2024 Mazda CX-5 Review: Premium Compact SUV With Class-Leading Refinements
The Evolution of Mazda's Best-Selling SUV
The compact SUV market continues to dominate automotive sales, and Mazda's redesigned CX-5 enters this competitive segment with sophisticated upgrades that build on its predecessor's success. MotorVero's in-depth analysis reveals how the latest iteration maintains Mazda's reputation for premium interior quality while introducing subtle but impactful design enhancements.
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Exterior Design: Evolutionary Refinement
The 2024 CX-5 represents a thoughtful evolution of Mazda's KODO design language rather than a complete revolution. Our design experts note three key exterior improvements:
- Signature grille enhancement: The wider, more pronounced grille creates a bolder front fascia while maintaining brand identity
- Streamlined body contours: Smoother body sides with crisper character lines improve aerodynamic efficiency
- Modern lighting signatures: Thinner LED taillights and revised headlight clusters provide contemporary styling
While photographs may understate the changes, side-by-side comparisons reveal meaningful dimensional differences:
| Dimension | 2024 CX-5 | Previous Model |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Length | 180.1 in | 179.1 in |
| Wheelbase | 106.2 in | 106.2 in |
| Track Width | 62.4 in (front) | 62.0 in (front) |
Interior Craftsmanship: Luxury in the Compact Segment
Mazda continues its upmarket push with CX-5 cabin improvements that challenge luxury competitors:
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Key Interior Upgrades
- Redesigned dashboard architecture: Flatter surface with distinctive pentagonal air vents creates modern aesthetic
- Intuitive control layout: Physical knobs for climate and audio systems (unlike touch-sensitive competitors)
- Premium material selection: Available Nappa leather, genuine aluminum trim, and soft-touch surfaces throughout
- Enhanced ergonomics: 8-way power driver's seat with memory function on higher trims
Competitive Positioning in the Compact SUV Market
The 2024 CX-5 enters a fiercely contested segment. Here's how it compares to key rivals:
Strengths Against Competition
- Interior quality: Surpasses Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 in material quality and design sophistication
- Driving dynamics: Maintains Mazda's sporty handling character while improving ride comfort
- Standard features: Includes more premium amenities in base models than many competitors
Areas for Consideration
- Cargo capacity: Slightly less behind rear seats than segment leaders (30.9 cu ft vs. Honda CR-V's 39.3 cu ft)
- Hybrid option: Currently lacks hybrid powertrain available in Toyota RAV4 and Ford Escape
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Technology and Safety Enhancements
The 2024 CX-5 introduces meaningful tech upgrades while maintaining user-friendly controls:
Infotainment System
- 10.25" center display (up from 8" previously)
- Standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Available 12-speaker Bose premium audio system
- Revised Mazda Connect interface with improved responsiveness
Advanced Safety Features
- Standard Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go
- Available 360-degree camera system
- Enhanced pedestrian detection for city driving
- New traffic sign recognition system
Driving Experience: Refined Performance
Mazda's focus on driver engagement remains evident in the updated CX-5:
Powertrain Options
- Standard 2.5L 4-cylinder: 187 hp / 186 lb-ft torque (191 hp with 93 octane fuel)
- Available turbocharged 2.5L: 227 hp / 310 lb-ft torque (256 hp with 93 octane)
- 6-speed automatic transmission with sport mode
- Available i-Activ AWD with off-road traction assist
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Chassis Improvements
- Revised suspension tuning for better ride comfort
- Enhanced sound insulation for quieter cabin
- G-Vectoring Control Plus for improved cornering stability
Trim Level Breakdown and Value Proposition
The 2024 CX-5 offers six well-equipped trim levels to suit different budgets:
| Trim | Starting MSRP | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| S | $27,900 | 10.25" display, LED lights, push-button start |
| Select | $29,900 | Dual-zone climate, power driver seat, blind spot monitoring |
| Preferred | $32,900 | Leather seats, power liftgate, 10-way power driver seat |
| Premium | $35,900 | Bose audio, heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats |
| Premium Plus | $38,900 | Turbo engine, 360-degree camera, traffic sign recognition |
| Signature | $41,900 | Nappa leather, real wood trim, frameless rearview mirror |
