The 2023 Mazda CX-5 proves that a vehicle doesn’t need to be completely redesigned every few years to remain competitive. In a segment filled with newer rivals, larger touchscreens, and increasingly complex technology, Mazda’s compact SUV continues to attract buyers by focusing on something many competitors have forgotten: delivering a genuinely enjoyable driving experience.
For years, the CX-5 has been one of Mazda’s most important vehicles, helping the brand build a reputation for combining premium styling with engaging road manners. While competitors often prioritize cargo space, fuel economy, or flashy technology, Mazda has consistently focused on creating an SUV that feels rewarding every time you get behind the wheel.
That philosophy remains evident throughout the 2023 model. The exterior design still looks modern despite the vehicle’s age, the cabin feels more upscale than many direct competitors, and standard all-wheel drive gives the CX-5 an advantage that many rivals simply cannot match at its price point.
What truly separates the CX-5 from much of the compact SUV segment is its personality. Models such as the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, and Nissan Rogue are excellent vehicles in their own right, but few offer the same combination of driver engagement and premium refinement. The CX-5 manages to feel more expensive than it actually is.
The interior continues to be one of the strongest arguments in its favor. High-quality materials, thoughtful design, and impressive fit and finish create an environment that often feels closer to an entry-level luxury SUV than a mainstream crossover. Even after several years on the market, the cabin remains one of the best in its class.
While the 2023 Mazda CX-5 is not perfect, its blend of style, comfort, capability, and driving enjoyment allows it to remain one of the most compelling compact SUVs available. For buyers seeking something more sophisticated than the average family crossover, it continues to deserve serious consideration.
Our Take
The 2023 Mazda CX-5 remains one of the easiest compact SUVs to recommend. It may not offer the largest cargo area or the newest platform in the segment, but it delivers a premium ownership experience that many competitors struggle to match.
Its elegant design, standard all-wheel drive, refined cabin, and confident handling help it stand out in an increasingly crowded market. More importantly, it still feels special in a segment where many vehicles have become purely transportation appliances.
If driving enjoyment matters as much as practicality, the CX-5 continues to be one of the strongest choices in its class.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Standard all-wheel drive across the entire lineup
- Premium interior quality that rivals some luxury SUVs
- Attractive exterior styling that has aged exceptionally well
- Engaging handling and precise steering
- Strong safety ratings and driver-assistance features
- Comfortable ride quality for daily driving
- Available turbocharged engine delivers impressive performance
Cons
- Cargo space is smaller than several key rivals
- Rear-seat space is only average for the segment
- Infotainment controls require a learning curve
- Current generation is beginning to show its age compared to newer competitors
What’s New for 2023
The 2023 Mazda CX-5 receives only minor updates, but that is largely because Mazda already gave the SUV a significant refresh for 2022. For 2023, all-wheel drive remains standard across the lineup, a new Rhodium White exterior color joins the palette, and Mazda continues refining the CX-5’s feature content. While competitors have undergone complete redesigns, Mazda has focused on preserving the strengths that made the CX-5 one of the segment’s most respected SUVs.
Exterior Design
Even several years after its introduction, the Mazda CX-5 remains one of the most attractive compact SUVs on the road. While some competitors have adopted increasingly aggressive styling or oversized grilles, Mazda’s design philosophy continues to emphasize elegance, clean surfaces, and timeless proportions.
The front fascia features a prominent grille framed by slim LED headlights that give the CX-5 a sophisticated appearance. Smooth body lines flow naturally from front to rear, creating a premium look that helps the SUV stand apart from many mainstream competitors. It is a design that has aged remarkably well and still attracts attention in parking lots filled with newer vehicles.
From the side, the CX-5 strikes an excellent balance between sporty and practical. The gently sloping roofline, sculpted wheel arches, and available 19-inch wheels give it a more athletic stance than many rivals. Unlike some SUVs that appear bulky or oversized, the CX-5 maintains a sense of proportion that contributes to its upscale character.
The rear design is equally clean and refined. Slim taillights, subtle chrome accents, and tasteful detailing help complete an exterior that feels more expensive than its price tag would suggest. Simply put, the CX-5 continues to be one of the best-looking vehicles in its class.
Driving Experience
The driving experience has always been one of the Mazda CX-5’s greatest strengths, and the 2023 model continues that tradition. While many compact SUVs prioritize comfort above all else, Mazda has managed to create a vehicle that feels both refined and engaging without sacrificing practicality.
From the moment you begin driving, the steering immediately stands out. It feels precise, well weighted, and more connected than what is typically found in this segment. Whether navigating city streets or tackling winding back roads, the CX-5 responds confidently to driver inputs and delivers a level of involvement that many competitors simply cannot match.
The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 187 horsepower and provides smooth, predictable performance for everyday driving. Acceleration is adequate for commuting, highway merging, and family road trips. Buyers seeking stronger performance can move up to the turbocharged engine, which transforms the CX-5 into one of the quickest and most enjoyable SUVs in its class.
Mazda’s six-speed automatic transmission deserves credit as well. While some rivals advertise transmissions with more gears, the CX-5’s gearbox remains smooth, responsive, and well calibrated. Gear changes feel natural, and the transmission rarely hunts for gears during normal driving conditions.
Another advantage is the standard all-wheel-drive system. Unlike some competitors that reserve AWD for expensive trims, every CX-5 receives the added confidence of four-wheel traction. This improves stability during rain, snow, and slippery road conditions while also enhancing overall driver confidence.
Ride quality strikes an excellent balance between comfort and control. The suspension absorbs rough pavement effectively while maintaining impressive composure through corners. Many SUVs feel either too soft or overly firm, but the CX-5 manages to avoid both extremes.
What ultimately makes the CX-5 so appealing is its personality. It feels less like a typical family crossover and more like a vehicle designed for people who genuinely enjoy driving. Even after years on the market, few compact SUVs offer a more rewarding experience from behind the wheel.
Performance & Acceleration
The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offers buyers a choice between two very different personalities. Most trims are powered by a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, while higher trims receive a turbocharged version that significantly boosts performance. This flexibility allows the CX-5 to appeal to both budget-conscious families and driving enthusiasts.
For everyday use, the standard engine is perfectly adequate. It delivers smooth acceleration, predictable throttle response, and enough power for commuting, highway merging, and weekend road trips. While it may not feel especially quick compared to some turbocharged rivals, it rarely feels underpowered during normal driving.
The available turbocharged engine is where the CX-5 becomes genuinely exciting. Producing up to 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel, it transforms the vehicle into one of the quickest compact SUVs in the segment. Strong mid-range torque makes overtaking slower traffic effortless and gives the CX-5 a noticeably more premium driving character.
Both engines are paired with a smooth six-speed automatic transmission that prioritizes responsiveness over efficiency-focused programming. While competitors often rely on CVTs, Mazda’s traditional automatic helps create a more natural and engaging driving experience that many drivers will appreciate.
Ride Comfort & Cabin Refinement
One of the reasons the Mazda CX-5 has remained competitive for so many years is its ability to deliver a comfortable ride without sacrificing driver involvement. Many compact SUVs lean heavily toward comfort or handling, but the CX-5 manages to balance both surprisingly well.
Around town, the suspension absorbs potholes, expansion joints, and rough pavement with confidence. The ride feels controlled and mature rather than overly soft, preventing the floaty sensation that affects some competitors. Even on less-than-perfect roads, passengers remain comfortable without excessive body movement.
Highway refinement is equally impressive. Wind noise is kept to a minimum, road noise is well suppressed, and the cabin remains pleasantly quiet during long-distance travel. This makes the CX-5 an excellent companion for road trips, where comfort becomes increasingly important after several hours behind the wheel.
The seats deserve special recognition. Mazda designed them with long-distance comfort in mind, providing excellent support for both the driver and front passenger. Higher trims further improve the experience with leather upholstery, heating, ventilation, and additional adjustment options.
Perhaps most impressive is how refined the CX-5 feels compared with its price point. Many mainstream compact SUVs perform well in one area but struggle in another. The CX-5 delivers comfort, composure, and quietness that often feel closer to an entry-level luxury vehicle than a traditional family crossover.
Interior & Luxury Feel
Step inside the 2023 Mazda CX-5 and it quickly becomes clear why many buyers cross-shop it against entry-level luxury SUVs. While competitors often focus on maximizing screen size or adding flashy design elements, Mazda has taken a more sophisticated approach centered around quality and craftsmanship.
The dashboard design is clean, elegant, and intentionally uncluttered. Controls are logically positioned, materials feel substantial, and the overall layout creates an immediate sense of refinement. Rather than overwhelming occupants with visual complexity, the CX-5 emphasizes simplicity and usability.
Material quality remains one of the vehicle’s greatest strengths. Soft-touch surfaces cover most major contact points, while higher trims introduce genuine premium touches including leather upholstery, real stitching details, wood accents, and upscale trim finishes. The attention to detail is evident throughout the cabin.
Fit and finish are equally impressive. Panel gaps are tight, buttons operate with satisfying precision, and nothing feels inexpensive or poorly assembled. Even several years into its production cycle, the CX-5 continues to set a benchmark for interior quality among mainstream compact SUVs.
Passenger comfort is generally excellent. Front-seat occupants enjoy supportive seating and a driving position that feels natural and ergonomic. Rear-seat space is respectable, although not class-leading, but the overall atmosphere of the cabin helps compensate for that limitation. Few competitors create the same sense of quality every time you open the door, which remains one of the CX-5’s biggest advantages.
Technology & Infotainment
The 2023 Mazda CX-5 may not have the largest screen in the segment, but its technology package remains competitive and thoughtfully designed. Most trims feature a 10.25-inch infotainment display positioned high on the dashboard, allowing drivers to view information without taking their eyes too far off the road.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available, making smartphone integration seamless for navigation, music streaming, messaging, and calls. Higher trims add features such as a premium Bose audio system, navigation, wireless charging, and additional connected services that enhance everyday convenience.
The biggest adjustment for new owners is Mazda’s rotary controller. Rather than relying entirely on touchscreen inputs, Mazda prefers a console-mounted control knob. While it takes some time to learn, many owners eventually appreciate its ability to reduce distractions while driving. Still, buyers accustomed to touchscreen-heavy competitors may initially find the system less intuitive.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy remains respectable throughout the CX-5 lineup. Models equipped with the standard 2.5-liter engine deliver competitive efficiency for a compact SUV with standard all-wheel drive, helping keep operating costs reasonable for daily commuters and families.
Turbocharged models naturally consume more fuel, but the performance gains are significant enough that many buyers will gladly accept the trade-off. Even in turbo form, the CX-5 remains competitive with several similarly powered rivals.
The overall result is a balanced approach. The CX-5 may not be the efficiency champion of the segment, but it combines respectable fuel economy with superior driving dynamics, creating a package that feels well rounded rather than overly focused on a single metric.
Practicality & Cargo Space
Practicality has always been an important consideration in the compact SUV segment, and while the Mazda CX-5 performs reasonably well in this area, it is not the class leader. Buyers who prioritize maximum cargo capacity may notice that some competitors offer more room for passengers and luggage.
The cargo area itself is well shaped and easy to access thanks to the wide rear opening. Grocery runs, luggage, sports equipment, and everyday family gear fit comfortably, making the CX-5 more than capable of handling typical daily responsibilities.
The rear seats fold flat to create a larger cargo area when needed, significantly improving versatility. Whether transporting furniture, camping equipment, or larger household items, the CX-5 can adapt to a variety of situations without much difficulty.
Passenger space is generally comfortable, especially for front-seat occupants. However, rear-seat room is merely average by modern standards. Rivals such as the Honda CR-V and Hyundai Tucson provide more spacious accommodations for taller passengers, particularly on longer journeys.
This is ultimately where the CX-5 makes its biggest compromise. Mazda chose to prioritize styling, driving dynamics, and premium cabin materials over maximizing interior volume. Buyers seeking the most cargo space in the segment may be better served by a CR-V, Tucson, or RAV4, but those who value refinement and driving enjoyment will likely find the CX-5’s practicality more than sufficient for everyday life.
Safety & Driver Assistance
Safety has long been one of the Mazda CX-5’s strongest selling points, and the 2023 model continues that tradition. Mazda equips every CX-5 with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies, ensuring that even lower trims offer a reassuring level of protection for drivers and passengers.
Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control, and driver attention monitoring. These systems work seamlessly in the background and rarely feel intrusive during normal driving.
The CX-5 has also earned an excellent reputation in crash testing. Its strong structural design and advanced safety technologies have helped it achieve top ratings from major safety organizations, making it one of the safest compact SUVs available in its class.
Higher trim levels add further convenience and confidence through features such as traffic sign recognition, front and rear parking sensors, a surround-view camera system, and additional driver-assistance enhancements. These upgrades are especially useful in crowded urban environments and tight parking situations.
What ultimately stands out is Mazda’s calibration of these systems. Many competitors overwhelm drivers with constant warnings and alerts, while the CX-5 strikes a better balance. The technologies are effective when needed but remain unobtrusive during everyday driving, helping create a safer and less stressful ownership experience.
Competitors Worth Considering
The Toyota RAV4 remains one of the CX-5′s most significant competitors. It offers outstanding reliability, strong resale value, and a wider variety of powertrains, including hybrid options. Buyers focused on efficiency and long-term ownership costs may find the Toyota particularly appealing.
The Honda CR-V is another excellent alternative. It provides a roomier cabin, greater cargo capacity, and a comfortable ride that makes it one of the most family-friendly choices in the segment. Recent redesigns have also helped keep it near the top of many buyers’ shopping lists.
Meanwhile, the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage deliver impressive technology, modern interiors, and generous warranty coverage. However, the Mazda CX-5 continues to hold an advantage when it comes to premium cabin quality and overall driving enjoyment, making it the enthusiast’s choice among mainstream compact SUVs.
Which Trim Does Cardrav Recommend?
For most buyers, the CX-5 2.5 S Preferred represents the sweet spot of the lineup. It adds desirable upgrades such as heated front seats, a power liftgate, power-adjustable seating, and additional convenience features without dramatically increasing the purchase price.
While the turbocharged models are undeniably tempting, the Preferred trim offers the best balance of value, comfort, technology, and everyday usability. It captures everything that makes the CX-5 appealing while remaining accessible to the widest range of buyers.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?
The 2023 Mazda CX-5 remains one of the most complete compact SUVs on the market. Even though newer competitors have entered the segment, Mazda’s combination of premium styling, excellent driving dynamics, refined comfort, and strong safety credentials continues to make the CX-5 highly competitive.
Its greatest strength is how cohesive the overall package feels. Rather than excelling in only one area, the CX-5 performs well across nearly every category that matters to SUV buyers. It looks expensive, feels refined, and delivers a level of driver engagement that few rivals can match.
There are certainly compromises. Cargo capacity is not class-leading, rear-seat room could be more generous, and the infotainment controls require some adaptation. Buyers seeking maximum practicality may find better options elsewhere.
However, for shoppers who want a compact SUV that feels genuinely upscale without entering luxury-brand pricing territory, the 2023 Mazda CX-5 remains one of the strongest recommendations in its class. It continues to prove that good design and excellent driving manners never go out of style.
FAQ
Is the 2023 Mazda CX-5 a reliable SUV?
Yes. The Mazda CX-5 has built a strong reputation for reliability over multiple generations. Its proven powertrains, solid build quality, and relatively straightforward engineering make it one of the more dependable compact SUVs available.
Does the 2023 Mazda CX-5 come with all-wheel drive?
Yes. One of the CX-5’s biggest advantages is that all-wheel drive comes standard across the entire 2023 lineup, unlike many competitors that charge extra for it.
Which engine is better in the 2023 Mazda CX-5?
The standard 2.5-liter engine is sufficient for most buyers and offers a good balance of performance and efficiency. Drivers seeking stronger acceleration should consider the turbocharged engine, which delivers significantly more power and torque.
Is the 2023 Mazda CX-5 better than the Toyota RAV4?
The answer depends on priorities. The RAV4 offers more cargo space and available hybrid powertrains, while the CX-5 provides a more premium interior, sharper handling, and a more enjoyable driving experience.
What is the best 2023 Mazda CX-5 trim to buy?
For most shoppers, the CX-5 2.5 S Preferred delivers the best value. It includes many desirable comfort and convenience features while avoiding the substantial price increase associated with higher trims.
