This week I find myself back behind the wheel of the Mazda CX-5 - Mazda's top-selling U.S. vehicle by a landslide. The automaker has sold over 56,000 CX-5s so far this year through May, only down slightly from 2024. I have to say it's impressive this SUV continues to deliver solid numbers with just a few updates here and there, as it's had no major redesign since 2017. However, that will change in the very near feature. The next-generation reportedly launches in 2026, and will add a hybrid variant.
Exterior
My test drive is the top-range Turbo Signature, which is distinguished with silver metallic finish 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels, aluminum silver-finished front and rear bumper trim and a gunmetal front grille.
Its Soul Red Crystal metallic hue is one of the stand-out reds in the industry. It's truly stunning.
The 2.5T Signature is equipped with LED headlights and daytime running lights along with adaptive front lighting. In back you find LED combo taillights along with a body-color rear spoiler and bright finish exhaust outlets.
Performance
A sporty 2.5 Turbo engine delivers 227-horses and 310 pound-feet of torque on regular fuel. But to really have some fun, spring for premium fuel for 256-hp and 320 lb.-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters provides smooth acceleration. i-Active AWD is standard across the lineup.
Interior
A tailored, upscale interior features Caturra Brown Nappa leather-trimmed seats, genuine woodgrain trim, bright silver finish, LED interior lighting and ambient foot illumination.
Cushiony seats feel supportive and comfortable. Both the 8-way power driver and 6-way power passenger seats are heated and ventilated. The heating element is great and very localized to the 9 and 3 o'clock positions. The leather-trimmed steering wheel is also heated. Above it, a bright 7-inch LCD driver display with graphics includes Traffic Sign Recognition.
A 10.25-inch multimedia display on the dash runs Mazda's cumbersome infotainment system operated via the multifunction commander control, steering wheel controls or voice command. It's a touchscreen only when using wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, new functionality added in 2024. The display has a great 360 degree backup camera with nice resolution. It's the only trim to feature Off-Road Navigation. A 10-speaker Bose sound systems sounds great.
Traditional dual-zone climate controls are the focal point of the center stack, and below it wireless phone charger. A leather-wrapped gear shifter, multimedia controller, Mi-Drive select, auto brake hold and an electric parking brake are located on the slim center console. Mazda did not skimp on cupholder size either. Two USB-C's are tucked away in the console bin.
The roomy second row features 40/20/40 fold-down rear seats that slightly recline. Headroom is still good despite slight stadium seating. Rear seat passengers get A/C vents, soft-touch front seat backs, and USB ports. The rear center armrest impresses in the segment, with two smaller cupholders, three-way heated seat controls and an flip-up area where you find USB-A ports.
It's equipped with a power lift gate. Cargo area is impressive and I was even able to fit a foldable wheelchair in the back.
Standard equipment also includes carpeted floor mats, a unique overhead console area, LED cargo area light, and a power moonroof.
Ride and Drive
The CX-5 Turbo is a fun, very sport ride with a stiff suspension and great handling. Love the acceleration. It's fantastic. In this trim, Mi-Drive includes sport and off-road mode drive settings. It's easy to maneuver, though the turning radius is on the wider side. Without a doubt, If you're a driving enthusiast you'll really enjoy being beyond the wheel.
Safety
The 2025 CX-5 Turbo Signature is equipped with Mazda's latest i-Activsense safety features which add Smart City Brake Support Reverse, and Driver Attention Alert. There is also a color Active Driving Display on the windshield.
What You'll Pay
With just two options on this model - the paint ($595) and rear bumper guard ($135), the MSRP rings up at just under $43,000.
Verdict
Sporty and engaging to drive with great acceleration, the CX-5 continues to impress in the segment, though keep in mind, if you like to have the latest-generation model, it's due for a redesign next year.
2025 Mazda CX-5 Turbo Siganture
- What I Liked Most: Driving dynamics and fun handling. Build quality and material. Bose stereo.
- What I would change: Overhaul the infotainment system.
- MSRP: Base: $40,600. As equipped: $42,750.
- Official Color: Soul Red Crystal metallic. ($595)
- Fuel Economy: 22 city, 27 highway, 24 combined.
- Odometer reading when tested: 6,620 miles.
- Curb Weight: 3,913 pounds.
- Spare Tire: Temporary spare.
- Length-Width-Height: 185.8” long/80.8” wide w/mirrors open/63.9” high including shark fin antenna.
- Fuel Tank Capacity: gallons with the fuel tank on the passenger side.
- Towing Capacity: 3,500 pounds.
- 2025 Mazda CX-5 in a few words: The best driving dynamics and interior in its segment.
- Warranty: 60 month/60,000 mile powertrain, 36-month/36,000 new vehicle limited warranty. 24-hour roadside assistance.
- Final Assembly Location: Hiroshima, Japan.
- Manufacturer's website: Mazda
