2023 Mazda CX-5 Review

Name: 2023 Mazda CX-5
Brand: Mazda

Price Range: $21,998 - $33,590

Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Signature 4dr SUV Exterior Shown

Great

8.1

out of 10

edmunds TESTED

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 remains one of the best small SUVs around. It offers a high-quality interior, sharp handling and a competitive price. It comes up just a bit short in terms of rear passenger space, cargo capacity and fuel economy, but overall it's an outstanding vehicle in its class.

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Average price: $26,591

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Appraise My 2023 Mazda CX-5

Pros

Engaging driving dynamics
Attractive and upscale cabin
Optional turbocharged engine provides plenty of power
Quiet at highway speeds

Cons

Base engine offers lackluster acceleration
Ride is a little firm for the class
Less rear legroom and cargo space than most competitors

What's new

No significant changes for the 2023 CX-5
Part of the second CX-5 generation introduced for 2017

2023 Mazda CX-5 Video Shorts

by Edmunds Test Team

Overview

Written by automotive expert Christian Wardlaw

Updated: 10/26/2022

The Mazda CX-5 is a compact crossover SUV with seating for up to five passengers. Its current generation has lived near the top of our rankings for years thanks to its premium interior and excellent driving dynamics for a compact SUV in this price range. Consumers apparently agree that the CX-5 is a compelling choice in its class, as it is the most popular vehicle in Mazda's lineup.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

For sale near Ashburn, VA

2,208 listings

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2023 Mazda CX-5
2.5 S Preferred 4dr SUV
$24,495
great price
$2,311 below market
- 36,161 miles
- 5 Seats, 24 City / 30 Hwy MPG
- 29 mi away
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
Close
Located in Woodbridge, VA
Koons Kia of Woodbridge is a Kia dealership located in Woodbridge, VA, serving drivers throughout the greater Washington, DC area. The dealership focu...
Vehicle History:
No accidents, 1 owner, personal use only
Features and Specs:
26 Combined MPG (24 City/30 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
JM3KFBCM6P0246375
Stock:
KWK260995B
Certified Pre-Owned:
No
Listed since:
04-30-2026
2023 Mazda CX-5
2.5 S Premium 4dr SUV
$23,598
great price
$1,896 below market
- 51,919 miles
- 5 Seats, 24 City / 30 Hwy MPG
- 52 mi away
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
Close
Located in Hampstead, MD
Our 2023 CX-5 features all-wheel drive, back-up camera, lane keep assist, heated seats, cruise control, and black leather seats! Tune the radio betwee...
Vehicle History:
No accidents, 1 owner, personal use only
Features and Specs:
26 Combined MPG (24 City/30 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
JM3KFBDM3P0161489
Stock:
MGA161489
Certified Pre-Owned:
No
Listed since:
04-28-2026

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However, Mazda has a big decision to make about the CX-5. This year, Mazda debuted the CX-50, which is about the same size inside and out but is styled and packaged for a more outdoorsy type of buyer. The CX-5, for its part, is aimed at urbanites and suburbanites. The CX-50 slots above the CX-30 and lives below the upcoming CX-70 and CX-90 in Mazda's lineup. Which leaves the CX-5, well, where?

It's been seven years since the CX-5 got a complete redesign, and we think the nameplate is not long for this world. It simply doesn't fit into the emerging Mazda SUV lineup or match with the new naming conventions the automaker is using. But, hey, that's future talk. For now, the 2023 CX-5 is still a great choice for a small SUV. Check out our Expert Rating below for our test team's complete breakdown of the CX-5's utility, comfort and more.

What's it like to live with?

Our test team spent a year putting 20,000 miles on a 2018 Mazda CX-5, and their findings still broadly apply to the 2023 model. Find out what it's like to live with Mazda's fun-to-drive compact crossover by reading our long-term test of the CX-5.

Edmunds Expert Rating

edmunds TESTED

by the Edmunds Experts

Great

8.1

out of 10

We drove the 2023 Mazda CX-5 on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.

Performance

8/10

How does the CX-5 drive? The base engine provides underwhelming acceleration while the CX-5 is 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.

Comfort

8/10

How comfortable is the CX-5? The front seats are shaped well and generally comfortable. The rear bench seat is flat on the bottom, which might make long-distance driving uncomfortable for rear passengers. But the rear seatback can recline for added comfort.

The CX-5's ride quality is firm but not uncomfortable. 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.

Interior

8/10

How’s the interior? The cabin is driver-oriented with all controls within easy reach. The CX-5 is spacious up front, 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 sit in the middle. Rear legroom is a little tight.

An elevated 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.

Technology

8/10

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.

Storage

8.5/10

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 opening 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 the cargo cover in place. Push down on the plastic tab that keeps stuff concealed to access the tether.

Fuel Economy

6.5/10

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.

Value

7.5/10

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.

Wildcard

8.5/10

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.

2023 Mazda CX-5 trim level differences

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offers a choice between eight trim levels: 2.5 S, 2.5 S Select, 2.5 S Preferred, 2.5 S Carbon Edition, 2.5 S Premium, 2.5 S Premium Plus, 2.5 Turbo and 2.5 Turbo Signature. The "2.5" refers to the size of the engine. Most come with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder making 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. The 2.5 Turbo and 2.5 Turbo Signature trims get a boost to 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular octane gas. With 93 octane fuel, those numbers rise to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft. Every Mazda CX-5 has a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. Feature highlights include: Compare the 2023 Mazda CX-5 trim levels in-depth.

Which CX-5 trim does Edmunds recommend?

Though we prefer the CX-5's turbocharged engine, its limited availability and relatively high starting price encourage us to recommend the 2.5 S Select trim. It comes with just about everything you'll need from a small SUV plus desirable extras such as heated seats, dual-zone climate control and keyless entry.

Cost to Drive

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$186/mo

$228/mo

Avg. Midsize SUV

Calculate my fuel costs

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Reliability

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and no recalls. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5, ranks it #4 out of 32 among Midsize SUVs. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.

Reliability Rating by RepairPal

4.5 out of 5 stars4.5/5Excellent

#4 out of 32 among Midsize SUVs

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.

Cost

$402/yr

vs. $485/yr
for Average Midsize SUV

Frequency

0.72x/yr

vs. 1.18x/yr
for Average Midsize SUV

Severity

8.1%

vs. 13.5%
for Average Midsize SUV

Recalls

There are no recalls for the 2023 Mazda CX-5

Warranty

3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 5 years / unlimited miles
Roadside assistance Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles

Mazda CX-5 Reviews

Owner Reviews

4.1

64 reviews

5(58%)

4(14%)

3(17%)

2(5%)

1(6%)

See all 64 reviews of the Mazda CX-5

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Most Helpful Owner Reviews

Trending topics

The CX5 does everything just about right!

older auto guy, 10/09/2022

2023 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A)

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 is just right for this older automobile enthusiast. Even at the base sport level, which I purchased, the quality and refinement of the interior is exemplary. The seats are high quality design, fabrics, and very comfortable. The cabin ergonomics are well designed and the ride and handling manners are excellent. Acceleration is easily adequate for a ride through town, a …

Best. Car. Ever.

Cami, 08/11/2023

2023 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Carbon Edition 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A)

I love this car. I have not had a lot a cars in my life so I can’t compare like others who review. This car rides so smooth and quiet. Sometimes I can’t even tell it’s running when I first start it up. I needed an SUV due to aging back and knee problems. I could no longer get into my little 23 yr old Honda Civic anymore. This car is perfect for me, very comfortable and I love every …

I'm a convert!

George in Ohio, 04/24/2023

2023 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Preferred 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A)

I have always been a sucker for the "newest technology" when buying a new vehicle. When a new model is introduced or an existing model is completely redesigned, normally I'm all in. So why did I buy a vehicle which is essentially 8 model years old with my 2023 CX-5? Because it is so darn good. Yeah, it might not have the most current tech - no touchscreen, six speed tranny instead …

Drivers Only !

Etadeckimas, 01/16/2024

2023 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A)

We picked the Premium ( 1 below the top non-turbo line trim ) - this review ...The result of taking many high mileage , consistently long freeway trips, which has yielded some interesting data. First I have had not one issue that required a trip back to the dealer - Second , it has an ultra low fatigue factor when driving over 5 hours and is right at home on long mid-state, California / … Arizona/ New Mexico highways that people cruise at 80 in the slow lane -- The CX5 is geared well and 6th will let you roll effortlessly at 75 and still get +30mpg - As well there's plenty left to move up in mph if needed- Its at home on the long stretches and is super quiet and well mannered- Some say shy on power , but my experience is , not so , once you learn how to harness the gobs of torque that are delivered by a direct injection 2.5 at low rpms - its spot on with 2 people and luggage- the firm suspension is a bonus at these higher speeds -it feels firm and controllable , the steering feedback is second to none - once had an MBZs500 that honestly didnt behave as well -( although it was a 2001 ) - Not a fair comparison , yet its true- The transmission is what I believe is the best aspect of this vehicle , an old school solid chunk of metal that has a super reliable 6speed automatic , which has a twin clutch w/solenoid so once you start moving it rapidly locks into direct drive ..no extended exhaustive torque converter wind up before gear engagement. It is "AWD" but in reality 90% front wheel drive ( most often) with a rear differential magnetic lockout which is another serious stoke of simplistic genius, because magnets dont wear out - ever ! These may not be the " sizzle " items that sell cars , but if you plan on keeping what you buy for decades - this one is made to have the capability to meet that challenge ! I choose the naturally aspirated engine over the turbo , which in another piece of engineering excellence , Mazda has a patented Miller Cycle combustion engine , -- translation ..high compression ( 13:1 - USA ) ( 14:1 other ) ( 10-turbo )- with a unique intake system in which the intake valve closes late on the combustion upstroke ,right before detonation , thus reducing piston drag ,and increasing efficiency - one thing Mazda dosent say is that these high compression engines , ALL run better on high octane gas -- and there will be many throwing fits reading this - but even in the owners manual on the non-turbo engine it says " minimum octane rating 87 " -( as well theres no sticker on the gas cap area saying " use only 87 or low-octane gas " ) hmmm and, in the manual it states that lower than 87 octane can damage the engine..so what if you buy 87 and its off by a bit and is 86 ?- guess what -- not good ! Use at least 89 - .....its true -- because high octane fuel is more stable and harder to detonate -- thus on high compression engines - pre detonation with low octane gas is a concern-- so I run 91-93 and its noticeable in performance too --on Turbos , I would never consider low octane precisely because of this phenomena - when turbos create increased compression and pre-detonation is a much bigger risk --- any-who-ha - use at least 89 ..if you must ... , This is a well built , efficient , fun action packed ride for a steal of a price - Built to last and if you look around, you will see the 2012-13 first years CX5s still on the road ... ...its been built for over 10 years with one slight body change and some minor tweaks here and there ...so the result , is all the knowledge associated with over a decade of making the same vehicle- combined with the Japanese car makers ethos of KAIZEN . or constant improvement- you get - a winner - top to bottom - tight in the back seat / so if you are looking for a people mover - dont buy this race rocket - I dont want 5 people in my car anyway - on other non-driving irritants , but overlookable ....terrible info-tainment system , confusing , the key fob is another , the lock/unlock , rear hatch are on the side and easily set off in ones pocket - the old one was simple and better -- so my complaints are mainly tech-related nonsense thats been overthought and in trying to achieve convenience , confusion is sewn - The drive line / suspension / steering are second to none , and--- are what overshadow all that ridiculous tech stuff, that frankly all cars have now- so - we press on ....the accelerator ;-)

2023 CX-5 Features & Specs

Trim:

2.5 S

MSRP (New) Excludes Destination Fee	$26,700
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	26 MPG
Cost to Drive	$186/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	30.8 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	all wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts like the CX-5 models:

Smart Brake Support: Sounds an alert and applies the brakes when it detects the risk of an imminent front collision.
Lane Keep Assist: Provides gentle steering guidance to prevent you from inadvertently drifting out of your lane.
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Alerts the driver to vehicles approaching from the rear when reversing from a parking space.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat5 / 5
Rollover
Rollover4 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover16.9%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Good
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good

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