The Mazda CX-5 is the brand’s best-selling vehicle in the U.S., and for good reason. It combines a sleek exterior design, a refined interior space, and a dynamic driving experience that sets it apart from the competition. For 2024, the CX-5 gets some updates that make it even more appealing, such as new colors, a new Carbon Turbo package, and improved fuel economy for the base engine. In this article, we will review the pricing, packaging, features, and performance of the 2024 Mazda CX-5, and compare it with some of its rivals in the compact SUV segment.
Pricing and Packaging
The 2024 Mazda CX-5 starts at $29,300 for the base 2.5 S model with standard i-Activ all-wheel drive. There are eight trim levels to choose from, each offering different levels of equipment and powertrain options. Here is a summary of the trim levels and their starting prices:
- 2.5 S Select Package AWD: $30,600
- 2.5 S Preferred Package AWD: $32,300
- 2.5 S Carbon Edition AWD: $33,000
- 2.5 S Premium Package AWD: $34,000
- 2.5 S Premium Plus Package AWD: $35,500
- 2.5 Turbo Signature AWD: $38,500
- 2.5 Carbon Turbo AWD: $39,000
- 2.5 Turbo Premium Package AWD: $41,500
Features and Technology
The 2024 Mazda CX-5 comes with a generous list of standard features that enhance its comfort, convenience, safety, and connectivity. Some of the highlights include:
- A 10.25-inch full-color center display with Mazda Connect infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and touchscreen functionality
- Mazda Connected Services with remote access, in-car Wi-Fi hotspot, and emergency assistance
- Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Smart Brake Support, Advanced Smart City Brake Support, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist
- LED headlights and taillights, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and rear privacy glass
- Push button start, keyless entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, and leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
- Cloth-trimmed seats, six-way manual adjustable driver’s seat, and 40/20/40 split fold-down rear seatback
As you move up the trim levels, you can get more features such as:
- Leatherette, leather, or Nappa leather-trimmed seats with heating and ventilation
- Power-adjustable front seats with memory function and power-adjustable lumbar support
- Heated steering wheel and heated rear seats
- Bose 10-speaker premium sound system and SiriusXM satellite radio
- Power sliding-glass moonroof and power liftgate
- Adaptive Front-lighting System, LED fog lights and LED daytime running lights
- Paddle shifters, Mi-Drive mode selector, and off-road traction assist
- 360-degree View Monitor, front and rear parking sensors, and traffic sign recognition
- Genuine layered wood trim, frameless auto-dimming rearview mirror, and ambient lighting
The 2024 CX-5 also offers some new options, such as the Carbon Turbo package, which adds a unique styling and a turbocharged engine to the Carbon Edition trim. The package includes a new front grille design, silver accents on the side mirrors and bumpers, 19-inch Silver Metallic alloy wheels, and a Zircon Sand Metallic exterior paint color. Another new option is the Platinum Quartz premium paint color, which is available on all trims except the Carbon Edition and Carbon Turbo.
Performance and Fuel Economy
The 2024 Mazda CX-5 offers two engine choices, both paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard i-Activ all-wheel drive. The base engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 187 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. It features cylinder deactivation and i-Stop technology, improving fuel efficiency by shutting off some cylinders or the engine when not needed. The EPA estimates that this engine will deliver 26 mpg in the city, 31 mpg on the highway, and 28 mpg combined, which is a two-mpg improvement over the previous model year.
The optional engine is a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that generates 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel, or 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque on regular fuel. It provides more power and responsiveness, especially at higher speeds. The EPA estimates that this engine will deliver 23 mpg in the city, 28 mpg on the highway, and 25 mpg combined.
The 2024 Mazda CX-5 also boasts a sporty and agile handling, thanks to its G-Vectoring Control Plus system, which adjusts the engine torque and braking force to optimize the weight distribution and traction of the wheels. The CX-5 feels stable and composed on curves and corners, and delivers a smooth and comfortable ride on most surfaces. The steering is precise and responsive, and the brakes are strong and linear. The CX-5 is not designed for serious off-roading, but it can handle some light trails and rough roads with its 7.5 inches of ground clearance and off-road traction assist feature.
Comparison with Competitors
The 2024 Mazda CX-5 faces tough competition in the compact SUV segment, one of the most popular and crowded markets. Some of its main rivals are the Honda CR-V, the Toyota RAV4, the Ford Escape, the Volkswagen Tiguan, and the Subaru Forester. How does the CX-5 compare with these competitors? Here is a table that summarizes some of their key specifications and ratings:
| Model | Starting Price | Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Fuel Economy (city/ highway/ combined) | Cargo Space |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Mazda CX-5 | $29,300 | 2.5L I4 / 2.5L Turbo I4 | 187 / 250 | 185 / 320 | 26/31/28 / 23/28/25 | 30.9 / 59.6 cu ft |
| 2024 Honda CR-V | $29,500 | 1.5L Turbo I4 / 2.0L Hybrid I4 | 190 / 212 | 179 / 232 | 28/34/30 / 40/35/38 | 39.2 / 75.8 cu ft |
| 2024 Toyota RAV4 | $28,675 | 2.5L I4 / 2.5L Hybrid I4 | 203 / 219 | 184 / 163 | 27/35/30 / 41/38/40 | 37.6 / 69.8 cu ft |
| 2023 Ford Escape | $28,000 | 1.5L Turbo I3 / 2.0L Turbo I4 / 2.5L Hybrid I4 | 181 / 250 / 200 | 190 / 280 / 155 | 26/36/30 / 23/31/26 / 44/37/41 | 33.5 / 65.4 cu ft |
| 2023 Subaru Forester | $26,320 | 2.5L I4 | 182 | 176 | 26/33/29 | 35.4 / 76.1 cu ft |
As you can see, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 has some advantages and disadvantages over its competitors. Plus, it has the most powerful and torquey engine options, the best driving dynamics, and the most luxurious interior. On the minus side, it has the highest starting price, the lowest fuel economy, and the least cargo space. Depending on your preferences and priorities, you may find the CX-5 to be the best choice for you, or you may prefer one of the other models.
Conclusion
The 2024 Mazda CX-5 is a stylish and sporty crossover SUV that offers a refined and enjoyable driving experience. It has two excellent engine options, a standard all-wheel-drive system, a generous list of features, and a near-luxury interior. It also has some drawbacks, such as a higher price, a lower fuel economy, and a smaller cargo space than some of its rivals. However, if you value performance, handling, and quality over practicality and efficiency, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 may be the perfect crossover for you.
