Is Buying a New Mazda CX-5 a Better Buy Than a Used Model?
Everyone knows about depreciation. In fact, it’s a bit of a joke among many auto enthusiasts––especially when the luxury segment is in question. But there are actually some reasons that buying a new Mazda CX-5 compact SUV is better than buying a used model. For one, only the 2021 CX-5 has the Carbon Edition trim package.
There are more reasons, too. After weighing the pros and cons, we’ve deduced that––at the very least––it’s better to avoid the older Mazda CX-5 generation and purchase one from 2017 or newer. In fact, we’ve laid out all the reasons why we think buying a new Mazda CX-5 is smarter than taking the used route.
The 2021 Mazda CX-5
A host of updates befalls the 2021 Mazda CX-5 crossover SUV. According to Mazda, though it drops the turbodiesel engine option, it still gets the potent 2.5-liter turbo option. A used Mazda CX-5 is fun to drive too. But buying a new Mazda CX-5 from the 2019 model year on up means you get that turbocharged option.
One of the most frustrating drawbacks of the Mazda CX-5 predating the brand new 2021 model is the infotainment. If you’re buying a new Mazda CX-5 in the 2021 model year, you’re getting a massive tech upgrade. For just a few thousand dollars you get all the freshness of facelift tweaks, a completely updated infotainment system. The new one bests the 2020 Mazda CX-5 in size by over 3 inches.
Why is it better than a used model?
In general, the Mazda CX-5 is a reliable crossover SUV. According to Consumer Reports, the reliability verdict for every model year is pretty good. From 2018 to current, the CX-5 earned a 5 out of 5. And for what it’s worth, there were some problems with the older generation which you can read about below.
Plus, each year gets new tech, new safety, and just all-around newness that for most buyers is worth the extra spend. If you consider the fact that a new model has the manufacturer’s factory warranty as well, it’s almost a no-brainer. Unless you really don’t want to splurge that extra cash to buy new, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 crossover SUV is a great choice for people who love this Mazda SUV model.
The Mazda safety suite is standard on every trim now. In addition, the 2021 CX-5 gets remote start and other actives through smartphone connectivity borrowed from the Mazda3. If you opt for an AWD model, it features Mazda’s new traction control safety technology.
How much is the Mazda CX-5?
According to U.S. News and World Report, who ranked the 2021 Mazda CX-5 No. 2 in its class, pricing starts between $25,270 – $37,405. AWD adds another $1,400 to that price unless you go with either the top-tier Grand Touring Reserve or Signature trims in which case it is standard. The 2020 Mazda CX-5 starts between $25,190 – $37,155, according to U.S. News. So you really aren’t even saving that much.
However, if you want a current-generation model and you actually do want to save the extra dollar, U.S. News shows a price between $19,639 – $25,006 for the 2017 Mazda CX-5 compact SUV. This model ranked No. 1 in its class. Either way, whether you get a fully updated 2021 model year or a 2017 freshly redesigned for an all-new generation, it’s better to spend the money buying a new Mazda CX-5 generation model instead of getting an old one. That said, we still the 2021 CX-5 compact SUV is a better buy than a used model.
