2022 Mazda CX 5 Review – The 2022 Mazda CX-5 crossover SUV stands out for its frisky, fun-to-drive nature, despite being one of the hottest-selling segments in the American automotive marketplace.
The compact SUV segment is dominated by pleasant, but unadventurous vehicles like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, which have great carry capacity and versatility.
Although it loses cargo capacity, the new Mazda CX-5 gets better handling, a sophisticated exterior design, and an interior that would fit in a luxury crossover for the 2022 model year.
For the past several years, Mazda CX-5 has been based on the same platform, but in 2022, the vehicle will receive significant changes to both look and feel.
The aesthetic modifications concentrate on refining the Kodo design philosophy, while the mechanical improvements boost the vehicle’s already excellent “driver’s car” status.
History of Mazda CX 5
The Mazda CX-5 shows that owning a crossover doesn’t have to sacrifice driving pleasure due to its agile handling and responsive steering.
Compared to its competitors in the category, the CX-5 places great emphasis on dynamic driving dynamics, despite the relatively spacious interior size.
History
Mazda produced the Tribute prior to the CX-5, which was a rebadged Ford Escape with four- and six-cylinder engine configurations from the early 2000s through 2011.
From the 2007 model year until its retirement in 2012, the Tribute was a “tweener” vehicle that bridged the compact and midsize classes.
Instead of the Tribute’s optional engine, the Mazda CX-7 had a 244-hp 2.3-liter turbo-four, similar to the Mazdaspeed3 and Mazdaspeed6.
The Mazda CX-5, introduced as a 2013 model in 2012, replaces the Tribute with the Mazda CX-7.
The Mazda CX-5 is the first vehicle to reveal the full Skyactiv suite, which includes the platform, engine, suspension, and body.
The CX-5’s engine is a 155-horsepower 2.0-liter I-4 that can be mated to a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox.
The CX-5 lineup was expanded in 2014, with the 184-horsepower 2.5-liter I-4 replacing the 2.0-liter as the base model.
The Latest Generation
The Mazda CX-5 received improvements such as adaptive LED headlights, a redesigned front beak, LED foglights, and the MazdaConnect infotainment system with a 7.0-inch screen during the Mazda CX 5 2017 model year.
Because of its sharp steering, quick throttle, and athletic handling, the Mazda CX-5 is a joy to drive.
When you switch to Sport mode, everything sharpens steering, throttle response, gear response, and handling.
This is one of the most fun-to-drive crossovers in the segment in regular driver mode. Body roll is minor since it grips the roadway as though it were wearing a coupe’s body, we remarked as we tossed it around a bit.
In 2019, the CX-5 received Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity, as well as additional trim levels.
The following model year saw the addition of automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and other active safety features.
Among the changes for 2022 were standard AWD, a redesigned six-speed automatic gearbox, enhanced suspension, and a new look.
Read also: Mazda SUV Models List
What’s New for 2022 Mazda CX 5?
For the 2022 model year, Mazda improves the CX-5’s already attractive front and rear bodywork.
Its grille also becomes more individual with a new three-dimensional mesh finish and wings that spread outwards towards the redesigned LED headlights.
To make the chairs more comfortable, the inside has been reinforced. The transmission has been refined in terms of smoothness and responsiveness, according to Mazda.
Similarly, the CX-5’s handling and ride are expected to be improved thanks to suspension improvements.
All models come standard with all-wheel drive, and the SUV’s driving behavior has been enhanced.
The Grand Touring Reserve trim has been renamed Turbo, and the top-tier Signature trim features body-color cladding rather than the previous dark color.
The power output of the turbo four increases by 6 to 256 horsepower when premium gas is utilized.
Exterior Styling Differences
The most noticeable exterior changes to the 2022 Mazda CX 5 are the redesigned front fascia and grille.
The Mazda “winged-M” logo, which extends out from the grille, currently has a wing that looks like this.
While it now has a 3-dimensional texture rather than a mesh surface, the grille still has the same logo.
The bottom section of the grille, which is now body color, is encircled by a U-shaped chrome bar, while the upper section is chrome.
On each side, two rectangular LED headlights flank the grille. The 2022 Mazda CX 5 redesigned LED taillights are stunning.
In addition to making an extra effort to distinguish it from non-Turbo trims, Mazda added 19-inch alloy wheels and a body-colored lower bumper and wheel arches to the top-level Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Signature.
A glossy black grille with red highlights, a chromeless black signature wing, and 19-inch chromeless alloy wheels are available on the new (and less costly) 2.5 Turbo version.
To match the 2022 model year’s exterior changes, all CX-5 trims will feature new aluminum alloy wheels.
Read also: Mazda CX 5 Colors
Chassis and Driving Mode Changes
For 2022, Mazda engineers boosted the unibody stiffness of the CX-5 in order to enhance passenger comfort and stability.
This helps to eliminate vibrations by suppressing some and tuning out others. The CX-5 Turbo Signature was put to the test with reduced cabin harshness and noise as a result of its improved rigidity.
The improved handling is a bonus, as it was previously found in the CX-5. To complement the increased body stiffness, Mazda has added Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive).
Mazda created the technology to enable the driver to pick from three distinct driving modes in order to maximize driving capability according to the terrain and circumstances.
Mi-Drive, like similar drive-mode switches in comparable devices, works with a flick of a switch, but the philosophy behind Mi-Drive is different from those of other devices.
For example, the Mazda system engineers recommend leaving the system Normal and allowing it to compensate for surface friction on a millisecond-by-millisecond basis.
While other systems might have settings for Mud, Snow, and Sand. The transmission must hold gears longer in sport mode, which alters the tip-in and overall throttle response.
When there is a trailer attached, the Mi-Drive Towing mode is accessible. Mazda engineers claim that their target is for the driver to have a very similar feel in each mode.
Despite the system doing the heavy lifting of deciding how to achieve that through the levers available through technology.
As a result, the 2022 new Mazda CX 5 has a consistent driving feel over any surface and is easier for the driver.
Interior Design and Equipment Changes
The biggest improvement in the Mazda CX-5 is done on the seats. The seats were redesigned by Mazda designers and engineers to provide greater passenger stability, in keeping with their “human-centric philosophy”, which is cited as the motivation for the redesign.
As a consequence of the opportunity, several CX-5 trims’ upholstery and stitching were upgraded.
Mazda’s top-of-the-line 2.5 Turbo Signature received Caturra Brown Nappa leather trim seats. Heated and ventilated seats are available in the front and back of the car.
Read also: Best Seat Covers for Mazda CX 5
The new, sporty 2.5 Turbo trim gets a black leather interior with red stitching on the seats and accents. The S Select trim comes with leatherette seats with faux-suede inserts.
The Mazda 2.5 S Carbon Edition comes standard with upgraded leather-trimmed seats, a leather-wrapped gear selector, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with red stitching.
Turbo versions are distinguished from non-turbos by other interior improvements. For example, the Mazda 2.5 Turbo Signature trim features layered genuine wood accents, and the 2.5 Turbo has red stitching and trims to emphasize its performance orientation.
Read also: Best Car Interiors 2022
All-Wheel Drive and Suspension Changes
The Mazda CX-5 lineup’s decision to offer AWD as a standard option for the 2022 model year will have a significant impact.
Mazda-quality handling was available in the front-drive versions, and front-wheel drive trims were offered previously.
However, Mazda’s i-Activ AWD system has been standardized, which will help improve the driving experience.
This phrase also reflects Mazda’s interest in competing with Audi and Volvo in the premium/luxury marketplaces.
While the Mazda CX-5 has some notable pavement benefits, it also possesses respectable off-road capabilities thanks to its i-Activ AWD system.
Based on vehicle weight transfer detected via acceleration and cornering stresses, the system adaptively modifies power to the appropriate wheels in milliseconds.
Mazda claims that the CX-5 can react more quickly to driver instructions and variations in surface friction under just one wheel as a result of this.
It has obvious uses while driving, allowing you to keep track of the direction while maintaining pace.
Rather than requiring the driver to constantly adjust the steering angle, the goal is to provide a car response that matches driver input.
This boosts vehicle predictability and driving enjoyment, resulting in a significantly more pleasant driving experience on tough two-lane roads.
The basic i-Activ AWD suspension upgrades on the Mazda CX-5 are a welcome addition.
Because of modifications to the damping control architecture, the suspension works in concert with the sophisticated AWD and Mi-Drive mode selection system.
Pricing
The Mazda CX-5 base price does not increase much for the new model 2022 starting MSRP of $27,125, despite adding all-wheel drive as standard equipment and receiving numerous updates.
All 2022 versions are now a bit cheaper than comparable 2021 CX-5 AWD models, with all-wheel drive being an additional $1400 option on most configurations of this compact crossover.
The CX-5’s trim levels are no longer classified by the old Sport, Touring, or Grand Touring labels.
Additional features are available in the CX-5 2.5 S, which starts at $29,125 and goes up to $35,175 for the Premium Plus package.
The CX-5 2.5 Turbo model starts at $37,625, and it features a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter inline-four with 187 horsepower.
The boosted power has risen from 240 to 256 horsepower in the turbo engine. Despite running on premium fuel, Mazda claims the same 227 horsepower output on regular fuel as before.
The Signature variant of the 2022 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo starts at $39,875, up $1195 from last year’s model.
The Carbon Edition continues on, starting at $31,505, and no longer includes the turbocharged engine, although it is still available with a unique color scheme.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
When driving away from stoplights or speeding around town, the standard 187-horsepower four-cylinder engine of the Mazda CX-5 feels quicker than it really is.
It feels underpowered at faster speeds, such as when attempting to pass or merge onto the highway. The testers found that the 256-horsepower turbocharged version accelerated more quicker.
Both engines feature a quick six-speed automated gearbox with all-wheel drive. To enjoy or appreciate the CX-5, you don’t have to push it very hard. The car’s precise steering and cornering make for a fantastic Sunday drive.
It also has the ride quality of crossovers that cost twice as much, however it soaks up rough roads without making a lot of noise. Its competitors cannot match this harmonious balance of dynamics.
There isn’t much road noise, the flaws are isolated, and the damping isn’t harsh or floaty. Mazda revives itself on twisty roads at the same moment.
It has good responses due to the electrically assisted steering. The Signature model we tested gave excellent brake pedal feel with no delay and no sensitivity when you applied the brakes.
Read also: Mazda CX 5 Towing Capacity
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The Mazda CX-5 has mediocre fuel economy for its class. Models with the basic engine have a 24 mpg EPA rating in the city and a 30 mpg EPA rating on the highway. Turbocharged vehicles achieve 22/27 mpg on city/highway journeys.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Interior Quality
One of the CX 5’s most prominent features is its Mazda CX 5 2022 interior. The Mazda’s cabin is stylish and comfortable, providing it with a premium feel.
It features high-quality plastics and soft-touch components throughout the cabin, as well as exquisite stitching in the dashboard, steering wheel, and doors.
Comfort
It has a sophisticated feel due to its high-quality materials and layout. The well-crafted steering wheel is positioned immediately in front of the driver rather than at a small angle, and all of the front-seat armrests are at the same height to provide optimum comfort.
The floor-hinged accelerator pedal is replaced with the more common variant that hangs from above the ground.
Cargo Space
The Mazda CX-5 has a weak cargo area., the CX-5 has a 29.1 cubic foot cargo area and a 58.1 cubic foot cargo area when the rear seat is lowered.
It’s practical, yet it doesn’t have the spaciousness of the Hyundai Tucson and Honda CR-V. Behind the back seats, several suitcases may be stored.
How Many People Does the CX-5 Seat?
The Mazda CX-5 can seat five people. The rear seats aren’t as roomy as those of some competitors, and they’re best suited for children on long excursions.
To offer a more pleasant and supportive experience, the front seats have been refurbished.
Infotainment
The infotainment system in the CX-5 is difficult to master. Instead of a touchscreen, this system uses a knob controller on the console, voice commands, and buttons on the steering wheel to carry out instructions on the large display.
While driving, the knobs and buttons are within reach, but they may be distracting because of how close they are. Additionally, some features are hidden in various menus.
- Standard infotainment features: Mazda Connected Services, a Wi-Fi hotspot, Bluetooth, two USB ports, and a four-speaker stereo are all available on this 10.25-inch display
- Available infotainment features: satellite radio, navigation, and two rear USB ports are all standard on the six-speaker stereo with a 10-speaker Bose sound system
- Other available features: a digital instrument cluster display with dual-zone automatic climate control, moonroof, a universal garage door opener, ambient interior lighting, and proximity keyless entry
Safety
The 2022 Mazda CX-5 received the top rating of Good in all six crash evaluations from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, which also gave it a Top Safety Pick rating.
The Mazda CX-5 received a Good or Acceptable rating for how well the headlights illuminate the road ahead, depending on trim and options.
The IIHS uses a separate scale to rate collision avoidance features. In both cases, the vehicle-to-vehicle front crash prevention system got the highest rating of Superior, followed by a midtier rating of Advanced for the vehicle-to-pedestrian system.
The Mazda CX-5 received a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In the frontal and side crash tests, the CX-5 received five stars, while in the rollover test, it received four stars.
RELATED: Best Mazda CX 5 Trim 2022
Warranty
The Mazda CX-5 comes with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile engine warranty.
- A limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
- The powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
2022 Mazda CX-5 Release Date
The Mazda CX-5 has been around since 2012, and it’s about time for an update – but what will the new model be like?
There’s plenty of conflicting information out there, so let’s cut through all the speculation and find out what we know so far.
Join us as we give you a rundown of the latest rumors surrounding the 2022 Mazda CX-5 release date, specs, redesign, price, and competition!
When the 2022 Mazda CX-5 release date finally arrives in the coming winter months, crossover fans around the world will be spoiled for choice.
If you love versatile vehicles that easily convert to additional cargo or passenger space, you’ve come to the right place.
Mazda CX-5 Other Years:
The Final Verdict
In 2022, the Mazda CX-5 offers sporty handling, a comfortable ride, a slew of standard safety features, and a stunning interior.
While it lacks rear seats and cargo capacity, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 is a good automobile if you can accept its limits. It’s not nearly as practical as some of its competitors without those features.
