Only 2 Things Hold the 2024 Mazda CX-5 Back
It’s time to place a high-ranking SUV under the microscope. The Mazda CX-5 impresses as a near-luxury option that’s fun to drive. However, the 2024 Mada CX-5 isn’t perfect and two main areas could be improved.
Two potential 2024 Mazda CX-5 drawback
If you guessed that I was going to complain about the lack of touchscreen in the 2024 Mazda CX-5, you’re wrong. While I did spend a few days poking the screen before getting used to the rotary dial, I understand the decision to stay away from touchscreens.
The rotary dial is intuitive, easy to master, and makes the tech feel less distracting. Sure, the CX-5 also has analog gauges, which may feel dated. But they have an attractive layout, go with a simple yet elegant design, and may be preferred by some drivers.
Anyways, the first potential Mazda CX-5 drawback is the lack of space. While the front seats have plenty of adjustment controls for all shapes and sizes, the rear seat is lacking.
If you sit behind an average-sized driver your knees may hit the back of the front seats. There’s only space for shorter kids back there.
But if your front passengers are 5’1” like me, then two taller folks can happily fit in the back. Three adults would be a tight squeeze. But at least they will have rear air vents to stay cool.
Also, storage space is a bit limited. The center console is generous, but the glove box is tight. The door side pockets are small and storage space in the back is almost non-existent.
The 2024 CX-5 provides 29.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 59.3 cubes overall, which is good. However, the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V provide more space. Plus, the CX-5 can tow up to 2,000 lbs while rivals can tow up to 3,500 lbs.
Next up, the CX-5 could use a hybrid engine. It starts with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, which is average for the class.
You can upgrade to the turbocharged 2.5-liter engine with up to 256 hp and 320 hp with the use of premium gas. It’s rare for vehicles in the class to have two ICE powertrain options, but having to use more expensive fuel to get more power is a bummer.
The standard engine gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and up to 31 mpg on the highway. The turbo gets 22 mpg in the city and up to 27 mpg on the highway.
These figures aren’t bad, but the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid gets an EPA-estimated 41 mpg in the city and up to 38 mpg on the highway.
While the CX-5 is a well-rounded option that’s the sportiest and most luxurious model in its class, it could use more space and hybrid power.
