WASHINGTON — Crossovers are big business, and compact models are really hot, stealing some of the volume from normal sedans. But when choosing a crossover, you tend to give up that sporty fun ride that a lower and smaller car usually offers. Mazda thinks that they can offer an AWD crossover that’s good for all weather conditions and still provide a fun-to-drive vehicle without breaking the bank.
This isn’t my first time driving the CX-5, and even after a couple of years on the market, this new 2016.5 version doesn’t change the fact that it’s a good driving crossover. But it seems to offer a ride with less noise than in previous versions. There still is some engine noise, which is pretty good sounding for a four-cylinder engine. But the tire and road noise seem to be more muted than before, and a welcome change especially when at speed on the highway.
The handling is where this crossover shines. It has very good ability for a taller Ute. You can take on back roads more like a car. It likes turns and is very comfortable as the commuter car on city streets. It handles bumps, and only some broken surfaces do the large 19-inch wheels let you know this is sportier than luxury.
The Grand Tour trim level comes with a 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine good for 184 horsepower, and it helps motivate this compact crossover just fine. There are lower trim levels with a smaller engine with just 155 horsepower. That might not be enough power for some drivers but you can get it in a manual. Fuel economy is pretty good for this AWD CX-5. I managed 26.8 miles per gallon on a 400 mile brand-new Mazda. That number will only improve with more miles on the clock.
Outside the look has been updated a bit but nothing earth shattering — just a nip and tuck to the front end, offering a bit more of a curve on this handsome design after a few years. The lower part of the front bumper cover offers a bit of change where the fog lights are housed, and the look of the front end seems a bit softer as a whole.
The Grand Touring trim level starts under $30,000, with the larger 19-inch wheels and the optional Soul Red paint giving this a more upscale look than the price denotes. The lower body cladding in a darker color gives this a sporty look, and the combo of the two colors really works this time. The rear end styling also sees an update. It now has a bit of the new larger CX-9 style taillight design that offers an understated look that ties nicely into the dual exhaust at the back.
Another improvement over the last few years is in the interior, which has always been a step above the others in this class. But it’s even more so now with a higher premium feel and only quality materials. The heated leather front seats are comfortable, and the rear seat seems improved from before to add more comfort. The space is also good for those riding in the back, as leg and headroom is top notch for a compact crossover. Cargo space is ample, and the rear seats fold nearly flat, adding to the utility of this Mazda.
I do wish a power tailgate was in the cards on this loaded $34,485 version. The NAV screen is a decent size, and it’s easy to use with both the touch screen and the control knob on the center console. I also like that the touch screen is surrounded by soft touch material instead of hard plastic used many other manufacturers.
Just because you need a larger year-round vehicle doesn’t mean you have to drive boring. The 2016.5 Mazda CX-5 is a solid compact crossover. With some upgrades inside and out, this small Ute seems to be more of a premium-feeling ride in the class and worth a look before you buy.
