Your parents always wanted you to have a good time but be safe about it. They didn’t realize what they were really telling you was to go drive the 2022 Mazda CX-5. This compact crossover SUV is one of the safest vehicles in its class, and it offers you the benefits of Mazda engineering to give you the dynamic drive you want. You can push this SUV hard through the corners and come away with the rush of adrenaline you crave, or you can thank the Mazda team for the warnings and systems that keep you from hitting someone you didn’t see in the lane next to you.

How safe is the 2022 Mazda CX-5?

There aren’t any safety levels above what Mazda achieves with this compact SUV. The CX-5 earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award. This distinction means the CX-5 offers excellent protection if you are in a crash, plenty of warning and systems to keep you out of trouble, and headlights that give you a good range of visibility at night. This Mazda SUV is a safe vehicle to drive, as are all models from this brand.

What are the safety systems of the CX-5?

Every model of the 2022 Mazda CX-5 comes with:

• Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
• Pedestrian detection
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alerts
• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane-keeping assistance
• Automatic high beams

This is a comprehensive package of features that provide the alerts, warnings, and interventions needed to help avoid collisions when out for a drive.

What makes this crossover SUV fun to drive?

Typically, driving has two parts that allow a vehicle to be fun to drive: the powertrain and the steering/suspension system. Kelley Blue Book tells us Mazda improved the already impressive suspension of the CX-5 to make it better. They stiffened the frame and damped the responses. The stiffer frame reduces noise, vibration, and harshness, while the damped response improves the comfort level without giving up the precision or agility we admire about this SUV.

The powertrain offered in the Mazda CX-5 gives you a 2.5-liter engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Higher trims receive a turbocharger to add more power to the mix. Mazda vehicles use proprietary SkyActiv technology in the engine to achieve maximum torque levels at lower RPMs than others. This allows you to enjoy quicker acceleration off the line and more power during acceleration. Instead of working your way up to a speed to reach maximum power, you’ll have it while still on your way to your desired speed.

The naturally aspirated engine gives you 186 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm while the turbocharged version provides 310 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,000 rpm.

How much does a Mazda CX-5 cost?

Here’s where we put a price on the safety and fun you’ll have in the CX-5. The starting price for this SUV is $25,900, which is relatively affordable in its class. Move up to the top trim level, which is the Turbo Signature model, and you’ll spend more than $40,000 when you add some options to the mix. Four other trim levels between these two make it easy for you to have the CX-5 that fits your budget and has the equipment you desire.

Comparatively, the Honda CR-V starts at $26,000, the Toyota RAV4 begins at $27,000, and the Volkswagen Tiguan has a starting price of $26,000. None of these SUVs offer the fun or safety rating you’ll enjoy in the Mazda CX-5.

Should you drive the 2022 Mazda CX-5?

If you want a safe and fun vehicle with five seats, this Mazda SUV is an excellent choice. You’ll love the driving dynamics and the electronics that keep you safe and secure. There’s a decent amount of cargo room in the rear and a stylish build to give you a look and feel you’ll enjoy. The only reason not to buy the CX-5 is if it doesn’t have enough room for everyone you need to take with you during a drive.