2025 Mazda CX-5

Closing in on a decade old, the CX-5 remains Mazda's best-selling vehicle for reasons that are readily apparent when you drive it. This compact crossover is handsomely designed inside and out, boasts lively driving dynamics without punishing passengers, and imparts an upmarket feel that distinguishes it from its many, many competitors. And its pricier trim levels include a laundry list of tech and comfort features to rival those on many luxury cars.

Mazda's own CX-50 is the CX-5's strongest competitor, but beyond its own sibling, there are many solid choices available to people shopping for a small SUV. The multitalented Honda CR-V is all-around excellent, as is the outdoorsy Subaru Forester. The Kia Sportage is a good value, with lots of standard features and available hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains. Read our Expert Rating below to see what sets the CX-5 apart.

Mazda offers two overlapping entries in the compact crossover class with the CX-5 and CX-50. They have the same standard and optional engines, are similar in size and price, and offer many of the same features. Based on the fact that the CX-90 replaced the CX-9 and the CX-30 replaced the CX-3, you could reasonably expect that the CX-50 was intended to supplant the CX-5. But the latter remains Mazda's best-selling vehicle overall, and it outsells the newer CX-50 nearly 2-to-1. Both are worthy compact SUVs, so if you're drawn to one, choose it with the confidence that you're not overlooking anything. Mazda is just in the enviable position of having two popular offerings in the same class.

We had a CX-5 for one year and 20,000 miles in 2018, when the second generation was newer. You can read our full long-term test of the Mazda CX-5 here. Our experience remains broadly applicable, but remember that Mazda has made numerous upgrades and improvements since then, so a review today would only be more positive.