Model Tested: 2018 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD
![](https://autoreviewers.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mazda_CX-5_VX-1599701-370x278.png)
Engine: 2.5-liter 4-cylinder, 187 horsepower, 186 lb-ft torque
Transmission: 6-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel-drive
EPA Rating: 24-mpg city/30-mpg highway/26-mpg combined
Base Price: $30,945
As Tested: $34,685
Performance:
Hearty, respectable performance
Sport mode, but not much quicker than normal mode
Strong fuel economy for highway driving
Well-integrated Skyactiv technology for engine and electronics
![](https://autoreviewers.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mazda_CX-5_VX-1599688-370x278.png)
Cohesive engineering/design
Great city vehicle, but also excellent in the back country or snow
Radar cruise control
Sharp 19-inch alloy wheels
Highly useful head up display with speed limits/traffic signs
Excellent safety features—an industry award winner
Comfort:
Stretch-out front row accommodations
Comfortable, supportive driver’s seat with power lumbar
Three temperature heated front and rear seats
Ample headroom front and rear
Thick, contoured leather-wrapped, heated steering wheel
![](https://autoreviewers.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/4-All-new-CX-5-interior_NA-2-370x308.jpg)
Wide adjustment range on steering column
Good quality interior materials and design
OK rear legroom if front seats are up slightly
Good rear shoe room
Utility:
Power tailgate with good clearance
Flat cargo deck
Easy to manage/manipulate infotainment control dial
Large, wide front door storage bins
Medium size, but deep console bin
Soft center armrest
Efficient rain sensing wipers
Big sunvisors with center extensions
![](https://autoreviewers.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/4-All-new-CX-5-interior_NA-5-370x247.jpg)
Bright interior lighting for front row; rear a little dim
Medium size non-locking glovebox
Split, folding rear seats
WOW Factors:
Brilliant Soul Red Crystal Metallic paint
Handsome styling
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick
Whines:
Lockable interior storage bin(s) would be nice
Too small sunroof
Bottom Line:
The 2018 Mazda CX-5 is by far our favorite model and size of Mazda’s three SUVs. It’s a right sized, right
![](https://autoreviewers.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/3-All-new-CX-5-lifestyle_NA-9-370x278.jpg)
priced crossover SUV that makes an ideal family vehicle for active, multi-dimensional owners. The 2018 Mazda CX-5 hasn’t changed much from the redesigned 2017 model, but it didn’t need to since the ’17 was done so well.
Comments