MSRP: From $29,050
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Overview
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 is a compact crossover with a focus on driving engagement and interior quality. The 2.5 S trims use a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with 187 hp and 186 lb-ft. Turbo models use a turbocharged 2.5-liter delivering 256 hp and 320 lb-ft on premium fuel, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular. Every model pairs with a 6-speed automatic and standard i-Activ AWD. The lineup spans eight trims, priced from $29,050 to $41,080. Cargo space measures 30.8 cu-ft behind the rear seats and expands to 59.3 cu-ft. Towing capacity is 2,000 lbs.
Mazda
What’s New for 2025
The 2025 CX-5 gets a new Carbon Edition appearance trim for the 2.5 S and comes with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and a wireless charging pad. The Premium Plus 2.5 S trims gain front and rear parking sensors and a surround-view camera. The naturally aspirated Premium trim has been dropped.
Pricing increases by $280 across most trims. AWD remains standard. This generation dates to 2017, with a redesign due for 2026. The 2.5 S now starts below $30,000. The 2.5 S Premium is discontinued.
Exterior
The Mazda CX-5 compact crossover uses Mazda’s Kodo design language with sculpted surfaces and a wing grille. The 2.5 S rides on 17-inch wheels, while Preferred and Carbon Edition models use 19-inch wheels. The Carbon Edition features Polymetal Gray paint with gloss-black accents. It measures 180.1 inches long on a 106.2-inch wheelbase.
Mazda
CX-5
Mazda
Interior
Inside, the Mazda CX-5 centers around a 10.25-inch display running Mazda Connect with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless functionality included on Premium Plus trims and higher. A rotary commander controls the system. The 2.5 S uses cloth upholstery, while the S Preferred adds leather, power-adjustable seats, and a moonroof.
Premium Plus introduces ventilated front seats, wireless charging, and a Bose audio system. The Turbo Signature sits at the top with Nappa leather, wood trim, and navigation. Cargo space totals 30.8 cu-ft and creates a flat load floor when the rear seats fold. Rear legroom trails key competitors like the CR-V and RAV4.
Joe Santos
Mazda
Kristen Brown
Price Range and Best Value Trim
The 2025 Mazda CX-5’s price spans multiple trims. All prices exclude the $1,495 destination fee, and AWD is standard.
| Trim | Engine | Price |
| 2.5 S | 2.5L NA | $29,050 |
| 2.5 S Select | 2.5 NA | $30,380 |
| 2.5 S Preferred | 2.5L NA | $32,230 |
| 2.5 S Carbon Edition | 2.5 NA | $32,630 |
| 2.5 S Premium Plus | 2.5L NA | $35,680 |
| 2.5 Turbo Premium | 2.5L Turbo | $38,280 |
| 2.5 Turbo Signature | 2.5L Turbo | $41,080 |
The $32K S Preferred is excellent value with features such as leather upholstery, a moonroof, and power front seats. The Turbo Premium at $38,280 offers the best value among the boosted trims. The Turbo Signature at $41,080 adds Nappa leather and wood trim, pushing the experience closer to luxury territory.
2025 Mazda CX-5 Key Specs
Powertrain Options
| Engine | HP | Torque | Drive | Transmission |
| 2.5L Skyactiv-G | 187 hp | 186 lb-ft | AWD | 6-speed auto |
| 2.5L Skyactiv-G Turbo | 256 hp | 320 lb-ft | AWD | 6-speed auto |
Turbo on regular fuel: 227 hp / 310 lb-ft
Fuel Economy (MPG)
| Config | City | Highway | Combined | Range |
| 2.5L NA (S/Carbon Ed.) | 26 | 30 | 28 | 428 mi |
| 2.5L NA AWD (S/Preferred) | 23 | 29 | 25 | 382 mi |
| 2.5L Turbo AWD | 22 | 27 | 24 | 367 mi |
Seating: 5
Fuel: Regular (NA) / Regular or Premium (Turbo)
Towing: 2,000 lbs
Dimensions
| Length x Width x Height | 180.1 / 72.6 / 66.1 in |
| Wheelbase | 106.2 in |
| Headroom Front / Rear | 39.3 – 39.7 / 39.0 in |
| Legroom Front / Rear | 41.0 / 39.6 in |
| Cargo Capacity w/ Rear Seats Up / Down | 30.8 / 59.3 cu-ft |
Warranty
| Coverage | Term |
| Basic Vehicle | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
| Powertrain | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
| Complimentary Maintenance | Not included |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Best-in-class driving dynamics make the CX-5 enjoyable on twisty roads
- Interior materials rival luxury competitors at mainstream prices
- Standard AWD on every trim adds all-weather confidence
- Turbo engine delivers strong acceleration and 2,000-lb towing
- S Preferred at $32,230 includes leather, moonroof, and power seats
Cons:
- Rear cargo space and legroom trail rivals
- 6-speed automatic feels dated against newer transmissions
- No hybrid or electrified option
- Turbo Signature at $41,080 approaches luxury pricing
- Infotainment relies on a controller while driving
Verdict
The CX-5 continues to stand out as the driver-focused option in the compact crossover segment. Its chassis tuning, steering feel, and body control create a level of engagement that competitors at this price rarely match. The S Preferred at $32,230 hits a practical balance, adding leather upholstery, a moonroof, power seats, and a power liftgate while keeping costs in check. Turbo models shift the character noticeably, with strong performance but also high pricing.
Limitations remain clear. Cargo capacity at 30.8 cu-ft and tighter rear legroom fall behind key rivals. The 6-speed automatic performs smoothly but lacks the efficiency gains seen in newer transmissions. With a redesigned model on the horizon, the outgoing version may attract strong dealer incentives, making it a smart pick for buyers who prioritize driving feel in this segment.
Kristen Brown
Competitors
About the author
Cobus F. Potgieter
Reviews and Features Editor