Mazda CX-5 Review // Still top of class?? 

I have owned my 2020 Mazda CX-5 Signature for one week now. I wake up in the morning and the first thing I want to do is go for a drive. I absolutely love this vehicle. The 310 pounds feet of torque is what makes it so much fun. The fit and finish is incredible. I don’t care about badging and nowhere on the outside of this vehicle does it say “ Signature” This is my second new Mazda, my 2015 Mazda GT with the tech package was also considered very expensive for a mainstream brand . That car was flawless for the 5 1/2 years I drove it. It had the 2.5 non turbo and was not a gutless vehicle, but nothing like this amazing 2.5 Turbo. Bottom line is the Mazda brand is considered a mainstream brand to most people, but to most Mazda owners it is considered the top brand. Zoom Zoom.

When I was shopping for a compact SUV's I tested all of the brands within my price point CX-5, Rav4, CR-V Subaru Forester and Ford Escape. I learned about the reliability because a test drive doesn't really give you that info . I talked to people that owned some of these vehicles (didn't know a Forester owner), then decided on a CX-5 Signature. And through the entire buying process one thing I learned that left me totally confused was how few CX-5 are sold compared to the other models I listed considering how much better the Mazda is compared to the rest. The CX-5 has no business being compared to these other models considering it is just that much better in all aspects except for space, but the fact that you can get one for a few 100 more is mind blowing. I really don't understand how the CX 5 don't have sales number of the CR V or RAV4. I did sit in some or the premium models like RDX , BMW x3 and Audi Q5. Now for sure the CX 5 is not a direct comparison with these models and there could be a case made for why any of these are better than the Mazda, however the CX 5 was close and better in some aspects. The thing that wasn't close was the price which was a minimum of $10 000 more for the other brands and unlike Andrea, who seems like a very sweet lady, the badge doesn't mean anything to me. Value does and for value nothing compares to the Mazda. Very good review guys.

The CX-5 beats the competition by a mile.

My favourite in its class. Best friend has one and they absolutely love it... even in mid-spec trim. Of course, he now wants a CX5 Turbo.... Thanks for the upload, very nicely done as always

I see a fair number of people who are well to do driving CX-5s / CX-9s and I think the reason is because they're *not* BMW/Audi/MB. The Mazda lowers your profile at work and when its parked in your driveway, but still gives you a premium interior, premium driving experience, premium everything without the premium price tag.

I purchased this vehicle after watching your last review with Andrea. Love this suv so much. The infotainment screen is small and so is the sunroof but the styling and drive makes up for it! I got the model just below the top one. Can’t wait to see what they do with the next CX-5 generation.

This cx5 to me is on par with the Lexus nx300 and this is coming from a Lexus guy. I have own 3 Lexus vehicles a 2014 is350, 2016 nxt and a 2018 gs fsport. I was a little hesitant at first to give Mazda a try but boy have they changed my mind great job Mazda.👍🏻

Hey Mazda ! Thank you for leaving Ford now you are a better vehicle!

Mazda all the way! They are very underrated

You two have a fabulous channel, quickly turning into one of my favourites….

Great job Andrea! Your comments helped me with my decision.

I love the Mazda styles...we're definitely buying one

enjoying these couple reviews

The Mazda 3 / CX-30 are built on the brand new technology with updated 8.8inch infotainment. The rest of Mazda's lineup (CX-5, CX-8, CX-9) is still on the old MZD Connect technology. Won't expect a complete new update till 2022/2023

The price of the signature cx5 is almost the same as the competition RAV4 limited AWD:43 589$ Cx5 signature :42 965$ CRV Touring:42 286$ Ford Escape titanium:42 149$ Subaru Forester premier:42 096$.

Awesome review love this!

Most people buy suv when they really don’t need them. It’s a suv/crossover world for no legit reason. Yes, some need them with large families and hauling , but for the most part they are not needed. Not to mention the premium pricing, rip off destination charges, special paint ripoff charges. It’s never ending. Not to mention the turbo fiasco. It’s not needed in everyday driving

I'm glad the Japanese makers are making their interiors more premium feeling

what defines a luxury car? is it the symbol/logo or the actual craftsmanship and quality of materials / design?

Since this shade of RED has been out, I've been in love!😍

Just got one and my budget was about 70k usd. If you don't absolutely just love the premium brand badges and value your own money, I'd recommend you at least test drive this. And you will know all the positive feedbacks are true. Just test drive it

Ford Escape Titanium fully loaded 44.499 CAD. RAV4 Limited 41.250 CAD. CRV Touring 42.286 CAD an there is a black edition for almost 44k CAD. So Mazda CX-5 is right there with the competition but way better looking inside and out, also very well equipped.

Yes, one can probably get a Q3 for the price of a top trim CX5. But outside of the dealership experience, will it be a luxury car experience? If a base Q3 has all the features of a top trim CX5, then getting the Q3 is worth it. I doubt that’s the case, though. If one is happy just knowing that they drive a luxury brand with no luxury, then more power to them. As for me and my hard-earned cash, we will go for what we like and where there is value, regardless of brand.

2021 has over a 10” screen and has Apple car play touring model and up. Great car

love my 17' cx5 gt. 3 years now and still love it. sure it doesnt have the tubro and power but it doesnt need it for daily city driving. Plus the 2.5L engine is bulletproof. Dont plan to upgrade anytime soon.

Not a big fan of the panoramic moonroof, I hardly ever open a standard moonroof. I’m actually more concerned about damaging all that glass specially with a roofrack and loading & unloading stuff.

I bought a new 2021 Mazda CX-5. I believe the CX-50 has the same engine. It has burned engine oil from day one and getting progressively worse. I looked up and found a bulletin for my car to be repaired. I took it in and they agreed that my car fell under that bulletin according to the VIN but, that I had to wait for the engine light to come on. By my calculation that won't happen until one oil change after my warranty is up. I only have 15,000 miles on it. Worse yet is that the RU-vid posts from Mazda or its dealerships take out negative reviews. Sleezy. I’ll come back and check to see if this channel does the same thing. I’d hate to take them off my list. Don't take a chance and buy Mazda’s. They don't stand by their products.

Looking forward to seeing this engine in the Mazda 3.

Mazda desperately needs to update the UI on their infotainment system. That is a MUST!

I am a big fan of Mazda after owning a few. Great review. The video opened with Andrea not wearing sun glasses and was hopeful that would be the trend. She was spot on about branding and badging. It has huge impact on resale.

I have a 2017 GS model CX5 FWD added optional feature : GPS , And also installed the Retro Kit ( Android and Auto ) , 2.5 years ownership , I still love it , I hated Moonroof and the projector display , so GS was the way to go , just awesome suv

Only thing I disgree with that you said is badge appeal going to Audi. I love the Mazda emblem of the owl in flight, and I love the CX 5 gril and its large owl badge! Audi does not have the smoothing GVT technology, dual exhaust ports, or overall smoothness in handling. I don't think Audi has an off-road setting either. Anyway, I don't consider Mazda "less than" an Audi in any capacity. I'm just glad that the general public hasn't noticed that Mazda is a much better car!

Great review! 2020 RAV4 limited or off road ttrd will cost around $45,000 CDN with taxes and pdi. I would not buy the Ford. Reliability and resale probably not as good as Mazada.

2020 GTR I've had since January still only has 1800 Miles because of the pandemic. I make excuses to take it for drive because I love it so much... there's something about the turbo and responsiveness of the steering that make it a joy because in all honesty it's not the fastest turbo in the world but with everything combined it just works.

I have one thing to say Zack, your a lucky man. Great team review!

A Q3 starts at $39 K. Equipped properly you are looking at $50K easy. And with the ( lack) of reliability I have experienced with Audi, I think I would seriously consider the Mazda. Or even a Hyundai. Audi’s are great looking but I want to get where I am going.

I agree with Andrea and believe Mazda is up and coming, my daughter owns 2016 CX-5 and so far so good on that one. My wife owns 2018 Honda CR-V EX-L and that is nice too and has the turbo using regular unleaded gas and gets nearly 30mpg! Agree that parallel parking is a lost art, along with driving a manual! Great job with the review as usual.

Love your videos together guys, but left me wondering what (if any) are the differences between this year’s model and last. Keep up the good work together, but don’t forget about sharing more details about the car.

I have a 2016 Honda HR-V, not a bad little CUV , but decided to trade it in and almost went with the 2020 Honda CR-V, it is spacious and practical, but the 1.5 L turbo engine with CVT transmission had me worried and then read about so many people complaining about oil dilution. I decided to go instead with the Mazda CX-5, as soon as I tried it I knew that was the one for me. The CR-V is still a good car I think for people who are more concerned about looks and space and not so much worried about power and performance, but to me the CX-5 is hands down the winner over all these other vehicles in this category.

A fully loaded CRV/Rav4/Rogue, etc are all around the same price - so the knock on price is for the segment, not just Mazda. But the refinement you get in Mazda is so much better. And sure, you can spend a tiny bit more for a premium car, but you'll be getting a base model in those cars - and who wants that?? To get the premium badge, with all the same features as a fully loaded non-premium, you'll have to spend 50k. So it is still a great deal for what you get!

Literally thought it was a convertible at the beginning😂😂

The lady reviewer gave added class to the car Nice review

Great review Andrea and Zack. My only concern vs Rav is room. Cx5 is a tad small in utility.

Andrea & Zack - Great review! IMO the next big thing is Hybrid and EV's. Where's Mazda in all this? The July 1st release of the RAV4 Hybrid PRIME has got a lot of us sitting up and taking note. I've bought our last straight gas vehicle. Patiently waiting for your review. Andrea you'll be impressed with "The Need for Speed" - 302 Hp - 0 to 60 in 5.7sec. Expensive - Yes!

I have the 2018 GT non turbo and the power is fine (I don’t know what I’m missing yet) top of the line non badged brands are all just as expensive or more and some no where near as nice . Just drove the COQ and 140km handles great no issues and Zack you never mentioned torque Mazda better than Ford? One last comment while I might like a q3 or something I am sure I won’t like the maintenance costs premium fuel etc that go with them but reviewers never mention this fact

It looks ‘just’ different, enough. I like it. Thanks for another honest opinion/review.

“Maaazda, or for Americans, Mazda” Japan: “am I a joke to you?”

TIP: In the two turbo models, GT Reserve and Signature, run your tank to empty and put a half tank of 100 octane gas in to get virtually pure 100 octane gas, Then take it out to feel some REALLY improved acceleration. OK, OK, is about $8.00 per gallon but just try it once for the giggles.

This ruby red Mazda colour is just awesome.

Great review as usual !

Truthfully, the thing that Andrea said about badge ans interior, I do not agree with. I sat in a base Q5 while shopping for my mom’s new car and it was disapointing to say the least, my VW Alltrack had a way better interior overall, especially the seats. We leaned toward the Volvo and Acura at the end, because even in the base model, they both felt superior.

All the love for Andrea. Very good review

I really appreciate Andrea's perspective in reviews. She's knowledgeable and honest. Mazda (like so many other car companies) has to fix their slow infotainment system. I recommended the CX-5 to my brother-in-law and he traded it in after one year because of the slow boot up time.

Scared to buy an Audi or BMW especially when service is out of town. It's now fall 2022 and proven reliability of the CX-5 is important while the higher maintenance of German counterparts is more concerning (this coming from a previous BMW - loved the car not the higher maintenance)...and worried about future parts availability Looking to purchase a 2023 Signature Turbo and who knows, a CX-70 in a few years? BTW: the CX-5 seems more of a drivers car than the CX-50...found the CX-5 seats more comfortable too.

I recommended the CX-3, CX-5 and Suburu Cross Trek to my sister; she picked the CX-5 ; doesn't regret it EDIT: for myself, I find this and the new RAV4 (Toyota) are too small; especially with toddler seats in the back; the CX-9 is too big and the Highlander the same; waiting for the Toyota Venza, based on the mid size Corolla; Too bad Mazda didn't have a mid sizer to compete in that category (with the Venza, Subaru Outback and Ford Edge)

Thank you Andrea. I think I want the CX 5 GT Premium package FWD in Eternal Blue Mica. The only thing I wish was different is that they need a panoramic roof in this vehicle.

love the Cx5 and have had two! however, mazda had better do all their homework for Generation 3. certain things will be necessary including panoramic sunroof, magnetic phone charging, etc and a few other touches. KiA/Hyundai are lighting a fire under everyone and mazda will ne no exception as good looks can only take one so far.

I like your videos. Take care guys.

I just purchased a Mazda CX-5 GT (non-turbo -didn't care about extra power). I test drove the Ford Escape, but the interior quality and features were really lacking. The only other CUV that I considered after test driving nearly all of them was the Toyota RAV4.

I agree that the Escape looks a bit like a Cayenne! That was what I thought it was when it first flashed on the careen! But I have a Mazda CX-5 and I love it!

Initially I didn’t like the styling of the new escape, but it grew on me. I agree the more I look at it the more I see the similarities to the Porsche Cayenne! Definitely looking at either this or the new escape

Loved this review

Amazing review, nothing was said about the diesel version. Do they still offer the diesel?

Love my 2020 CX-5 Signature built by Maaazda.

The only con with my 2019 cx5 gt is just the console operating system - always slow to start, sometimes frozen as well, often wait at least 1 min or 2 to connect Apple Carplay. Otherwise it's fantastic.

Yes, I really like what Mazda has been doing for the last couple of years. 40k + for the CX-5 at any trim level is pushing it too much, I'd be shopping elsewhere.

I’m very stuck on getting the Cx5 or the RAV4, if you’ve owned a CX5, at least from 2016, your input is very much needed. I was considering the RAV4 more, although the car is very boring looking, the Mazda catches my eye so much! Although I need that reliability as I’ve had terrible car experiences! So If you’ve owned/own a CX5 from 2016 and above, please tell me your experience so far, and how much miles you have? I’m looking to get one from 2016-2020! Just need something that can last me a while. My Nissan is legit taking its last breaths lol. Thank you 😊

The Touring with the preferred equipment package (sunroof, Bose, power lift gate, etc.) is a good value proposition in the CX-5. That's what we went with after a lot of research. We got our 2020 for right at $30K if I remember right.. .maybe 31.

Random thoughts: - A top of the line Escape isn't much less money than a top of the line CX-5. For the difference, I'll take the higher quality materials of the Mazda. - I don't like those panoramic sunroofs so the Mazda's lack of one is actually a plus for me. - Regarding the response time of the infotainment system, updates to the system software are able to be uploaded by a Mazda dealer. The slower systems you experienced probably didn't have these updates installed, whereas the faster systems did. - Update Dec. 14/20 - There is a class action lawsuit against Ford for leaking head gaskets on the Ecoboost 1.5, 1.6, and 2.0 engines so that's one more strike against the Escape.

Ive had my CX-5 for almost 3 years and not had a single mechanical or electrical fault. It needs a better infotainment system with faster start up, better graphics and larger screen. Other than that, i cant fault it, and will probably get another one when my contract ends.

5:24 I agree. It does look like a Cayenne when every time I see a Ford Escape behind me.

Last year we test drove both a brand new CX-5 and a brand new CX-9. For me though the CX-9 was still too cramped. I am 6-3" and 240 though. We bought an 2018 Acura MDX instead. It has way more interior space than the 5 and 9. They are nice looking vehicles though.

"that's a real stretch" lol called out on BS

I am fine with the standard sunroof, here in Southern California the panoramic sunroof overheats the cars interior, those sunshades aren't sufficient. Will be buying the GT trim.

This lady likes power. OMG

Guys I just bought mazda cx 5 awd 187 hp in uae alhamdulillah. And I chose over rav 4 and xtrail. Im just worried of the fuel economy..waiting for ur thoughts on this.

Beautiful car + couple

In Israel,the CX5 sells well(a small market) only we don't get the turbo,we have the 2.5 litre normally aspirated version.I think it's better than the Rav 4

Zack; I and a lot of older guys put a lot of weight on CR opinions. It's weighed heavily towards reliability which is probably the most important characteristic of this purchase.

I don't really like the exterior styling of the escape

Sorry guys most people are looking for quality product and reliability wise what’s the point to have an expensive car name but not reliable enough for what you paid for ? just for your record Kia and Hyundai are more reliable than most German and British expensive cars

Escape is in no way comparable to CX5 when it comes to build quality and resale value.

i own a 2019 Mazda CX-5 grand touring w/ 187 hp and 19 inch wheels. it’s a decent CUV w/ nice interiors. the biggest drawback is the tech. needs to be upgraded w/ a bigger screen and better UI. don’t find the drive to be particularly sporty and disagree with most reviews. but overall i’d agree, it’s better CUV than most of its competitors.

I loved the review with you two and how honest Andrea is. My wife said the same thing that the badge matters to her.

Fabulous car. Mazda C5 looks great car.

I realize this is an old video but really a lot of people don’t live near a “premium “ luxury dealer if and when we might need service. Plus I really doubt you can get a q3 or q5 equipped as the signature tested for anywhere near the as tested price. So while I agree it might be nice to have the Audi I guess I am not a brand slave and will keep the few thousand I saved and love my CX5 GT

Wow left and right audio channels!

Entertaining and informative review. 👍 Regarding the end of the video, pulling out doesn’t always save you. Ask me how I know. 😩

Keeping rear middle seat down, give much better view out of rear window and I think better driving experience.

Put the Mazda 3 interior into the 2021 CX-5 and a larger sunroof

I hate it that Mazda 2021 sold in Canada hasn't updated its display unlike in the US.

It’s great to hear you go to chiropractor, how do u feel during this pandemic time going to see a chiropractor? I’m a chiropractic student that’s why I’m interesting in your feedback.

I have a 2020 CX-5 GX (lowest trim) and it has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto....so, they come standard for all trims.

I had a 2014 escape. Had the engine replaced twice. Been stranded close to 10 times in 8 years. Will never buy a Ford ever again.

Zack, your outfit looks awesome. I'd like to buy that outfit. Where did you buy it actually; especially the pants and the shoes? I live in Ohio.

Real question, why is the turbo so important if you live in a major city (likely most of us)? Are you in a rush to get to the grocery store, or work 30 seconds faster? I love fast vehicles as much as the next person, I just don't see the justification.

gotta get the top dog for the turbo.cant get a base and order turbo.42 large is steep

Is the cx30 just as good I’m test driving cx30 and cx5 on sat

Love the exterior of the CX5 prettiest in its segment, also a CVT, 6 gears it’s more than enough

One of the best brands, when it comes to near luxury at a similar cost, is VW. It begs the question, which brand has more appeal. VW or Mazda. I’d personally take a tiguan or crosssport over an CX-5.