2021 CarGurus Editor's Choice Award: The Mazda CX-5

To see the whole list of 2021 Award winners, head to CarGurus: cargur.us/KvWl8
CarGurus Used Car Awards nominees were selected from all late-model vehicles originally available for sale in the United States. Vehicle generations that include the 2017 model year were considered in their entirety when evaluating nominees, as long as that generation did not stretch back more than 10 years. Three nominees were selected for each category and evaluated on criteria including CarGurus user reviews, professional test drive reviews, popularity, availability, and CarGurus’ projected 12-year value retention. Models with the highest overall scores were determined to be the winners for their respective categories. The “Editor’s Choice” was determined by a combination of the vehicles with the highest scores across each category and the CarGurus editorial team’s overall conclusion based on the spirit of the awards.
Presenter: Matt Smith, Deputy Editor
Cinematography: Elliot Haney, Video Producer
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0:00 The 2021 Editor's Choice
1:09 What are the awards?
2:04 Why the 2nd Gen CX-5?
2:48 Inside the CX-5
3:52 Driving Impressions
6:04 Safety and Technology through the years
7:19 Value Proposition
7:59 Final Thoughts

[@enriquemercedes9519]

Bought a 2021 cx5 grand touring because I wanted that bigger screen. It’s my first vehicle I bought brand new.

[@chih6654]

Congrats! I bought my touring in June, absolutely loving it!

[@2004cyrus]

Same here exactly!

[@ontarioman6301]

Congrats, I have the 2019 t gt

[@shineinouzen7412]

Same! It's the best car I've ever owned. Keeping it till the wheels fall off

[@Striker50_]

The big screen makes a HUGE difference! I just wish it had a bigger gas tank smh

[@user-mb5bt3rx4g]

Ofc it’s cx5 again! Where’s the Mazda gangs at👀

[@marcusespinoza2961]

I’ve had my 2021 Carbon Edition for about a year now…let me tell you, it’s a fantastic machine. The red interior exudes luxury and the driving as he mentioned is exceptional. I threw a hitch on it and it tow’s my 350lb motorcycle around like a breeze as well. Very, very capable machine. I plan to have it for ten plus years.

[@joecamps1119]

Just drove off the lot with one less than 24 hours ago so you know Im geeked to see it winning this award.

[@BetoSmith89]

I agree 100% with what he said. I have the 2019 model with the smaller screen and is not bad at all. The Bose Sound is incredible, the interior space is great for 5 people and the ride is just amazing.

[@SFic87]

Yay! Go Mazda! Love my 2018 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring!

[@KC-632H]

Absolutely we have a 2021 Signature its a blast to drive 😎

[@thel9897]

Been eyeing CX5 for years but never bought one. Pulled the gun a week ago! CX5 GTR and it's love at first drive!

[@proletar-ian]

I bought a ‘21 Mazda 6 GTR Carbon Edition a few weeks ago and it’s been excellent. It’s the sedan version of the CX5 and a great option if you don’t need something as large as a cross over

[@desertmike680]

Love it! My '18 Mazda 6 with manual has served me well over the past 3 years!

[@bill7481]

I used to own a 2017 CX-5 Grand Touring in this color. Great, beautiful vehicle! It looks and feels more upscale than the competition! Great choice!

[@kristivaughan3839]

I just got the 2021 GT premium in white/parchment and really love it. Nice and quiet. Peppy and upscale feel.

[@kaustubhdutta1573]

When I was shopping for a used SUV last year, it was Mazda CX-5 that drew my attention. I purchased the 2017 CX-5 GT and am very satisfied. The car looks brand new with lots of style and an absolute fun to drive. Whenever, my friends or first timers get into my car, they literally have the expression of "wow" !!

[@adaboy4z]

I've rented a 2021 CX-5 several times. Fun car to drive good power and comforts. I'm 6'3 and it could use 3-4 inches more front leg room and it's perfect.

[@Flash363]

I've been a fan of the CX5 since the 1st gen when I used to own a 2014 Grand Touring, good job to CarGurus on choosing the right vehicle! These things are awesome and easily the best overall crossover on the road not to even mention best design!

[@DoctorBrueckner]

I have the previous generation (2016.5 / GT) and I absolutely love it!

[@valdiswallace830]

2018 was the first year for signature and it had the turbo without Paddle shifters, GT reserve came out in 2019

[@timbirkenbuel2995]

I just bought a 2021 CX-5 Carbon Edition....cant wait for it to get here

[@johnwick860]

Mazda CX5 is a really great car

[@Dudevegaslv]

Durability and longevity ! I really don’t know you did a good job

[@DrinkableTrees]

thinking about getting either the cx30 or the cx 5 and still not sure which one i want but both will be a great choice for me since i live in a location with bad winters

[@capitalistdonkey]

I bought 2 weeks ago on 2021 Mazda CX5 Carbon Edition with beautiful interior , quite and nice .I like from only from JAPAN cars ,on most Honda and Toyota are from USA, Mexico and Canada.

[@jamesbridgewater5582]

just got a 2019 mazda grand touring reserve turbo at a great price!....couldnt be happier!

[@bobrafiq181]

2021 used or new both are pretty closely priced. So I would rather buy it new. The only hesitation I have at the moment when I look out at news for CX-50. Imagine what that would be like when it comes out hopefully within a year

[@andrewnickds]

Proud owner of a 2021 Signature.

[@pedromartinez6498]

Just bought, I love this car!

[@davidminor1254]

I guess I was surprised when initially looking at consumers reports recommendations to see Mazda was there because of all of the other big boy companies dominating the market. Yet it seems those big boys have had some major fails. The only experience I've had with Mazda was a 1990 Ford Probe which I was told was a Ford body on a Mazda chassis. That car was great and now I know why...Mazda. I am seriously leaning towards a CX-5 or maybe one of the sedans. Well done Mazda!

[@victorkonon]

Mazda CX5 Pros: made in Japan; reliable transmission & engine; very good NVH; decent AWD for on-road conditions'; good mpg; optional turbo - but still plenty of juice without it in a 2.5L; great driving dynamics and ergonomics; a whole lot of bang for your $; lower maintenance costs due to better parts & assembly quality from Japan. Cons: Crappy infotainment and periodic software bugs/glitches; good dealerships are rare - use OEM parts and independent mechanics.

[@2004cyrus]

I just leased a 21 GT w/ premium package and I’m happy with everything except the hard bottom seat cushion. I’ve had a Mazda 3 & Mazda 6. Great affordable and reliable. Also… I love this mans hair style! I can’t get mine to do that!

[@10usausa]

I agree with you; I love my CX5 GT, but the driver's seat is a little too harsh for me; I'm 6'2 and have trouble finding the perfect position.

[@2004cyrus]

@@10usausa exactly

[@LordClenz]

Love you guys Its the truth

[@artificialprimatem1670]

Love the car, amazing

[@timcongrove1305]

Well I don't have a CX-5 I did just buy a cx3 used because I didn't need all that room Mazda's quality is aparent even in the Cx-3. Do you have a 12-year projection on the Cx-3

[@2004cyrus]

Anything that old isn’t going to be worth a ton obviously. Probably $3000

[@koukimonzta]

If u want luxury and comfort , the grand touring is enough otherwise go for the higher trims for power

[@joncook8548]

We have been looking for an SUV and the Mazda is one of our favorites. BUT I'm really hesitant with the cylinder deactivation. We keep our vehicles 10+ years. It just seems like something that will cause major reliability issues down the road.

[@gch8155]

I want a Mazda x9 🙏

[@soderholmd]

First?! Just bought a cx-30. Would have got a used cx-5 if not for the super high used used prices right now!

[@2004cyrus]

Wasn’t your new CX-30 just as expensive ?

[@soderholmd]

@@2004cyrus Yes. But it was brand new versus used and had much better financing rates.

[@2004cyrus]

@@soderholmd that’s what I figured. Why not step up to the larger vehicle for a little more?

[@bobrafiq181]

@@2004cyrus I am in the middle of considering both. CX-30 has newer interior than cx-5. price wise its a $3k difference (CX-5 touring vs CX-30 Select). But not sure why i am leaning more towards the cx-5 as I have seen them on the road and they have much better road apperance than cx-30

[@tushar98]

Amazing SUV but leg room must improve. Both in the front and in the back

[@2004cyrus]

Well the vehicle would have to be longer. I’m 6’3” and don’t have problems. It’s not a huge car but you check out all of those things before you buy it. Sorry you are having leg space problems

[@souls3029]

Are you just talking out your ass just cause you can, or maybe you 7 feet tall cause i don’t see how the front row could need more leg room with the seats are adjustable

[@tmed827]

I have heard many good things about the CX-5 except for front seat comfort. Especially for someone like me who is 6"1". I would appreciate it if owners or reviewers would give their impressions on the front seats. Thank you

[@jhuman1074]

I've only had mine for a week. I haven't found the perfect seating position yet. Feels like seat cushion is too short and I'm sliding forward in the seat. I can raise the front of the seat but that seemed to trigger some back pains. The seats are not uncomfortable, but I'm still trying to find a better position for my legs. I'm 5'11" with a wide frame. At 6'1", you need to spend time in the seat to figure out if it will fit you before you drive it. Because especially with the turbo (carbon edition), once you drive it, the competitors in its class that I have driven feel like garbage. You will love the driving feel.

[@2004cyrus]

I have a new one and I love it but I find the front seats to have a firm seat bottom. I bought a Gel Foam seat cushion and installed it in my seat.

[@AxemanMessiah]

I tried the 2020 model and it was completely fine. No issues at all

[@2004cyrus]

@@AxemanMessiah I’m envious. My 21’ is so firm- hurts my butt after half an hour

[@AxemanMessiah]

@@2004cyrus Yikes haha. I actually am deciding to go for a Toyota Rav4 instead, the interior cabin and visibility seems to be larger than the CX-5. It seems though that the regular cloth option on the Toyota seem to be more robust than Mazda as well which can help in seating.

[@AxemanMessiah]

Love the CX5 and was planning getting it till the last week, first car I would consider buying new, but ended up getting the Rav4 Hybrid instead. 45mpg and a few other things are head and shoulders above Mazda (though it has its own benefits in handling, etc.). Ultimately can't go wrong

[@akgonen60]

Damn u got the rav 4? Cvt transmission or. Regular? If it's cvt... Then u got a lemon man sorry 2 say Mazda the only. Car manufacturer that doesn't do cvt transmission So they got Honda beat by a mile

[@akgonen60]

Honda make beautiful interior But that's as far as it gets there enginr are utter garbage on all models from. The civics to the rav 4 all the way to the top The Honda accords with 1.5 liter over the 2.0 an all with cvt Jiust garbage

[@akgonen60]

Hands down the top car on the market on reliability is Toyota followed by mazda All the other are trash Subaru Hyundai Kia Etc...

[@mpg65]

@@akgonen60 need to do a little research bud. Mazda is ranked higher than Toyota in reliability.

[@akgonen60]

@@mpg65 Awesome 👍

[@TruthHasSpoken]

Just wish Mazda would not have such a humungous center console. It's too wide, too tall, and thus too confining especially on a longer road trip. One can't even move their right leg while on cruise control. Just an awful auto design trend. Aside from that, a nice car.

[@chih6654]

Which compact SUV has dramatically smaller center console?

[@TruthHasSpoken]

@@chih6654 None.. though the Outback is just ok ... it was much better prior to their redesign. Like It said, its an auto design trend that i do not like ...

[@chih6654]

@@TruthHasSpoken you could easily buy a pickup with a front bench seat, problems solved

[@2004cyrus]

Interesting. I just leased a CX-5 on June 29th, I’m 6’3”, and that problem has never occurred for me. I like the width and find it attractive and functional and although I have other complaints, my experience isn’t yours. I feel the console center armrest is too low. I am disappointed in the firmness of the seat bottom cushion. And I wish there was a grab handle for the doors so I can hold onto it during long drives instead of laying my arm on the horizontal door armrest. I’m sorry you are feeling confined in your CX-5. They will rectify that in the next generation

[@TruthHasSpoken]

@@2004cyrus Hi Kody, I don't own a CX-5 but find the high and wide console design trend across brands irritating. If you are only taking shorter trips not a problem but if you are on the highway often on cruise, you simply can not move your leg. Good that it doesn't both you... and it is a nice car overall no doubt. congrats on your lease.

[@saurabhsrivastava9873]

Hello, Hope you are doing well. I want to buy a car but I have below factors - I am in USA for max 3 more years so I have to resell it. I mostly work from home so I need a car in which I can roam around in city or may be once a month on a long trip. I do need car with more features than power. My budget can range between 20 to 35 K depending on the car. Lesser the better. 😊 Please suggest me something as I am really getting confused what to buy in this uncertain market. Thank You Saurabh

[@2004cyrus]

Get a Honda Accord or a Mazda CX-5. Both are reliable, efficient, affordable, and comfortable. Easy peasy

[@saurabhsrivastava9873]

Thank you for the response

[@2004cyrus]

@@saurabhsrivastava9873 you are welcome. I sell new cars. If you have any other questions please ask me.

[@saurabhsrivastava9873]

Thanks Kody.....ill get in touch

[@2004cyrus]

@@saurabhsrivastava9873 wonderful there are lots of great choices including the new Honda Civic and any Mazda you like.

[@ianhand5006]

I've got a 2021 Sport, UK spec , 2 litre petrol automatic and it's absolutely dreadfully underpowered. The seats are pretty awful too.

[@Johnny-Rock-Star]

Get the GT with the Skyactive 2.5 next time. Awesome vehicle.

[@Striker50_]

MAZDA! Make the CX-5 10% bigger, increase cargo space, make the gas tank 3-5 gallons bigger, and improve the transmission to a 10-speed or CVT for better MPGs! It would literally be the perfect vehicle! I barely got 300miles highway driving on a full tank!

[@PastelitoBombon]

If you're a hobbit it's a great choice for sure, leg room is non-existent

[@normt430]

All Mazda SUV's are smallest in the segment.

[@2004cyrus]

I’m tall with little kids and we have no issues. Get a bigger car if you need one

[@normt430]

@@2004cyrus no pano roof?

[@2004cyrus]

@@normt430 no Pano roof this generation. I don’t want that though, it adds too much cost and weight and reduces the structural rigidity of the vehicle in rollover accidents it’s more dangerous. I sell cars. I do lots of research and talking to engineers. I don’t need that much sun in my cabin to be honest.

[@patrickgagnon9662]

This guy does not even mention torque at 320ft/lbs no one in the class comes close ...whoops.

[@ahbenjamin2889]

How much did Mazda pay you????!!!

[@normt430]

The Buick Envision 2.0T is putting down a faster 27.5s figure-8 time vs 2019 CX-5 2.5T and 2019 RDX 2.0T at 27.7 in Motor Trend testing. That continues in an Emergency Lane test by Consumer Reports that has the Envision 2.0T doing 55.5 mph while the CX-5(non-turbo) did 54 mph and the RDX 2.0T can only go 52.5 mph. For 2019 Envision 2.0T gets a new 9-speed and 295 lb-ft of torque, 316 lb-ft of torque on overboost. The twin clutch and torque vectoring AWD is something that Mazda cannot match only able to use brakes on a single on a wheel for torque vectoring. The Hiperstrut, as also seen on Honda Civic Type-R as dual axis strut, eliminates any torque steer under accleration. At a discounted $35K the Envision Prem ll offers heads up display, adaptive high beams and articulating HID, adaptive cruise control with full stopping, tri-zone climate control, sliding rear seat, 12-volt outlet, along with Buick's longer warranty than Mazda.

[@victorgiancola4866]

Nobody is going to buy a POS Chinese made Buick. They are bland, boring and horribly unreliable compared to a Japanese built Mazda. You can quote all the stats you can dig up but the facts are Mazda is more reliable, better looking, fun to drive and most of all… not a boring turd.

[@normt430]

@@victorgiancola4866 Consumer Reports Emergency Lane Change Test, braking from 60 mph. Buick Envision 55.5 mph, 128 ft CX-5(187hp) 54 mph, 133 ft Q5 52.2 mph, 130 ft RDX 52.5, 127 ft X3 53.0 mph, 130 ft Macan 51.5 mph, 130 ft MDX 52.5 mph, 135 ft NX 50 mph, 132 ft QX50 56 mph, 129 ft Stelvio 53 mph, 132 ft C&D has the Envision braking from 70 mph at a segment topping 158 ft. You want to compare Buick to the Acura in reliability? Out of possible 5 Envision- 4 RDX- 1 Q5- 2 X3- 2 Macan- 3 MDX- 4 NX- 5 QX50- 3 Stelvio- 3

[@normt430]

@@victorgiancola4866 the new 2021 Envision is even better! "...Pulling 0.84 average lateral g on the skidpad and putting up a 27.1-second figure-eight lap at 0.63 average g puts the Envision(2021) in good standing with the competition. The Acura RDX zipped around the bends almost as quickly, in 27.3 seconds at 0.62 g, and the Corsair 2.0 used 27.7 seconds at 0.67 g. Cousin XT4 recorded 26.3 seconds at 0.66 g....Needing only 116 feet to stop from 60 mph is a shade better than the XT4's 118 feet and is also better than the 2021 Acura RDX SH-AWD, which needed 120 feet, and the Lincoln Corsair AWD, which needed 126 feet... " Motor Trend

[@victorgiancola4866]

Boring Buick. I’m falling asleep just thinking about driving one, or it could be your useless baseless performance claims of a family suv only the elderly own.

[@ahuramazda323]

arguing about something that does not make much difference in real world appreciation of a car is baseless

[@pinakmiku4999]

For a used car, buy a Honda or Toyota to save yourself from depreciation. I feel even a monkey knows Honda and Toyota hold better value than a Mazda but Cargurus don’t know and predict it will retain most value just below Tacoma. Where does toyota 4runner, tundra, prius, honda cr-v, rav-4, subaru forester and hybrids go!? See the used market yourself for these vehicles and you will find out if CX-5 has depreciated least. I hate when these companies give biased and false information like this. Don’t fall for this video. Next decade gonna be hybrid which will hold most value. buy crv hybrid, rav-4 hybrid, prius etc to retain most value and these gas vehicle CX-5 will start loosing value rapidly

[@fanbuddy5852]

Mazda = rust, rust, rust.......

[@peterxyz3541]

The PROBLEM I have with (my) Mazda is their CHEAP quality….painted buttons, paint wore off. There is a way for Mazda to make HIGH QUALITY at low cost: unify (as much as possible) all the controls among the entire line. ONE set of mold, ONE set of HIGH QUALITY double injected buttons.