SUVs have increasingly become popular in the United States over the past few years. The Mazda CX-5 is an example of a renowned SUV that you would find not only being used here in America but also everywhere around the world. MotorTrend has ranked this model as the third best in compact SUVs, since it has several commendable features. Here are three of the best qualities of the CX-5, along with some of its flaws.

1. Advanced safety features are included in the Mazda CX-5

Every recent CX-5 model has been acknowledged by the IIHS as a passenger-safe vehicle, and they have even been nominated for the Top Safety Pick+ award on multiple occasions. Furthermore, this vehicle has several driver-assist features, adding to its safety rating. The Mazda CX-5 is equipped with a blind-spot and rear cross-traffic monitoring system, which help avoid collision by alerting the driver whenever a vehicle is approaching from the rear or when an object is in the vehicle’s blind spots. 

The CX-5 also features an Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system, which is responsible for keeping a safe distance between the vehicle and other vehicles on the road. A lane-keeping system is also included along with this function. Lastly, this model has automatic emergency braking, which is great for avoiding head-on collisions. 

2. The Mazda CX-5 has a well-designed interior

The CX-5 has a spacious interior with 39.7-inch front headroom and 41-inch legroom, making it ideal for tall passengers. MotorTrend confirms that, despite having such a spacious front, the vehicle has an easily accessible rear, making it easy to retrieve items from the back whenever you want. It also has one of the best interiors among compact SUVs, with comfortable leather seats and a luxurious design.   

3. The CX-5 has an exceptional driving experience

Another advantage that the CX-5 has over other models is that it provides its users with a smooth and peaceful driving experience. This is because it has quality suspensions that improve its stability on the road, giving it a better feel when compared to other SUVs. 

Vehicle users who seek comfort will be the most pleased by the CX-5 as it guarantees a comfortable ride even over long distances. Even though the CX-5 has some remarkable qualities, it also has some flaws that consumers frown upon. MotorTrend has pointed out some of the worst qualities of the Mazda CX-5. 

4. Mazda CX-5 has a confined rear spacing

Firstly, the rear has a 39-inch headroom and a legroom of 39.6 in, which is relatively small for a subcompact SUV. Also, the CX-5 has a small cargo capacity, which measures 30.8 cu-ft. However, this capacity can be extended to 59.3 cu-ft when the rear seats are folded, but this is still inconvenient for many travelers.

5. Fuel economy has lowered the CX-5’s rating

In terms of fuel economy, the Turbo trim model performs poorly. Modern SUVs are expected to have an average fuel economy of 29 mpg or higher. The CX-5 Turbo trim has a fuel economy of 22/27 mpg, making it unsuitable for long trips. Its 22 mpg fuel economy also puts it below the median fuel economy for all vehicles, which is 23 mpg.

6. Ignition time for the CX-5 is too long

Finally, the CX-5 sometimes takes too long to start when the start button is pushed. This could be a major inconvenience, especially in the case of an emergency. Despite this, the Mazda CX-5 eventually proves to be an excellent choice for an SUV after getting used to the vehicle’s heavy steering wheel.