Consumers looking for a compact SUV have plenty of options to choose from. As auto manufacturers strive to stay competitive in a crowded market segment, the standard features just keep getting better. Each model offers differing capabilities in performance, storage space, predicted reliability, and fuel efficiency.

With its stylish design and comfortable interior, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 stands out. The compact SUV far outweighs competitors with upgrades and enhancements and is arguably the best-looking crossover of this model year.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 beats out the competition when it comes to style

Consumers Reports recently ranked new compact SUVs. And in terms of styling, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 came out on top. It received an overall score of 83 out of a possible 100 points.

CR relies on responses from its readers to determine the rankings. Varying factors, such as owner satisfaction, road tests, safety, and performance, play a role in the point system. This scoring gives consumers a clear picture of what to expect from each vehicle listed.

The Mazda CX-5 saw an improvement in its scoring compared to last year’s model. That’s likely due to its high rating in comfort and convenience. The CX-5 received a 4 out of 5 in the ride, noise, front- and rear-seat comfort, and interior fit and finish in Consumer Reports’ analysis. The only category the SUV rated poorly was in the trunk and cargo, getting a 2 out of 5 because of limited space.

Improvements Mazda has made to the CX-5 over the years

Mazda has made several improvements to the CX-5 over the years. Even though the style is subjective, the 2021 model clearly beats out the competition.

Adding weight to the vehicle allows for a better cabin experience. Improved interior advancements have also earned the CX-5 praise for achieving one of the quietest cabins in the non-luxury compact SUV class.

Consumer Reports noted, “It’s abundantly clear that Mazda has worked wonders smoothing out the car’s ride, to the point it’s now one of the most comfortable in the segment.”

Interior details abound, with soft quality materials, intricate stitching, chrome trim. And cheap plastic is absent. The seats are now available in suede or soft leatherette, offering the utmost support, comfort, and design.

Also, reclining backrests in the CX-5’s rear seating is a thoughtful feature for passengers. And large doors provide easy in and out access. A new infotainment system with steering wheel controls, also found in the Mazda 3, gives the driver easy accessibility. Glossy-finish trim and an upper and middle dash complete the upscale interior look.

Consumer Reports even said, “Mazda has transformed the cabin into one of the nicest in the small SUV business.”

How other compact SUVs ranked

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 was the only compact SUV to see an increase in score from last year’s model. Regarding styling, several other vehicles scored above 70.

The 2021 Honda CR-V received an 82, the 2021 Kia Sportage an 81, the 2021 Hyundai Tucson a 77, and the 2021 Chevy Equinox a 74 out of 100. All the other compact SUVs in the crowded class scored 70 or below, with the 2021 Jeep Compass receiving the worst possible score of 39.

Styling refers to what the automobile looks like inside and out. When determining a score for this category, Consumer Reports looks at interior features that include driver accessibility, passenger comfort, and tech advancements. Exterior design and performance efficiency also play a part in the score.

Consumer Reports explained, “Having one score makes it easy to see which cars are the best and the worst.”

And the 2021 Mazda CX-5 is definitely one of the most stylish.