2.5 S 4dr i-ACTIV All-Wheel Drive Sport Utility
2022 Mazda CX-5

As we see it, there are two main reasons to choose a 2022 Mazda CX-5 over any number of its many compact SUV competitors. First, you like the idea of sitting high and having some extra utility on occasion, but would happily trade max family-friendly utility for a higher-quality interior, sleek styling and a sharper driving experience. Basically, single folks, DINKs, empty nesters. Second, you are in need of a family-friendly vehicle, but you're used to driving a smaller, more agile car and you're dreading trading it in for a, gulp, family-friendly vehicle. We feel your pain. If either of these sounds like you, then the CX-5 is a terrific choice, and indeed it's one of our top-recommended compact SUVs. It's great to drive, great to look at and in top trim levels, makes for a viable alternative to some luxury SUVs. It strikes an emotional chord in a way few competitors can. That said, it is smaller and less functional than the RAV4s and CR-Vs of the world. It's also less efficient and doesn't offer a hybrid powertrain. So, it may not check off every box, but for the right type of buyers, it doesn't need to.   Interior & Technology   |   Passenger & Cargo Space   |   Performance & Fuel Economy What it's like to drive   |   Pricing & Features   |   Crash Ratings & Safety Features What's new for 2022? Every CX-5 now comes standard with all-wheel drive, joining the Subaru Forester as the only vehicles in their segment to do so. The styling is also subtly updated for 2022, including new LED head- and taillight elements, a new three-dimensional grille insert surrounded by redesigned chrome trim, new bumper designs and larger dual tailpipes. The range-topping Signature, pictured here, gains body-colored lower body trim and fender flares. Those pieces remain black on all other trims. You can see the visual differences between the 2022 and 2021 above. Changes were also made to the suspension and frame to reduce noise and vibration, and increase ride comfort. Transmission response was also improved and the available turbo engine produces more power when using 93 octane. The front seats were also redesigned. Finally, there are new trim levels for 2022. What are the CX-5 interior and in-car technology like? The CX-5 boasts a handsome, upscale design with materials to match, exuding a premium vibe that none of its direct competitors can match. Its top trim levels have seats that are heated all around and ventilated up front, plus high-quality leather with contrast French stitching. The Signature gets unique Catarra Brown Nappa leather, shown here. The padded and stitched pleather on the dash, doors and center console are a nice touch too, as is the alloy trim — especially the air vents that seem to jut out from within the dash. Admittedly, fancier touches like the Signature's wood-look trim are absent on lower trim levels, but the overall interior ambience remains more premium and stylish than those of most competitors — especially something like …
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