2023 Mazda CX5 Turbo

No one looks to small crossover SUVs for distinctive style or grand times behind the wheel. These are vehicles that emphasize the "utility" in SUV and wring maximum space for people, pets, and personal effects in a quest for daily-driven competence. The 2023 Mazda CX-5, with its tight rear quarters and skimpy cargo space, manage to rise near the top of the class? Simple:

The CX-5 delivers joy to its driver. Not mere satisfaction for a job well done, but the same pleasure you might get from a small sport sedan and open highway, withtheaddedbenefitofroom forsuppliesfromthehome improvement store. The CX-5's base four-cylinder engine is a good introduction, but the car comes alive with its optional turbocharged counterpart. The turbo engine gets a slight boost, up 6 horsepower from last year's model when filled with premium gas. The CX-5 has always deftly balanced ride comfort and responsive handling, but this year's minor suspension updates aim to reduce road noiseandvibrationsandtightenupcontrol.Finally,subtle revisions to the front and rear bumpers, headlights and sundry panels give the CX-5 a dose of fresh style.

Rivals such as the Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson and Nissan Rogue offer more rear legroom and cargo volume, but the CX-5 is unmatched when it comes to combining performance and refinement in such an affordable package. Read our test team's Expert Rating below for a deeperanalysison what makes the CX-5 a top pick for a small crossover SUV.

How does the CX-5 drive? The base engine provides underwhelming acceleration while moving and overtaking on the highway requires some planning. It fares slightly better from a dead stop the 0-60 mph run on our test track took 8.7 seconds, which is typical for rivals with a base engine. The available turbocharged engine gets the CX-5 to 60 mph in only 6.6 seconds. Handling is where the CX-5 excels. Since it's sharp and communicative, you can take corners at speeds greater than rivals without squealing tires or feeling like you're out of control. The car is unfazed by quick left-to-right transitions. This is the best-handling small crossover. No doubt about it.

How comfortable is the CX-5? The front seats are shaped well and generally comfortable. The rear bench seatisflatonthebottom,whichmightmakelong-distance driving uncomfortable for rear passengers. But the rear seatback can recline for added comfort. The CX-5's ride quality is firm but comfortable. Midcorner bumps barely faze the CX-5, and it never feels floaty. Road imperfections are dealt with immediately. Noise in the cabin is really only evident at highway speeds. Even then, you won't have to raise your voice to talk to passengers.

How’s the interior? The cabin is driver-oriented with all controls withineasy reach.The CX-5 is spacious upfront, and there's enough headroom for tall folks all around.

Rear passengers might feel cramped by the sculpted outboard seats, which also make it difficult for an adult to sitinthemiddle.Rearlegroomisalittletight.Anelevated driving position, tall windows and narrow pillars make this an easy car to see out of. The exception is the view over your shoulder; the rear windows are a bit smaller than those of competitors but provide a decent view to limit blind spots. The backup camera's resolution is crisp.

How’s the tech? The infotainment system is easy to use overall, and the 10.25-inch display screen is bright and attractive. The available integrated navigation system is also easy to figure out. CX-5s with the head-up display can project turn instructions right onto the windshield. Mazda's voice control system is based on natural speech recognition. It's good at entering destinations, calling people, and tuning to terrestrial radio stations. The usability of the CX-5's advanced driver aids is a mixed bag. The lane departure warning system emits a unique low-pitched buzzing sound that really gets your attention. But the blind-spot monitor is overly sensitive, even triggering while passing vehicles that are several car lengths behind.

How’s the storage? The CX-5 has a cargo area that's a bit smaller than those in competitors, but we were able to fit two large suitcases without impeding rear visibility. The portal to load items is also a little smaller than the Honda CR-V's because of a higher cargo floor height and shorter max open height of the liftgate. Storage space for small items inside the cabin is abundant. Got small kids? Four slots on the outboard seats allow access to the car seat anchors. It's easy to push past the slots, but the anchors are inset a bit. The tethers on the seatback are easy to reach even with thecargocoverin place. Push downon theplastictab that keeps stuff concealed to access the tether.

How’s the fuel economy? Estimated fuel economy stands at 26 mpg in combined city/highway driving for an all-wheel-drive CX-5 with the base engine. We managed to get 28.8 mpg from our test AWD CX-5 on our 115-mile mixed-driving evaluation route, so you can probably expect to match the EPA's number. Some top rival crossover SUVs will still get you slightly better fuel economy.

Is the CX-5 a good value? There's not a single cheap-feeling trim piece in the CX-5. All materials, from the available leather upholstery to the buttons and controls, feel expensive. The only disappointments are the malleable side bolsters that rub against the center console in turns. Everything else is exceptional. Fully loaded, the CX-5 can be a bit less expensive than top-trim competitors. Warranty coverage is average for the class, and there is no free maintenance included, also typical for the class. The CX-5 is impressive from the moment you lay eyes on the expressive, sharklike nose. The good vibes continue when you take a seat inside and see the beautifully constructed cabin that puts all other vehicles in this class to shame. Few crossovers offer a sense of adventure, but you get it with the CX-5. MSRP range: $26,250 - $39,000