2020 Mazda CX-5 Review

Small crossovers SUVs are hugely popular with car shoppers and it's easy to see why. They provide convenience, safety, utility and versatility without being overly expensive. But it's also fair to say that most of these SUVs, as useful as they are, don't evoke a lot of passion. One notable exception, however, is the 2020 Mazda CX-5.

The CX-5 is attractively styled inside and out, a departure from rivals' rather utilitarian appearances. It's also more engaging and sporty to drive, which should appeal to those who crave more performance and a more confident on-road feel. In Edmunds' rankings, the CX-5 comes in a numerical tie with the Honda CR-V. The CR-V gains an edge for practicality but isn't as engaging or potentially as fast as the Mazda.

Holding the CX-5 back from the top spot is its relatively weak base engine, reduced rear legroom and a smaller cargo capacity. More likely than not, these drawbacks won't be significant enough to keep it out of the running. It's an excellent all-around SUV and worthy of consideration against any competitor.

What's it like to live with the CX-5?

Want to know even more about the Mazda CX-5? Learn about the day-to-day ownership on our long-term test of the 2018 CX-5. Was the cargo room sufficient for everyday use? Was it reliable? See what we liked and disliked about this fun and stylish SUV after driving it for a year. Note that the 2020 CX-5 differs slightly from the 2018 model, which did not have the optional turbocharged engine and Android Auto/Apple CarPlay that became available in 2019, but our coverage is otherwise applicable.