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A detailed view of the Mazda CX-5 during the L.A. Auto Show

A 2018 Mazda CX-5 Could Be Your Best Affordable SUV

It’s no secret to us that Mazda is a fan favorite. The brand has a reputation for consistency, reliability, and practicality in a way that consumers can’t ignore. Mazda has quickly gained popularity for its surprising off-road capabilities and touches of luxury. It’s no surprise either that their SUVs have skyrocketed in popularity over the …

It’s no secret to us that Mazda is a fan favorite. The brand has a reputation for consistency, reliability, and practicality in a way that consumers can’t ignore. Mazda has quickly gained popularity for its surprising off-road capabilities and touches of luxury. It’s no surprise either that their SUVs have skyrocketed in popularity over the past few years, and their extensive range of vehicles starts at sports cars like the Mazda MX-5 Miata and ranges through sedans, wagons, hatchbacks, and of course SUVs. Buying a used Mazda is like getting a genuine bargain on a great vehicle, and the CX-5 makes the top of our list for used SUVs.

A used Mazda CX-5 could be the SUV of your dreams

You don’t like to make compromises, and neither does the Mazda CX-5. If you’re looking for a practical SUV with plenty of off-road capability, a luxurious interior, a reliable daily, and a comfortable family vehicle, look no further. While you could buy one brand new from the dealership, you can buy the 2018 model and get just as much. The 2018 model is still part of the same generation as the latest 2020, so you aren’t making much of a compromise.

The interior of the 2018 CX-5 features of mix of upscale finshings and trimmings.
Interior of the 2018 CX-5| Mazda

When you buy the 2018 CX-5, you get the same striking design as the newest 2020 model, and if you didn’t know any better, you probably wouldn’t be able to tell them apart. What you can tell apart, however, is the difference in price. Getting hit with only a slight amount of depreciation, you can find the CX-5 on the used vehicle market for under $20,000 with low mileage and in good condition.

Reliable, practical, and sporty

The 2018 Mazda CX-5 looks modern inside and out, ditching the more traditional boxy-styling of older SUVs without sacrificing back seat headspace. It may not have the striking appearance of the brands more aggressively styled sports car, but it does look modern and stylish. The interior is modestly designed with touches of high-quality materials but is mostly clad in plastic as you might expect from the low price.

A Mazda CX-5 driving down the road
Mazda CX-5 | National Motor Museum/Heritage Images via Getty Images

There are several drivetrain options available, all with the Mazda SkyActiv system, and each offers a slight difference in power and performance. Between the options, you can expect an average of around 26mpg, which isn’t necessarily a bad fuel economy. The cabin is well-insulated for a quiet ride, and you can relax in the car’s comfortable seats.

Overall the 2018 Mazda CX-5 is a great bargain for an SUV that can do it all. They are capable off the road as well as on, and comfortable enough that you can enjoy your daily commute or long weekend road trip.

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