2024 Mazda CX-5 Remains an Attractive SUV

After a week-long test drive to explore its characteristics, I can see why the Mazda CX-5 is the brand’s most popular vehicle. Although a redesigned CX-5 will launch in 2025, the current model continues to impress with its aggressive design, comfort, and features found in more expensive luxury vehicles. The 2024 Mazda CX-5 added subtle updates to enhance its appeal, including a new front grille, updated headlights, upgraded materials, and a more interactive infotainment system. The most noticeable change is the refined exterior design, which includes a sleeker front grille and an updated headlight design. This gives the SUV a more contemporary look that aligns with Mazda’s design philosophy. Inside, the cabin features upgraded materials and a more user-friendly infotainment system. Although the CX-5 received a mid-year refresh in 2022, a new generation is expected for 2025 that will feature a hybrid powertrain in collaboration with Toyota, which has a 5 percent stake in Mazda. Models/MSRP: The 2024 Mazda CX-5 has eight trim levels: Select ($30,720), Preferred ($32,070), Carbon Edition ($33,370), Premium ($35,320), Premium Plus ($37,920), Carbon Turbo ($39,015), Turbo Premium ($39,220), and the top-of-the-line Turbo Signature ($42,020). Each trim level offers a comprehensive list of performance and safety features that cater to a wide range of customer preferences. However, the Signature trim has more premium luxury features like a leather-wrapped steering wheel, Nappa leather heated/ventilated seats, and genuine wood trim. The 2024 CX-5 Signature also adds a 10-speaker Bose audio system, a heads-up display, a 10.25-inch color display with Mazda’s Connect infotainment system, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Power: The 2024 CX-5 is powered by an inline-four-cylinder engine that generates 187 horsepower and has standard all-wheel drive (AWD). The top-of-the-line Signature edition I tested has a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine that produces 256 horsepower. It gets good traction from Mazda’s i-Active AWD system and responsive performance from its six-speed automatic transmission. Fuel Economy: According to the EPA, the base 2.5-liter engine averages 24 city/30 highway mpg, while the turbocharged engine gets 22 city/27 highway mpg. For a complimentary subscription to my auto blog, visit www.decisivemedia.net to get updated car-buying tips and reviews on the latest new cars, SUVs, and trucks. Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network.