Looking for a compact SUV? The 2023 Mazda CX-5 is hard to ignore. Known for its smooth ride, premium interior, and sharp design, it stands out in a crowded market. But with competitors like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, you might wonder, is the new CX-5 really worth it? Or more importantly, is it better than last year’s model? This guide breaks it down with real-world insights and easy-to-understand details.
➡️ Looking for other options? Check out our guide on Best Car for Your Lifestyle Made Easy: Your Step-by-Step Guide.
What’s New in the 2023 Mazda CX-5?
Mazda didn’t make drastic changes this year. Instead, it focused on small but meaningful upgrades. Here’s what you need to know.
2023 Mazda CX-5 Exterior Design Updates
The 2023 Mazda CX-5 keeps its stylish look but adds a few tweaks. The front grille is more defined, and the LED headlights are brighter. Mazda also added fresh paint options, including Rhodium White Metallic. It’s a small detail, but it makes the SUV look even more modern.
➡️ Want to keep your car looking fresh? Read Protect Your Car’s Paint: How to Wash Your Car the Right Way.
Interior Comfort Enhancements in the 2023 Mazda CX-5
Step inside, and you’ll notice upgrades aimed at comfort. The seats now have better cushioning, making long drives more pleasant. Higher trims include ventilated front seats, which are great for hot days. Soft-touch materials and refined stitching give the cabin a near-luxury feel.
Simplified Trim Options
Choosing a trim is now easier. The Carbon Edition returns with eye-catching red leather seats and black exterior accents. Meanwhile, the Turbo Signature model adds ambient lighting and a sleeker rearview mirror. These updates improve comfort without complicating your options.
➡️ Curious about other SUVs? See 2024 GMC Yukon Updates: What’s New & Why It Matters.
Driving Experience: Smooth, Sporty, and Fun
One of the 2023 Mazda CX-5’s standout features is how it drives. Whether you’re commuting or hitting the open road, it delivers a balanced ride.
Two Engine Options to Suit Your Needs
You can choose between two engines. The base 2.5-liter engine produces 187 horsepower—enough for daily errands and weekend trips. Want more power? The turbocharged version offers up to 256 horsepower with premium fuel. In everyday driving, that translates to quicker acceleration and a more responsive feel.
Tests show the turbo model can hit 60 mph in about 6.1 seconds. That’s faster than many rivals and puts it close to luxury SUVs. If you enjoy a sportier drive, the turbo option is worth considering. See full engine specifications on Car and Driver.
Stable Handling With a Comfortable Ride
The 2023 Mazda CX-5 handles curves with confidence. Thanks to G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC Plus), steering feels smooth and precise. Whether you’re navigating city streets or winding roads, the SUV remains stable.
All trims now come with i-Activ AWD. This system helps the CX-5 grip the road in rain, snow, or on rough terrain. During a recent winter test, it performed well on icy roads, keeping the ride steady when others slipped.
Fuel Efficiency That Won’t Break the Bank
Despite its sporty feel, the CX-5 remains fuel-friendly. The base engine gets about 26 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. The turbo version is slightly less efficient at 23 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. These numbers are competitive, especially considering the SUV’s power and comfort.
Safety: Features That Offer Peace of Mind
Safety is a priority for Mazda, and the 2023 CX-5 reflects that commitment.
Standard Safety Features
Every trim comes with Mazda’s i-Activsense safety suite, which includes:
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Automatically keeps a safe distance from the vehicle in front.
- Lane Departure Warning: Alerts you when your vehicle begins to drift out of its lane without signaling.
- Blind Spot Monitoring: Warns you about vehicles you can’t see.
- Automatic Emergency Braking: Helps prevent low-speed collisions.
The Driver Attention Alert system has also improved, detecting fatigue more accurately during long trips.
Top Crash Test Ratings
Safety organizations rate the 2023 Mazda CX-5 highly. The IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick+, and the NHTSA gave it a 5-star overall rating. These results offer peace of mind, whether you’re driving alone or with family.
Technology: Practical and Easy to Use
The tech upgrades in the 2023 Mazda CX-5 focus on making your drive simpler and more enjoyable.
User-Friendly Infotainment System
A 10.25-inch touchscreen is now standard. The display is bright, and the interface is quick to respond. All trims support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with higher trims offering wireless connections. No need to fumble with cables when you’re in a hurry.
Music lovers will appreciate the available Bose sound system. Whether you’re playing your favorite songs or catching a podcast, the audio is clear and immersive.
Handy Convenience Features
Extras like a hands-free power liftgate and remote start make everyday tasks easier. Loading groceries or warming up the car on chilly mornings becomes hassle-free. These features might seem small, but they make a big difference in daily use.
Pricing and Value: Is It Worth Your Money?
The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offers a lot for its price. The base model starts around $27,000, while the top Turbo Signature trim costs about $39,000. While not the cheapest in its class, the CX-5 provides premium features without a luxury price tag.
When compared to rivals like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, the Mazda often wins on interior quality and driving enjoyment. Many buyers even choose it over entry-level luxury SUVs like the Audi Q3 because of the value it offers.
How Does the Mazda CX-5 Compare to Competitors?
vs Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 has better fuel economy, but the 2023 Mazda CX-5 delivers a smoother, quieter ride. If comfort and style are priorities, Mazda has the edge.
vs Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V offers more cargo space. However, the CX-5 provides a more enjoyable driving experience and a better-finished cabin. For those who value a refined ride, the Mazda is the better choice.
vs Luxury Brands
Surprisingly, the 2023 Mazda CX-5 competes with luxury SUVs. Models like the BMW X1 and Audi Q3 come with similar features but cost more. Choosing the Mazda lets you enjoy premium touches without overspending.
Should You Upgrade from the 2022 Mazda CX-5?
If you own a 2022 model, the differences may seem small. However, the new standard all-wheel drive and tech tweaks might justify the upgrade—especially if you’re planning to keep your SUV for years. For owners of older models, the improvements are more noticeable.
Final Thoughts: Why Consider the 2023 Mazda CX-5?
The 2023 Mazda CX-5 proves that a compact SUV can be both practical and enjoyable to drive. It blends comfort, safety, and value in a package that feels more upscale than its price suggests. Whether you’re tackling your daily commute or heading out for a weekend adventure, this SUV delivers.
If you want a vehicle that offers more than just the basics, the 2023 Mazda CX-5 should be on your shortlist.
Ready to See It for Yourself?
The best way to know if the 2023 Mazda CX-5 suits you is to take it for a spin. Visit your local dealer and see how it feels. Have questions or thoughts to share? Leave a comment or get in touch—we’d love to hear from you!
What stands out to you most about the 2023 Mazda CX-5? Let’s chat!