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We’re here to celebrate the Mazda CX-5 again! This elegant yet affordable SUV has been racking up the awards and dominating the competition. Now, the 2023 Mazda CX-5 has another incredible advantage over its rivals. 

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 wins best compact SUV for the money 

2023 Mazda CX-5 review
2023 Mazda CX-5 | Allison Barfield, MotorBiscuit

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 might need a bigger shelf for all of its awards. The Mazda CX-5 was just named the Best Compact SUV for the Money by U.S. News & World Report. It defeated rivals such as the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 for this prestigious title. 

Jim Sharifi, Managing Editor at U.S. News, explained that the Mazda CX-5 combines desirable features, such as standard all-wheel drive, with a top spot in the rankings. 

Plus, the CX-5 offers a competitive price with low ownership costs, but most of its best attributes are noticeable right out of the gate. 

Buyers really appreciate how the CX-5 shines when it comes to interior quality and sporty driving dynamics that help it deliver a unique and rewarding driving experience. 

The critically acclaimed Mazda CX-5 is on a streak as it continues to pick up numerous industry and safety awards, including the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick+. 

It was the first SUV to earn a ‘Good’ ranking in the new tougher IIHS side impact test. All of the engineering and safety features that contributed to these awards come standard across the entire 2023 CX-5 lineup. 

You get Mazda Radar Cruise Contro with Stop and Go, Smart Brake Support, Advanced Smart City Brake Support, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, and Lane Keeping assist. 

These features help drivers feel confident and comfortable from the city streets to the open highway. 

How much does the 2023 CX-5 cost? 

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 starts at $26,700. This price is the MSRP, so it doesn’t include the $1,275 destination fee or dealership markups. The range-topping Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Signature trim increases the cost to $39,650. 

There are eight trim levels available, and each model is equipped with an impressive list of standard technology and safety features that are designed to meet your needs while delivering the brand’s renowned driving dynamics. 

With the standard 2023 CX-5, you get 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic LED high beams, rain-sensing windshield wipers, remote keyless entry, push-button start, cloth seating, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a 10.25-inch infotainment display. 

Is upgrading to the turbocharged engine worth it?

2023 Mazda CX-5 off-roading
2023 Mazda CX-5 | Allison Barfield, MotorBiscuit

The turbo engine is reserved for higher 2023 Mazda CX-5 trim levels, like the Turbo and Turbo signature trims. The cheapest model that the turbo is available with starts at $36,850. 

With the standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, you get 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque. It helps the Mazda CX-5 accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 8.7 seconds, which is average for the class. 

The turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine cranks out up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. It can reach 60 mph in about 6.6 seconds. 

If you want a sportier acceleration, then the upgrade is worth it. Otherwise, the standard engine is still great and is paired with plenty of award-winning features.