Used 2023 Mazda CX-5 Consumer Reviews
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The CX5 does everything just about right!
older auto guy, 10/09/2022
2023 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
135 of 137 people found this review helpful
The 2023 Mazda CX-5 is just right for this older automobile enthusiast. Even at the base sport level, which I purchased, the quality and refinement of the interior is exemplary. The seats are high quality design, fabrics, and very comfortable. The cabin ergonomics are well designed and the ride and handling manners are excellent. Acceleration is easily adequate for a ride through town, a jaunt down a country road, or merging onto a crowded highway. It only seems to lack a little passing power at highway speeds, but otherwise the engine is spirited and eager to please combined with the finely synchronized shifting of the 6 speed transmission.The 6 speed automatic transmission was a factor in my selection of the CX-5 (I am not yet a fan of CVT transmissions). What also impresses me about the 2023 Mazda CX-5 is the high quality fit and finish from the exterior paint through the interior cabin components. Even the control knobs have a very high quality and a precision tactile feel and operation. Having owned two other SUV brands over more than a decade, in my opinion, I have to say the CX-5 is a superior option.
I'm a convert!
George in Ohio, 04/24/2023
updated 06/01/2023
2023 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Preferred 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
63 of 64 people found this review helpful
I have always been a sucker for the "newest technology" when buying a new vehicle. When a new model is introduced or an existing model is completely redesigned, normally I'm all in. So why did I buy a vehicle which is essentially 8 model years old with my 2023 CX-5? Because it is so darn good. Yeah, it might not have the most current tech - no touchscreen, six speed tranny instead of 8 or so, simple (but elegant) interior. But this is a quality, proven vehicle - over 8 years, Mazda has engineered out all of the bugs. Incredibly responsive and quiet engine (can barely hear it idle at a traffic light). Exceptional quality interior materials - virtually as nice as my neighbor's Audi, for lots less $. Smooth ride, very similar to my bigger midsize sedan, with wonderfully supportive seats that are great for road trips. 28 mpg in everyday driving, 34 for highway driving. Top notch safety ratings. And with a little bit of practice, I now prefer Mazda's non-touchscreen infotainment - knobs are knurled and perfectly placed, and I can make adjustments without taking my eyes off the road. The vehicle simply exudes quality and is incredibly solid in every way. And the Preferred trim is a real bargain : leather seats, sunroof, dual climate, heated seats, dual setting driver's seat (great for me and my wife), power front passenger seat, better riding 17 inch wheels - all for $32K. Handling is a hoot; the car does precisely what I ask it to do, no more, no less. Unless you want to drive very aggressively, the base engine is excellent; no problems with passing power or acceleration. Yes, other SUV's have more cargo capacity if you absolutely need it, but the CX-5 is completely adequate for this empty nest couple. My only complaint is that rear visibility isn't as good as I'd prefer (probably due to the design), but it's quite satisfactory - and front visibility is excellent. We looked at the SUV market at a local new car show, and drove 3 other competitors. Yeah, there are plenty of newer designed, glitzier models out there you can consider. But I am completely loving my comparatively "old" 2023 CX-5. It is a terrific vehicle.
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2023 Mazda CX-5 for sale near you
3 of 252 listings
- 2.5 S Preferred 4dr SUVMSRP: $25,99514 mi away
- 2.5 S Preferred 4dr SUVMSRP: $26,99514 mi away
- 2.5 Turbo Signature 4dr SUVMSRP: $30,99832 mi away
See all 252 listings
Best. Car. Ever.
Cami, 08/11/2023
2023 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Carbon Edition 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
30 of 30 people found this review helpful
I love this car. I have not had a lot a cars in my life so I can’t compare like others who review. This car rides so smooth and quiet. Sometimes I can’t even tell it’s running when I first start it up. I needed an SUV due to aging back and knee problems. I could no longer get into my little 23 yr old Honda Civic anymore. This car is perfect for me, very comfortable and I love every aspect of it. I test drove a Honda CRV as well and this car is so much smoother, classier and more luxurious. Mazda won me over - and I was a Honda loyalist. I thought I would buy a Honda - but no. I would buy this car again and recommend to anyone. I got the carbon edition with red leather seats. It’s so cool.
Drivers Only !
Etadeckimas, 01/16/2024
updated 04/01/2024
2023 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
28 of 29 people found this review helpful
We picked the Premium ( 1 below the top non-turbo line trim ) - this review ...The result of taking many high mileage , consistently long freeway trips, which has yielded some interesting data. First I have had not one issue that required a trip back to the dealer - Second , it has an ultra low fatigue factor when driving over 5 hours and is right at home on long mid-state, California / Arizona/ New Mexico highways that people cruise at 80 in the slow lane -- The CX5 is geared well and 6th will let you roll effortlessly at 75 and still get +30mpg - As well there's plenty left to move up in mph if needed- Its at home on the long stretches and is super quiet and well mannered- Some say shy on power , but my experience is , not so , once you learn how to harness the gobs of torque that are delivered by a direct injection 2.5 at low rpms - its spot on with 2 people and luggage- the firm suspension is a bonus at these higher speeds -it feels firm and controllable , the steering feedback is second to none - once had an MBZs500 that honestly didnt behave as well -( although it was a 2001 ) - Not a fair comparison , yet its true- The transmission is what I believe is the best aspect of this vehicle , an old school solid chunk of metal that has a super reliable 6speed automatic , which has a twin clutch w/solenoid so once you start moving it rapidly locks into direct drive ..no extended exhaustive torque converter wind up before gear engagement. It is "AWD" but in reality 90% front wheel drive ( most often) with a rear differential magnetic lockout which is another serious stoke of simplistic genius, because magnets dont wear out - ever ! These may not be the " sizzle " items that sell cars , but if you plan on keeping what you buy for decades - this one is made to have the capability to meet that challenge ! I choose the naturally aspirated engine over the turbo , which in another piece of engineering excellence , Mazda has a patented Miller Cycle combustion engine , -- translation ..high compression ( 13:1 - USA ) ( 14:1 other ) ( 10-turbo )- with a unique intake system in which the intake valve closes late on the combustion upstroke ,right before detonation , thus reducing piston drag ,and increasing efficiency - one thing Mazda dosent say is that these high compression engines , ALL run better on high octane gas -- and there will be many throwing fits reading this - but even in the owners manual on the non-turbo engine it says " minimum octane rating 87 " -( as well theres no sticker on the gas cap area saying " use only 87 or low-octane gas " ) hmmm and, in the manual it states that lower than 87 octane can damage the engine..so what if you buy 87 and its off by a bit and is 86 ?- guess what -- not good ! Use at least 89 - .....its true -- because high octane fuel is more stable and harder to detonate -- thus on high compression engines - pre detonation with low octane gas is a concern-- so I run 91-93 and its noticeable in performance too --on Turbos , I would never consider low octane precisely because of this phenomena - when turbos create increased compression and pre-detonation is a much bigger risk --- any-who-ha - use at least 89 ..if you must ... , This is a well built , efficient , fun action packed ride for a steal of a price - Built to last and if you look around, you will see the 2012-13 first years CX5s still on the road ... ...its been built for over 10 years with one slight body change and some minor tweaks here and there ...so the result , is all the knowledge associated with over a decade of making the same vehicle- combined with the Japanese car makers ethos of KAIZEN . or constant improvement- you get - a winner - top to bottom - tight in the back seat / so if you are looking for a people mover - dont buy this race rocket - I dont want 5 people in my car anyway - on other non-driving irritants , but overlookable ....terrible info-tainment system , confusing , the key fob is another , the lock/unlock , rear hatch are on the side and easily set off in ones pocket - the old one was simple and better -- so my complaints are mainly tech-related nonsense thats been overthought and in trying to achieve convenience , confusion is sewn - The drive line / suspension / steering are second to none , and--- are what overshadow all that ridiculous tech stuff, that frankly all cars have now- so - we press on ....the accelerator ;-)
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Fun to drive
Sam, 05/29/2023
updated 12/01/2023
2023 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Carbon Edition 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
24 of 25 people found this review helpful
Traded a Honda CRV (which is noisy and you can feel every bump in the road) on this CX5. This SUV is engaging and fun to drive. We are getting excellent gas mileage even with AWD. It is very quiet inside and the fit and finish and detailing if phenomenal. Puts the CRV to shame. After 7 months of owning we are still getting excellent gas mileage and it is still fun to drive.
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- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value