The IIHS calls the 2023 Mazda CX-5 a Top Safety Pick+ and the NHTSA grants it a five-star overall rating. Good crash-test scores and a bevy of collision-avoidance tech elevate the Mazda CX-5 above many rivals. All models are rated to run on regular unleaded, but you’ll need premium to unlock the full 256 hp in the CX-5 Turbo. Turbos are a bit thirstier at 22/27/24 mpg, but well worth the extra grunt. The base 2023 Mazda CX-5 checks in at 24 mpg city, 30 highway, 26 combined.

Most of the lack of pack leading fuel economy is due to only having 6-speeds on the automatic. It’s fine, but some rivals offer better fuel economy. The 2023 Mazda CX-5 is just average when it comes to fuel economy. Once you’re in the boost, though, these models deliver great highway passing. Turbos boast 256 hp (or 227 hp on regular unleaded) and a hefty 310 lb-ft of torque, with a nice growl when you get deeper into the throttle. This combo isn’t bad, but it can feel a bit rough and the lack of gears against rivals means highway fuel economy is just so-so.

The base 2.5-liter inline-4 pushes 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque to the wheels via 6-speed automatic transmission. The available 19-inchers may look great, but their small sidewalls result in a somewhat brittle feel on rough pavement.

Standard 17-inch alloy wheels provide the most comfortable ride quality. Its sharp steering and balanced feel give it a driving feel much better than its rivals. We’re most impressed with the CX-5’s handling relative to its rivals, though. Base versions can keep up with traffic, while the turbo is fairly quick.

Mazda cx 5 review