When it comes to shopping in the compact crossover segment, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 is one of the best choices you can make. The CX-5 is not only a comfortable and capable way to transport five adults – or kids – but it’s also fun to drive. We had a chance to test out the Mazda CX-5 Turbo Signature trim level and found three reasons that it could be the right one for you.

1. If you like speed, then you’ll love the 2022 Mazda CX-5’s turbocharged 2.5-liter engine

First and foremost, the main reason that anyone would be attracted to the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Turbo trim level is its engine. Under the hood is a turbocharged SKYACTIV 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine that generates 256 hp and 320 lb-ft on 93 octane. But the beauty of this engine is that it can also run on 87-octane gas, although regular comes with a power penalty (256 hp, 310 lb-ft).

According to MotorTrend, this force-fed CX-5 can hustle to 60 mph in just 6.8 seconds. That’s a second and a half faster than the non-turbo model and a little faster than the Ford Escape 2.0T. That being said, if you like speed, then the CX-5 Turbo is the right pick for you.

2. The Mazda CX-5 Turbo comes equipped with more safety features and luxury

In comparison to the lower models, the Mazda CX-5 Turbo Signature trim level comes with a few more safety and luxury features. As far as safety features, the Signature trim level is equipped with everything lower trims have in addition to front and rear parking sensors, a 360-degree monitor, traffic jam assist, and a driver-attention warning. As for the luxury end of the spectrum, the Signature trim comes with a perforated Nappa leather interior, ventilated front seats, and a premium Bose 10-speaker sound system.

3. The Mazda CX-5 Turbo handles well for a small SUV

For the 2022 model year, Mazda spruced up the CX-5’s suspension by stiffening up the chassis and revising the damping responses. According to KBB, these improvements equate to reduced noise, vibration, and harshness as well as a more precise driving feel and agility. There’s also a G-Vectoring Control Plus module that modulates the engine torque and brake force to help with the car’s stability.

These minor improvements add up to a better handling CX-5 that feels more like a sports car than a small SUV in the corners. Also, the CX-5’s steering has a very tight feel to it, so if you want a crossover that feels like a racecar, then this is the one for you.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 Signature Turbo may be right for you if…

If you’re the type of driver that craves tackling corners at speed and a nice thrust of boost in every straightaway, then the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Turbo could be the one to pick. Performance and handling characteristics aside, the top-trim CX-5 also provides a great value considering that it comes with everything you need and want. As long as you can afford its $38,650 price tag, then the Mazda CX-5 Turbo Signature is right for you.