat warmers. Love the blind spot alert and backup camera. The audio and navigation system is fine but the interface could be better. Great gas mileage. Only problem I have come across is that it needs an oil change more frequently than my previous vehicles. I think Mazda recommends every 5k miles.
accountCircle Wendy G on May 26, 2021
Cx-5 is awesome car, just love it.
The cx-5 met all my safety requirements, had just enough room in the back seat for two backward facing car seats (it is a tight fit - so be sure to try your own car seats), surprisingly good visibility based on how it looks from the outside, all for less money than anything I could find that was 'comparable.'.
accountCircle Taylor D on May 15, 2021
2018 Mazda cx-5 touring edition. White with black features.
SUV is very reliable. AWD is extremely helpful. Handles well in rain/potential hydroplaning situations. Comfortable seating. Touring edition includes nav. Safety features such as automatic braking and wheel correcting sometimes feel like they could be more of a problem than a solution but you can turn them off manually.
accountCircle Elizabeth R on May 7, 2021
Best small SUV for the price.
Exceptional four wheel drive capability. Comfortable and drives amazingly well in bad weather conditions. The interior is beautiful and it accommodates my whole family. We have never had any issues with this vehicle. Would not hesitate to buy this car again.
accountCircle Easton M on May 7, 2021
The benefits of the Mazda cx-5.
This vehicle is great because of its functionality and comfort. The seats are comfortable and there is ample leg room in the backseat. Overall, the car has a pleasantly spacious feel without being too large. The technology in this model is very impressive. Mazda implemented apple CarPlay into their vehicles, meaning you can connect your phone to the car, and very easily play music and accept phone calls. Finally, this car is very safe, with backup cameras, lane-shift notifications, and many more safety features. This car is fun to drive, and safe and comfortable enough to take on long trips.
accountCircle Sarah K on May 5, 2021
Perfect for me SUV Mazda easy breezy beautiful and reliable.
It is great! I love the all dark leather interior it makes cleaning a breeze and hides dirt well. The heads up display is the best along with memory seats, heated seats, and keyless entry. It is been so reliable so far already has 65,000 miles on it and have never had an issue still runs great!
accountCircle Tanna M on May 4, 2021
The loves and “not” loves about my Mazda cx-5.
Very reliable, and gets great gas mileage! There are tons of extra features that are great. I just wish it were more roomy inside. We have a couple of dogs and a baby, so we struggle fitting everything. The backseat is pretty narrow. Other than that, the car is very comfortable and I feel very safe driving it.
accountCircle Erin M on May 2, 2021
Safety features in Mazda 2018 cx 5.
It needed actual snow tires to handle winter roads better. I wish the space between the front seats and back seats has more leg room. I love the stereo and sunroof. The leather interior handles well and is easy to clean. The headlights are fantastic in night and fog. Safety features are amazing while driving.
accountCircle Amy W on April 29, 2021
Spacious Mazda cx-5 (review).
The Mazda cx-5 is sleek and modern on the outside and spacious on the inside. There is plenty of space in the trunk area for long trips or moving. The passenger seat and the seats in the back are roomy and comfortable. The drivers seat can be moved and the mirrors are maneuverable while driving with ease.
accountCircle Marco V on April 27, 2021
Easy to drive, great handling and quite.
Bought my cx-5 after having Mazda 3 for ten years. Extremely easy drive, easy to use control system and super quiet cabin. Very roomy, great gas mileage, rear camera makes parking a super easy task. I got the standard sound system and it delivers clean music.
accountCircle Teresa L on April 16, 2021
Break alarm is premature?
Mazda is pretty reliable, low gas mileage for a SUV. Good trunk space, comfortable seats even for larger people. The features like lane assist and automatic break is nice to have. Sometimes the automatic break seems premature when a car is turning right and you are going straight the car will alarm or even break, which seems more dangerous if it breaks in the middle of the road.
accountCircle Heather F on April 8, 2021
The blind spot monitoring system installed on the Mazda cx-5 is the most useful.
The Mazda cx-5 touring is the perfect car. It has luxury features without the luxury price tag. Compared to other vehicles, like Volvo and Audi my Mazda cx-5 has way more features. Like, blind spot monitors, lane departure assist, auto windshield wipers. It all around is a better car for the price than any other SUV I looked at.
accountCircle Olivier B on April 1, 2021
The 2018 Mazda cx-5 is a car that really outshines it is competitors.
I am really a fan of the vehicle I currently an leasing. The 2018 Mazda cx-5 handles like a dream. I honestly have never driven a car that turns on a dime and that just feels this good to be in. I love that the car has sensors for other vehicles that are on my right and left. They are sort of like blind-spot detectors and the car give a non-distracting small beep when there is a car on either side of me, which helps tremendously when merging. The model I have, has a sport mode, which honestly just makes the car handle so much smoother. This car is such a dream to be in and to drive. I am able to connect my phone to the car via Bluetooth enabling me to manage my music and also make telephone calls as well. I am honestly driving my dream car.
accountCircle Danielle E on March 30, 2021
Affordable and luxurious.
My 2018 mazda cx-5 grand touring is the best new car purchase I could have made. It is the perfect size for moving furniture, biking trips, and road trips. It is also a great family car with a hidden middle console in the backseat for holding beverages and charging electronics. I enjoy every perk that comes along with this car. Alerts as if there is a car in the next lane, especially when I am switching lanes and miss a car in my blind spot. Bluetooth. Heated and automatic adjusted seats for both driver and passenger. Sunroof. Navigation. Automatic trunk; open/close. And so much more. The mazda cx-5 grand touring is definitely a leading and refreshingly more affordable luxury vehicle. It does not disappoint.
accountCircle Brittany B on March 28, 2021
Mazda cx 5 unique features.
It is super reliable. Love the interior, back up camera, and blind spot monitoring. Feels very safe and comfortable with heated seats and automatic brake and slowing based on distance from other vehicles. It also causes steering wheel vibration when you drive over the centerline.
accountCircle Jenny V on March 27, 2021
A car that looks cool on the outside and is great for your wallet.
Overall, I love my CX-5 touring. The deep red it comes in is the best red I've ever seen in the market. As for the seating, it could be more comfortable but it's okay. I am not really a big fan of having the controller next to the gear shift bar. I understand the thinking behind it but it's a nuisance when you have a pet. My dog will step on where all the controllers are and accidentally turn the radio station off. I just rather have these things on the dashboard. When driving, even though the car only has 4 cylinder, it goes uphill easily. I drive mainly in the city and my average mpg is about 25 miles. I also love how perfect the size of this car. I can park just about anywhere because it is small to fit in small spaces. I love it.
accountCircle Allie F on March 26, 2021
It is the perfect car for any age! It has so many features that will suit anyone.
I have had my car for a little over a year and have had no problems with it thus far. It is the perfect size for college or even a small little family. It is very comfortable especially in the winter with its heated seats in the front and back seats and a heated steering wheel.
accountCircle Lauren w on March 25, 2021
It's well priced! And has great ratings.
Overall I love the car. It's a great size, fun, nice looking, and has great features all while being user friendly. It's not however the most powerful car, and lacks a cd player and the usb ports are at an awkward and uncomfortable angle. Otherwise I love the car!
accountCircle Mike H on March 25, 2021
Mazda cx 5 is a great family SUV.
Great handling and control. Has plenty of space both in the back seat and the trunk. Heats up very quickly and very smooth while driving. Seats are fairly comfortable and it gets very good gas mileage for an SUV. This is by far my favorite car that I have ever had and would recommend it.
accountCircle Cassie D on March 24, 2021
Great gas mileage and a very sharp vehicle to look at.
I love the features. Good gas mileage. Looks sharp. Don't like that's it's only 4 cylinders but helps on gas at least.
accountCircle Ron M on March 22, 2021
The safety features and the styling and gas milage
Beautiful car and fantastic safety features a great gas mileage
accountCircle Jason B on March 19, 2021
2018 Mazda cx-5 - great value compact crossover.
The car has been very reliable. Only 1 recall. Performance is great and gas mileage is good. Handling is like a sports car. It has a lot of cargo space. Interior materials are high quality and it is comfortable to drive. Only a few minor issues here and there. Wish it got a little bit better gas mileage in the city. Also I had to replace the windshield after a rock hit it in the freeway.
accountCircle Kimberly H on March 17, 2021
It's roomy for a small suv a s drives like a sports car.
It's brand new. I dislike the transmission feel. The gas mileage is not great
accountCircle Kendra H on March 15, 2021
The cx-5 is packed with features w/o a ridiculous price tag.
I absolutely love my car and everything about it. My husband on the other hand is 6’6 and finds my car to be to small for him. He has a hard time getting comfortable in it if we drive long distances. It is amazing on gas, has all the bells and whistles that I was looking for. I have a 2018 and just recently has to replace the battery but other than I haven't had any issues with my cx-5.
accountCircle Maria P on March 15, 2021
Car review including radio buttons
The radio buttons are in a really annoying location. The performance is great. It is hard to switch between the radio and Bluetooth speakers quickly. The buttons to open the roof are easy. I think I have a faulty tire pressure sensor and hope to get it fixed soon after I make an appointment.
accountCircle Carly S on March 15, 2021
Great car, would recommend.
This car has been excellent so far. It was a great upgrade from my previous car, a smaller hatchback. This size works better for our family and the leather seats are far more comfortable than cloth. I was able to find a model with tan leather, rather than the usual black, and it was definitely worth it.
accountCircle Timothy W on March 11, 2021
Cx-5 made with the driver in mind.
Comfortable for drivers. Everything is spaced out with the driver in mind. Control and acceleration is great. Very smooth driving experience and very interactive. You can feel the vehicle while driving offering comfort and stability. Great technology in the vehicle makes for a interactive experience.
accountCircle Haley M on March 10, 2021
Overall a great standard vehicle.
Very comfortable and spacious. Technology features are great. Navigation does not seem to be up to date. A lot of addresses are not recognized. Great smooth drive and not too loud on highways. Sport mode is a great driving feature. Great safety features like blind spot monitoring and lane departure.
accountCircle Elise H on March 9, 2021
Great car for a family and a great road trip vehicle.
As a mother and wife, it was very important that I find a safe, reliable crossover or SUV at a good price. With the cx-5, I got all that and more. All of the safety features with the most up to date tech in a 2018 was incredible. Blind spot warning, rear backup camera, lane assist, cruise control that will set how far you will stay from vehicle in front of you. It is also a very comfortable road trip car. I drove 13 hours for vacation and it was sublime. Very easy to clean and the storage capacity. I have a giant stroller that fits easily in the trunk. Also 2 dogs fit very well when a back seat is down! All around so happy, even 2 years later!
accountCircle Carolyn B on March 7, 2021
Awesome car! Comfortable, sporty and fun to drive!
Awesome car. Lots of room inside. Very comfortable. Tons of features. Love heated steering wheels and head up display. Great nose sound system. Great in the snow. Good gas mileage. Very comfortable and enjoyable to drive. I receive lots of compliments.
accountCircle Kylie H on March 6, 2021
2018 Mazda cx-5 grand touring is a must buy!
The 2018 Mazda cx-5 grand touring is top notch. It has blind spot motion sensors, lane departure sensor, and brake sensors. The car vibrates when you depart a lane without putting on your blinker. There is an auto windshield wiper function that will turn on when it starts raining. All seats have warmers as well as a steering wheel warmer.
accountCircle Kristin C on March 4, 2021
Luxury without the price tag
Not the best on gas but it is a midsize SUV. Power is there if that's what you're looking for. All the luxury of a luxury car without the crazy price tag. A lot of trunk space, very comfortable for passengers in the front and back seats. All around amazing!
accountCircle Jessica S on March 2, 2021
Wonderful car with a luxurious feel—infotainment center needs some work.
The Mazda cx-5 has been a very reliable car so far. I have never had to take my car to the shop for issues pertaining to the engine. As far as interior goes, the seats are very comfortable and my grand touring package came with leather seats and details that give it a very luxurious feel, and at a fraction of the price! It handles great and has just enough get up and go. One thing I would change however is the infotainment system and some of the safety features. The infotainment center itself is touch screen, but only under 5 miles per hour, so if your passenger is in the middle of putting in an address, the car will not let you continue if you are going over those perimeters. Along with that, the speak to text function is also not available, due to it being “unsafe.”. I am overall very happy with my purchase!
accountCircle Brittany M on March 1, 2021
Very cozy SUV and cannot wait to renew my lease and get another.
I love my cx 5. I have cloth seats which I prefer and very comfortable. Compared to my boyfriend's jeep, mine is a very comfortable ride. Enough storage and places to hold things. Enough USB as well as convenient. Brakes get a little worn quickly but other than that very spacious and cozy.
accountCircle Jessica B on March 1, 2021
Great car for anybody at any age or stage of life.
It is a very reliable car. It is made well and of high quality. It is pretty spacious for a smaller car. I have two kids now and it is difficult to get a car seat in and out of the backseat. But also has a good trunk storage which fits the stroller and other items.
accountCircle Vanny V on February 23, 2021
Futuristic design and comfortable to drive for a road trip.
The vehicle works really good, I always use it for the a road trips. The only problem just a quick recall that happen in 2019 but once I took it to the Mazda center, everything fix and has no issue. The vehicle has a luxury interior inside and the tail light looks futuristic.
accountCircle Lyne S on February 22, 2021
Cute, functional, but missing the umph.
The blind spot detection is not reliable and sounds when there is nothing near the car. There is not much power for the initial takeoff. The trim is amazing for the price. The seats are comfortable and the interior is very functional minus the location of the cup holders.
accountCircle Alexander B on February 22, 2021
SUV with great handling and nice interior for a great price.
The CX-5 has a great handling. Also, the interior is very upscale. Mileage is ok for this kind of car.
accountCircle Lynda T on February 21, 2021
Best SUV for travel in and out of town.
Haven't experienced any problems so far just got the car in may. Very reliable and comfortable. I travel and it's a great SUV for that. Traded my car in for this SUV. Lots of room. I keep finding new things the car can do. Love the navigation, easily to read and directions are better than my phone.
accountCircle Anna T on February 19, 2021
Mazda’s heated seats and trunk space!
I really do love my Mazda. I have always driven Volkswagens but decided to give Mazda a try. I gave it 4 out of 5 stars simply because I am still partial to Volkswagen vehicles. The Mazda however is spacious, especially the trunk. The back seat can fit a child’s car seat, another child and an adult comfortably. Heated seats are a plus for the winter!
accountCircle Todd A on February 19, 2021
Great car - Mazda cx5 - highly recommend.
I love this car. A big reason why I leased with Mazda is that the tech packages are top notch and you do not have to lease the high end models to get these packages. Also, safety is a big reason why I chose Mazda; some cars do not offer good vision out of the rear view mirror, not the case with a Mazda cx 5, I can see very clear out the rear mirror.
accountCircle Melanie C on February 19, 2021
Great for beginners in the road.
For now the only problem that I have is that is not fully automatic. Other things that I can talk about is the navigation system it has to be improve, also if you can put air conditioner on the back seat will be great. That is all I can think of about what can improve.
avatar 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.