The Mazda CX-5 Keeps Earning Recommendations From Consumer Reports
The small Mazda CX-5 debuted for the 2013 model year as an affordable option for the ever-growing crossover market. Since its first debut off the production line, however, the Mazda CX-5 keeps earning recommendations, standing as one of the best choices for new or used SUV shoppers. Here’s why the experts think all buyers should consider the Mazda CX-5.
Year after year, experts have nothing but good things to say about the Mazda CX-5
The first generation of CX-5 models provided “a competitive and more entertaining small SUV alternative” to the competition, according to Consumer Reports experts. Earning decent ratings in most categories, the 2013-2016 CX-5 models boast agile handling, a fun-to-drive atmosphere, good fuel economy ratings, and a versatile interior.
Ratings on the second-generation of CX-5s, model years 2017-2019, are even better. Big changes to this generation brought more responsive driving capabilities, a more economical 2.5-liter engine, better-equipped interior, and more standard safety features. This generation receives reliability and owner satisfaction ratings of either four or five (out of five).
Regardless of the model year, Consumer Reports’ experts found the Mazda CX-5 to be a competent, reliable, and high-performing SUV. In fact, every single model year ever produced of the Mazda CX-5 has received Consumer Reports’ seal of recommendation.
Proof that the Mazda CX-5 is keeping buyers satisfied
Unlike many other SUVs and cars on the market, the Mazda CX-5 has only grown in popularity and success since its first year on the road. According to GoodCarBadCar, the Mazda CX-5 is among the brand’s top-selling vehicles, experiencing sales increases year-over-year every single year. In 2013, its first full year of sales, nearly 80,000 CX-5s were sold. But customers find more and more to love about the CX-5 every year, with Mazda selling more than 112,000 units in 2016 and nearly 150,000 in 2019.
Good sales numbers come from loyal and happy customers, which the Mazda CX-5 seems to gather in droves. Although Consumer Reports’ owner satisfaction ratings for the CX-5 range from three-to-four (out of five) depending on model year, it seems customers don’t have too much to complain about with their CX-5s. Proving to be a reliable choice for buyers, the complaints and issues associated with the CX-5 seem minimal.
When looking at complaints from owners on CarComplaints.com, it appears that the Mazda CX-5’s biggest problems aren’t that big at all. The worst problems, as well as the most-reported problems, tend to fall within the window/windshield and accessories categories. And although no owner wants to have problems with their car, the likelihood of experiencing severe problems (with major systems like the engine or powertrain) in the CX-5 is slim.
Is it a good choice for a used car?
Because Consumer Reports has rated each CX-5 model year so highly, the CX-5 stands as one of its most highly recommended SUV choices at almost every price point. According to Consumer Reports’ SUV recommendations, newer models like the 2019 Mazda CX-5 are among the best SUVs within the $30,000-$40,000 price group. But it’s not just the newer model that comes with a good recommendation.
Model years 2017-2018 are among the best SUVs within the $20,000-$30,000 price range, but also the $10,000-$20,000 range as well. Also among the best SUVs in the $10,000-$20,000 range are the 2015-2016 CX-5 model years, while 2013-2014 CX-5s are some of the best SUVs you can find for under $10,000. No matter your used SUV budget, there’s a quality CX-5 that fits your needs.
Combine the Mazda CX-5’s great ratings across all model years with its ever-growing fan base, good reliability, and affordable average prices, and the smaller CX-5 could be one of the best used SUVs out there.
