The Mazda CX-5 is a compact SUV offered by Mazda Motor Company since 2012. Standard trims in the CX-5 series include the Sport, Touring, Grand Touring, Grand Touring Reserve, and the Signature. In 2020, Mazda incorporated significant changes across all CX-5 models. The most significant improvements were safety features and reduced noise.

New changes for the 2020 Mazda CX-5

For the first time, the base Sport trim comes equipped with all the standard safety features included in the other trims, according to Cars.com. The 2020 CX-5 Sport features the Mazda i-Activsense suit. This feature bundles pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning with steering assists, and adaptive cruise control into one.

Another significant change to the 2020 Mazda CX-5 is that it has reduced noise levels for all models. Deputy program manager for the CX-5, Kiyoshi Hayashi, envisioned the next generation of the CX-5 series to be much quieter. To achieve such a feat, Hayashi and his team of engineers worked tirelessly to enhance the performance of the Mazda CX-5. His team made the engines more precise and stable to keep noise levels at a minimum and reduced overall vibration throughout the vehicle.

Likewise, all models now contain a personalized key fob for maximum security. They also have new exterior badging and updated interior switches. For the Touring Reserve and Signature models, they received a new 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen display.

Advantages of the 2020 Mazda CX-5

There are multiple advantages to driving the Mazda CX-5. For starters, the CX-5 has impeccable handling and best-in-class safety features. The IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick. Along with the Mazda i-Activsense suit, all CX-5 models contain stability control systems, anti-lock brakes, front, side, and overhead airbags, seat belt pretensioners, and an advanced security system. When considering safety among SUVs, the CX-5 is among the best.

Another advantage is the high-quality interior. The interior quality is the same featured in upscale luxury cars. The CX-5 is also quite comfortable and can seat five people with ample room. Not to mention, the onboard navigation system is very user-friendly, allowing for seamless connectivity.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 is also fuel-efficient. The base Sport model gets 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. The Touring models boast 28 mpg for both city and highway. Even the Signature model, which contains a twin-turbo diesel engine, gets 22 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

The 2020 CX-5’s cons

Despite the highly touted safety features in the 2020 Mazda CX-5, there are some disadvantages to the car. For instance, the price is much higher than other similar SUVs on the market. The base sport model costs $25,910, while the Ultimate trim will set you back $36,568 dollars.

Additionally, the infotainment system is aging. Mazda will have to upgrade its infotainment system on future CX-5 models. The CX-5 also received a meager three-out-of-five-star rating from J.D. Power.

The verdict

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 is a top-notch SUV crossover. It offers best-in-class safety features and has a perfect crash test rating. Not to mention, the CX-5 is agile, has powerful engines, and is fuel-efficient. The interior quality is also among the best, competing with the interior of much more luxurious vehicles.

Even though the CX-5 does not have an amazing reliability rating, it makes up for it entirely with its safety features. Despite the high price and aging infotainment system, the Mazda CX-5 is a vehicle anyone who is looking for a fun and reliable SUV should consider.