The floor-hinged accelerator pedal feels better than the more common version that is suspended above the floor, the well-crafted steering wheel is directly in front of the driver and not offset at a slight angle, and all of the front-seat armrests are at the same height for optimal comfort. First-rate materials and a fabulous layout make it feel especially upscale. Wake up inside the top-tier CX-5 models and you might think you've been abducted by kidnappers driving an Audi or a Mercedes. We also tested a CX-5 with the more powerful turbocharged four-cylinder and standard all-wheel drive it earned 30 mpg on our 200-mile highway fuel-economy route, which was 3 mpg higher than its EPA rating. The front-drive, non-turbo CX-5 improved on that performance by 1 mpg. The all-wheel-drive, non-turbocharged version earned 32 mpg, which matched the Honda CR-V we tested. However, in our testing, the Mazda was the only one to exceed its EPA highway rating. The CX-5 has average EPA estimates-25 mpg city and 31 mpg highway for front-wheel drive, nonturbo models-compared with rivals that have similar power.

2021 Mazda CX-5, CX-9, and 6 Add Carbon Edition.

The Signature model we tested had a reassuring brake-pedal feel that operated without delay and without being too touchy when you apply the brakes. The electrically assisted steering provides satisfying responses. At the same time, the Mazda comes alive on curvy roads. Pavement imperfections are isolated, road noise is minimal, and the damping is neither stiff nor floaty. This harmonious interplay of dynamics is unrivaled by its competitors. But it also soaks up rough roads without commotion and has the ride quality of crossovers that cost twice as much. Sure, its precise steering and composed cornering make for one helluva Sunday cruise. You don't need to drive the CX-5 hard to enjoy it or to appreciate its excellence. Both engines pair with a snappy six-speed automatic transmission and front- or all-wheel drive. The 250-hp turbocharged version we tested provided much quicker acceleration. It's at higher speeds, such as when trying to pass or merge onto the freeway, that it feels underpowered.

The CX-5's standard 187-hp four-cylinder engine has great throttle response when pulling away from stoplights or hustling around town, so it feels quicker than it actually is. The former includes black 19-inch wheels and a black metallic grille design the latter includes red leather seats with red stitching and black accents on the instrument and door panels. Not only does the Carbon Edition have all the same features as the Touring model with the Preferred SV package (Bose stereo, a power-adjustable passenger seat, power liftgate, sunroof, and more), it also has distinct exterior and interior treatments. The front-drive version starts at just under $30,000, but those who want all-wheel drive can add it for $1400. With the addition of the CX-5 Carbon Edition, it's now possible to get the 250-hp turbocharged engine without paying for either of the top two trim levels. The top-of-the-line Signature trim adds a higher-definition 360-degree camera, a driver-attention alert, and rear automated emergency braking. The lineup also introduces a new Carbon Edition, which has unique Polymetal Gray paint and red upholstery. The updated system features the new Mazda Connect interface, Mazda Connected Services (a Wi-Fi hotspot and access to remote vehicle functions through a smartphone app), and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 10.3-inch screen now sits atop the dashboard, replacing a smaller 7.0-inch display. What's New for 2021?įor 2021, the most notable upgrade made to the CX-5 is its new infotainment system. Despite a smaller cargo area than its key competitors, the 2021 CX-5 shines brighter than all its classmates and even some more-expensive alternatives, making it a shoo-in for our 2021 10Best list as well as an Editors' Choice award. While the standard four-cylinder engine lacks the punch of the available turbo-four, both pair with a highly proficient automatic transmission and are more fuel efficient than their EPA ratings suggest. Compared with its predominantly dull competitors, the CX-5 is delightfully athletic and equally refined. Of course, Mazda has shown us that its attention to detail is more than skin-deep, with thoughtful ergonomics and engaging driving dynamics.

Not only does it boast beautifully sculpted bodywork, its interior is just as interesting to the eyes.

When it comes to compact crossovers, it's easy to see why the 2021 Mazda CX-5 wins the SUV equivalent of Best-in-Show.

Mazda cx 5 carbon edition 2021