Mazda CX-5 2025 Review: A Practical and Stylish SUV Option
The 2025 Mazda CX-5, now in its second generation, has received several updates and tweaks. This review will explore what’s new with the CX-5 and determine if it remains a competitive choice in the SUV market.
Table of Contents
Critical Updates in the 2025 Mazda CX-5
The latest version of the 2025 Mazda CX-5 includes updates to its exterior, interior, and trim options. Notably, the front and rear lights have been redesigned, and a new grille has been introduced. Inside, the seats have been slightly altered, and wireless phone charging is now available.
Interior Quality and Comfort
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 stands out with its impressive interior. Most materials are soft to the touch, providing a premium feel. Despite being a lower-end trim, the interior quality is commendable, rivaling more expensive models like the BMW X3 and Audi Q5.
The infotainment system features a 10.25-inch screen mounted high on the dashboard for easy visibility. Unlike many competitors, Mazda has retained physical controls for the infotainment system, making it easier to use while driving. The CX-5 also includes standard features such as adjustable lumbar support, adaptive cruise control, and dual-zone climate control.
Practicality and Space
While the 2025 Mazda CX-5 does not offer seven seats like some competitors, it remains a practical choice for those without extra seating. The rear seats provide ample headroom and legroom, ensuring comfort for taller passengers. However, the rear bench does not slide forward or backward, a feature in some rival SUVs.
The boot space is substantial, capable of fitting eight carry-on suitcases. Although it does not match the capacity of larger SUVs like the Peugeot 5008 or the Skoda Kodiaq, it still offers practical features such as easy-to-fold rear seats and underfloor storage.
Driving Experience
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 offers a relatively stiff suspension setup, which may cause some fidgeting on motorways but contributes to better handling and a more engaging driving experience. The steering is responsive and well-weighted, providing confidence when navigating corners.
One of the standout features is the six-speed manual gearbox, which offers a sporty feel with its short throw and positive action. While the available 2.0-liter and 2.5-liter petrol engines may not be as fuel-efficient or robust as some competitors, the driving dynamics of the CX-5 still impress.
Comparison to Rivals
When comparing the 2025 Mazda CX-5 to other SUVs like the Peugeot 5008, Kia Sorento, and Toyota RAV4, the CX-5 offers a unique blend of practicality, style, and interior quality. Although it lacks the seven-seat option, it has a high-quality interior and engaging driving experience.
PRICE AND OPINION OF THE MAZDA CX-5
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 is the largest SUV available from the manufacturer, with conventional gasoline or diesel and micro-hybrid versions classified with the ECO label from the DGT.
General information
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 is a 4.58 meter-long SUV with five doors and five seats, which receives a profound update in the design and equipment compared to the model presented in 2017 – rigidity has also been increased in the chassis. The suspension has been revised to achieve better dynamic response and greater comfort.
It is available with light hybrid gasoline and conventional four-cylinder diesel engines, with powers ranging from 150 to 194 horsepower. Depending on the version, it is associated with a manual or automatic gearbox, standard or optional. They are front-wheel drive, although it is possible to equip all-wheel drive in the two most performance versions.
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 starts with quite complete equipment with the Center-Line Plus access finish, which includes elements such as 19-inch wheels, a rearview camera, or the multimedia system with a 10.25-inch screen compatible with Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto, among others.
The following equipment level is the Advantage, which adds an electric trunk lid, 360-degree vision monitor, keyless entry, and Head-Up Display. The Newground version is based on the Center-Line Plus equipment but with a more off-road focus. It incorporates lower bumpers, trim, and seats made of imitation leather and synthetic suede.
The Exclusive-Line finish has complete equipment, with the Bose audio system with ten speakers, Smart Full LED adaptive headlights, or adaptive cruise control. Derived from the latter is the Homura version, with the wheels and various aesthetic details in black to give it a more sporty image (the Homura Plus adds leather upholstery and heating in the rear seats). Finally, the most luxurious trim line is the Takumi, with brown leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, and wooden interior trim with some elements, such as the handles, in chrome.
What engines does the 2025 Mazda CX-5 have?
Regarding the engines available in the Mazda CX-5, all versions are equipped with conventional four-cylinder engines from the family with direct injection, with the differential characteristic in the gasoline versions of being naturally aspirated and 24V micro hybrids (E-SKYACTIV MHEV), both the 2.0 liter with 165 HP and 213 Nm and the 2.5 liter with 194 HP and 258 Nm − with a cylinder deactivation system to improve efficiency.
The diesel versions have a 2.2-liter turbocharged engine that can develop two power levels, 150 HP and 380 Nm, and 184 HP and 445 Nm.
Depending on the version, the engine can be associated with a 6-speed manual gearbox − the two basic diesel and gasoline versions −or with a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission − optional in the entry-level gasoline and gasoline versions. Series in the most influential models of 184 and 194 HP−. Additionally, an i-ACTIV AWD all-wheel drive system is available as an option in the two most potent versions.
Its gasoline versions with automatic transmission will offer a driving mode selector called Mazda Intelligent Drive (Mi-Drive), which will have an additional Off-Road mode if it has all-wheel drive.
Mazda CX-5 test drive
Consumption
The gasoline versions of the 2025 Mazda CX-5 have an approved average consumption (according to the WLTP cycle) of 6.5 and 7.6 l/100km. In comparison, the diesel engines achieve figures of between 5.6 and 6.6 l /100km. These are good values ​​compared to other direct rivals with similar power levels, such as the gasoline versions of the Volvo XC40 (between 6.9 and 7.2 liters) or the diesel range of the Volkswagen Tiguan (between 5.2 and 6.5 liters).
Benefits
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 which corresponds to the access level, in terms of performance, is the 165 HP gasoline one with a manual transmission, with an acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.7 seconds and a top speed of 201 km/h (9.9 s and 192 km/h if automatic), while a Volkswagen Tiguan 1.5 TSI with 150 HP accelerates in 9.2-9.9 seconds.
The most performance version has the 2.5-liter 194 HP engine, which accelerates in 9.2 seconds and reaches 195 km/h, figures practically identical to those of the 180 HP Hyundai Tucson, and is considerably slower than an Audi Q3. 40 TFSI quattro (7.4 seconds and 220 km/h).
Driving aids
The driving aids that the Mazda CX-5 comes with as standard are:
· Hill Start Assist
· Active braking assistant with pedestrian recognition
· Automatic high beams
· Cruise control with speed limiter
· Advanced blind spot control
· Rear traffic detector
· Front and rear parking sensors
· rear view camera
In higher finishes, the following assistants can be added:
· Lane change assist
· Fatigue detector
· G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC Plus)
· Signal recognition
· Front and rear advanced city brake assist system
2025 Mazda CX-5 Overview
Launched in 2012, the original Mazda CX-5 was the first Mazda to feature both the Kodo – Soul of Motion – design and Skyactiv technology. It sets new dynamic standards, changing perceptions of compact SUV attractiveness. Today, we get behind the wheel of the Mazda CX-5 redesign 2025.
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 has become a central model for the Japanese brand. It represents approximately 30% of the company’s annual sales. More than three million units have been sold in 130 countries worldwide. What’s more, the CX-5 accounts for around 19% of sales in European territory.
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 is now on sale in Spain. It arrives with subtle improvements, including the attractive DGT ECO badge that stands out. Thanks to a 48V system in gasoline engines, it seeks to capture the attention of those who want a crossover with an excellent value-for-money ratio. For this, the standard equipment also improves.
Mazda CX-5 New ground exterior design
The New Mazda CX 5 2025 now looks prettier than ever. Its Kodo design, characteristic of the brand, is sharper and fresher than ever. At the front, the aggressive design of the grille and its high depth create a striking three-dimensional effect. The grille is now more stylized.
The headlights can be equipped with Smart Full LED technology in the highest finishes. They are smaller than before to give the whole a more forceful appearance. A second air inlet and plastic protection with chrome elements stand out at the lower end. It matches the base of the grill.
The large front window offers excellent visibility. A large glass surface complements it in the side view. The door area receives a lower plastic protection that highlights the wheel arches. They hide 17 or 19-inch wheels. At New Ground, they are shod with Toyo Proxies R46 A tires in dimensions 225/55 R19 99V on both axles.
We have a more precise and powerful profile line, giving it a more significant presence on the asphalt. The dimensions are 4.55 meters long, 1.68 meters high, and 1.84 meters wide. On the other hand, it maintains its 2,700-millimeter wheelbase intact. The maximum ground clearance is 200 mm.
At the rear, we find optical groups with LED technology divided by the tailgate. The moon is a suitable size, and above it stands out a marked spoiler with the third brake light and black fins. The stylized bumper integrates plastic protection with silver elements at the lower end.
There are two round exhaust outlets for gasoline and one for diesel. On the roof, we see a shark fin antenna. The accessories catalog finds various wheel designs, longitudinal and transverse roof bars, mirror housings in multiple colors, aerodynamic packages, and tow hooks.
2025 Mazda CX-5 Interior design
The interior of the Mazda CX-5 has undergone a significant evolution over the years. The increase in quality is palpable at first glance. We have a minimalist cabin stripped of all unnecessary controls. Moreover, in terms of quality, it is above many generalist rivals.
The driver must always be Mazda’s center of attention to align everything with him. The horizontal lines are the protagonists, and all the elements seem to point forward, something that we will quickly discover when we look at the ventilation outlets finished with chrome edges.
The materials have improved in quality both to touch and sight. They abandon the sobriety that Japanese models usually display. Despite this, hard plastics are more significant in the primary and intermediate finishes. In the top-of-the-range finish, these aspects have been carefully taken care of.
Looking at the dashboard, we will see that all the elements are better integrated. The three-spoke steering wheel has optimized buttons to be more within reach while driving. The diameter remains the same, but the ring is now narrower, and the thumb area is more comfortable.
After this, the dials of the traditional instrument panel have been revised to improve their quality and readability while incorporating a complete color head-up display. The center console has been redesigned and has an armrest at the back. I miss that this one is not sliding since it is somewhat delayed.
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 new 10.25-inch touchscreen dominates the dashboard. Thanks to the improved system, such as information and entertainment services, it includes extensive connectivity options and a cloud-based Internet connectivity platform. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now wireless. It works well and has good graphics.
It is operational from a roulette wheel located in the transmission tunnel. The system is fluid, fast, and intuitive; you can’t fault it. We find the dual-zone air conditioning system somewhat low in a lower position. It has enough storage space, the one in front of the gear lever, with wireless charging.
We have seats with great comfort and extensive equipment on both sides of the transmission tunnel. In addition, they offer a good grip on the bench and backrest for calm driving. They can be equipped with lumbar adjustment, heating, and electrical adjustments. The front seat belts have height adjustment.
Regarding habitability, the access and spaciousness of the first row of seats are excellent. Access is just as comfortable in the second row, although only two adults will travel comfortably due to its width. Legroom and height are adequate for someone up to 1.85 meters. It is in an intermediate position in the segment.
As usual, the central seat is narrower, higher, and has more rigid padding due to the central armrest. However, the central tunnel does not bother excessively. The second row has amenities such as backrest adjustment, USB sockets, ventilation outlets, and heated seats depending on the trim.
As for cargo space, it measures 522 liters (510 for diesel). They can be expanded to 1,638 liters if we fold down the rear seats’ backrests -40:20:40-. It’s something fair against the competition. In addition, the loading mouth is somewhat raised – 760 mm -. Of course, the shapes are very regular. There are hooks, lighting, and a small double bottom.
Mazda CX 5 2025 engines
Among the mechanical offerings of the new 2025 Mazda CX 5, we find three engines: a 2.2 SKYACTIV-D turbo diesel and two direct injection gasoline units, 2.0 SKYACTIV-G, and 2.5 SKYACTIV-G. The latter now has the 24-volt light hybridization system. They benefit from the DGT’s ECO environmental badge.
The entry-level gasoline model is the 2.0 e-SKYACTIV G with 165 HP power and 213 Nm maximum torque. Always with a single drive to the front axle, it can be ordered with a six-speed manual transmission or an automatic transmission with the same number of speeds.
The 2.5 e-SKYACTIV G with 194 HP of power and 263 Nm of maximum torque is a more performance option. In this case, they all have an automatic transmission. Still, those interested can choose between a single drive to the front axle or a total drive to all four wheels. All the mechanics of the range comply with the Euro 6d emissions regulations.
The 2.2 SKYACTIV-D block is offered with two power levels. The access option has 150 HP and 380 Nm of torque. It is associated with the six-speed manual transmission and front-axle drive. The most powerful has 184 HP and 445 Nm of torque. It can have a manual transmission and 2WD traction or automatic traction to the front or total axle.
We found the consumption less convincing, even when practicing the calm driving this mechanic cries out for. Going slowly, achieving a combined consumption of around 7 – 7.5 l/100 km is possible. Mazda approves a combined WLTP of 6.5 l/100 km. These are high figures in the segment; diesel has much lower consumption.
Version 2.0 SKYACTIV-G 2WD 6MT Newground – 4 cylinders in line
Displacement 1.998 cm³
Power 165 CV (121 kW) @ 6,000 rpm
About 213 Nm @ 4.000 rpm
Weight 1.544 kilos
Dimensions L/W/H mm 4.575 / 1.845 / 1.685 mm
Trunk Volume 522 (1,638) liters
Acceleration 0 to 100 km/h 10.7 seconds
Recovery 80 to 120 km/h 7.3 seconds between gears
Maximum speed 201 km/h
Approved consumption 6.5 / 8.0 – 6.3 – 5.6 – 6.8 l/100 km (Comb. / speed low – medium – high – very high)
CO2 emissions per km 146 g/km de COâ‚‚ (Euro 6)
DGT sticker Eco
Starting price from 33,607 euros (this engine without discounts or extras)
Behavior 2025 Mazda CX-5
One of the strong points of the 2025 Mazda CX-5 is its setup. The engineers have achieved an excellent combination of chassis, steering, suspensions, and manual transmission feel that position the SUV as one of the favorites for driving feel. It’s a shame that the power is somewhat lacking.
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 like any good Mazda, offers extra toughness, precision, and dynamism in the segment without giving up more than adequate comfort. After the 2022 restyling, the ride quality and soundproofing were improved, even better when the asphalt is imperfect. It is your option if you value driving a car with packaging that involves you.
Although the segment has more comfortable options, the chassis is designed to absorb vibrations well, and the suspensions effectively filter out asphalt irregularities. Undoubtedly, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 conveys confidence and poise behind the wheel with a high-quality ride.
The suspension has a McPherson scheme on the front axle and a multi-link on the rear. Thanks to a firm setting – a bit dry on the bumps if we don’t reduce speed -it combines a high level of comfort and agility. In addition, it effectively contains body rolls, and changes support quickly and naturally.
Equipment and price
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 range’s trim levels are Center-Line Plus, Advantage, New Ground, Exclusive-Line, Homura, and Takumi. In all cases, they already have LED headlights, blind spot detectors, lane alerts, signal readers, rear cameras, and emergency braking.
Other standard elements are dual automatic climate control, adaptive cruise control, light alloy wheels, heated seats, anti-theft alarm, rain sensor, folding mirrors, push-button start, and navigation with a 10.2-inch screen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, among many other elements.
In the complete versions, they add the high-quality sound system developed by Bose, electric sunroof, leather upholstery, electric seats, automatic tailgate, 360 vision system, full chrome package, ventilated seats, frameless interior mirror, Head-up Display …
The range is tremendously complete, perhaps too full, which motivates indecision in the purchase. We recommend that you take a detailed look at what each version is equipped with before opting for one or the other since you can also find some options and accessories to personalize the model.
The recommended prices for the 2025 Mazda CX-5 range without discounts or promotions are as follows:
Center-Line plus Advantage Newground Exclusive-Line Homura Takumi
2.0 e-SKY-G 165 CV 6MT 33.607€ 35.607€ 36.707€ 36.707€ 38.507€ 40.257€
2.0 e-SKY-G 165 CV 6AT 36.007€ 38.007€ 39.107€ 39.107€ 40.907€ 42.657€
2.5 e-SKY-G 194 CV 6AT 39.507€ 41.507€ 42.607€ 42.607€ 44.407€ 46.157€
2.5 e-SKY-G 194 CV 6AT AWD 42.507€ 44.507€ 45.607€ 45.607€ 47.407€ 49.157€
2.2 SKY-D 150 CV 6MT 36.607€ 38.607€ 38.849€ 39.707€ 41.507€ 43.257€
2.2 SKY-D 184 CV 6AT 40.507€ 42.507€ 43.607€ 43.607€ 45.407€ 47.157€
2.2 SKY-D 184 CV 6AT AWD 43.507€ 45.507€ 46.607€ 46.607€ 48.407€ 50.157€
Conclusion
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 is a well-rounded SUV that offers a lot for its price. It may not be the largest or the most powerful SUV in its class. Still, it excels in interior quality, practicality, and driving enjoyment. If you’re considering an SUV and do not need seven seats, the CX-5 is worth a look.