EZCar Buyer's Guide

A guide to the most headache-free and reliable vehicles, whether you're looking for the exciting or the practical.


Mazda CX-5 (2013-2016)

You can count on this sporty and efficient crossover to get you to your destination. With a range of options, it’s unlikely you’ll find a better bang for your buck.

Engine Options: 2.0L Skyactiv I4 (155 hp) or 2.5L Skyactiv I4 (184 hp)

Fuel Economy: 26/32/28 mpg (2.0L) or 25/31/27 mpg (2.5L)

Seating Capacity: 5

Drivetrain: FWD (AWD available)

Current Price Range: approx. $8k to $16k

Notable Available Features: Rearview camera, Bose sound system, sunroof, Blind spot monitors

Cars.com Consumer Rating: 4.6/5 stars


I’ll begin this review by disclosing that I am biased toward this particular vehicle, as I am the happy owner of a 2015 CX-5 Touring. However, I had only chosen this vehicle after extensive research.

With all the personality and pep of its Mazda3 and Mazda6 counterparts, the CX-5 offers an invigorating driving experience you wouldn’t expect from a crossover. Weighing a little over 500 pounds more than the Mazda3 hatchback, the CX-5 is ready to take on most other vehicles in traffic, especially when equipped with the 2.5L 4-cylinder. To top it off, Mazda made the correct choice by mating both engine choices to a 6-speed automatic transmission. If you’re feeling eclectic, the Sport trim level (2.0L engine and FWD) is available with a 6-speed manual!

Mazda implemented modern technology and safety features in the CX-5, such as a rearview camera and available blind spot monitoring. An available upgraded, touchscreen infotainment system can also be paired with a Bose sound system. This infotainment system was upgraded in 2016 to Mazda’s current knob-operated display. Overall, it satisfies the modern consumer with connectivity options such as Bluetooth or USB, but don’t expect to find Apple CarPlay standard in one of these.

As with any vehicle, there are a few consumer complaints that seem to be relatively commonplace. Thankfully, these are not mechanical and involve issues such as flickering daytime running lamps, windshield stress-cracking, and worn liftgate supports. Major issues were not reported en masse for either engine variant.

Although the CX-5 is a workhorse, it’s imperative to keep up with preventative and scheduled maintenance. The first-generation CX-5s have been reported to wear through brake pads quicker than average, so make sure to keep an eye out. If you opt for an AWD model, service the front and rear differential fluid regularly. Maintenance on this vehicle is reasonable and parts are easy to find.

The CX-5 is the perfect middle ground for those who don’t want an appliance of a vehicle or those who don’t want one that looks like it came straight from the latest sci-fi movie. The gentle, swooping curves of the body help to modernize and differentiate the vehicle without being ostentatious. Its crossover form factor and ample greenhouse space make it extremely practical.

I had long been a crossover hater, mostly due to their infiltration of the car market, forcing out the unique vehicles in favor of the “mom-mobile”. But how can you blame the average American consumer? The optimal mix of fuel efficiency, ground clearance, and cargo space makes an irrefutable argument.


Ezra Zacharias

Last updated: July 2024