Thursday, April 24, 2025
48.8 F
Roseville

Mazda CX-5: Highly competent compact SUV

Roseville, Calif. – Now in its fourth year, the 2016 Mazda CX-5 has clearly established itself as a strong entity in a crowded field of very competent compact crossover sport utility vehicles.

Mazda definitely made a wise decision several years ago, introducing the CX-5 and hoping it would fare better than its low-selling predecessors – the Tribute and the CX-7.

The Tribute, a knockoff of the popular Ford Escape, never gained widespread acceptance as a compact SUV. Mazda shelved the CX-7 for good, but kept the CX-9, which is larger.

Despite no major overhaul since its 2012 debut, the Japanese automaker (Ford owns 34 percent) has updated the CX-5 slightly for every model year. Among the modifications for 2016 are minor styling changes in the rear and front end – slightly bolder grille with metallic gray accents, and the headlights have a revised interior layout.

Additional changes are a revised suspension that contributes to a more comfortable ride, altered infotainment system, electronic parking brake, and sound insulation that has reduced the road noise.

The compact SUV heavyweights – Honda CR-V and the Toyota RAV4 – remain on top. But the list of serious challengers keeps expanding. The Mazda CX-5 is definitely on that list, along with the Ford Escape, Hyundai Tucson and Volkswagen Tiguan.

The attractive looking CX-5 was well received right away and continues to pick up admirers. It’s sporty, fun to drive and also possesses a rather thrifty quality, evidenced by its rather low sticker price ($21,795) for the base model and high gas mileage – ranging from 25-35 mpg.

2016 Mazda CX-5

  • Performance: 2.0-liter, four-cylinder, 155 horsepower; 2.5-liter, four-cylinder, 184 horsepower
  • Mileage estimate: 26-35 mpg; 25-33 mpg
  • Price: $21,795 to $29,870
  • Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles; drivetrain 5 years/60,000 miles; roadside assistance 3 years/36,000; corrosion 5 years/unlimited

Two years ago, Mazda wisely offered an upgraded engine for both its Touring and Grand Touring models. The engine is a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder that produces 184 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque. It travels 0-60 mph in 8.3 seconds, but actually seems faster with the pep it provides.

The base model engine (six-speed manual transmission) remains a rather lethargic 2.0-liter, four-cylinder, with 155 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. It’s a bit pokey, going 0-60 mph in 9.7 seconds.

There are performance complaints with the entry-level model, but the CX-5 interior gets mostly applause. It’s a modernized cockpit that is both appealing and functional. It has the desired soft-touch surfaces and provides comfort and room for all five occupants.

The CX-5 features a roomy second row that seats three and also has a spacious trunk area (34 cubic feet) for the class. Another plus for this SUV is its excellent safety ratings.

The CX-5 receives high marks for its driving impressions as well. It handles like a well-behaved sedan, absorbing bumps, and the braking is very reliable. Although the engine can get noisy when it’s being called upon for instant acceleration, in normal situations one hardly hears a peep.

Mazda has a winner in the CX-5 for a variety of reasons. Among its strengths is being a fun-driving SUV with a sporty feel and good acceleration with the 2.5-liter engine. It’s not easy to be a standout in this crowded field of fine compact SUVs, but the CX-5 has become a notable entry.



Coming Up!

Coming Up!

Trending

Nick the Greek Fountains at Roseville

Nick the Greek restaurant at Fountains at Roseville.

Hardwood Palace in Rocklin

Hardwood Palace basketball facility in Rocklin, Calif.

Placer Commerce Center groundbreaking for major business park

Lincoln, Calif. - Placer County and the Buzz Oats development company hosted a ceremonial groundbreaking for the Placer Commerce Center on Tuesday morning

PCWA urges water conservation amid Lake Spaulding infrastructure repairs

Auburn, Calif. - With the 2025 irrigation season now underway, the Placer County Water Agency (PCWA) is implementing seasonal conservation measures in response to ongoing limited water deliveries from Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E).

Lighthouse Counseling & Family Resource Center in Lincoln appoints Ann Elias as Executive Director

Lincoln, Calif. - The Board of Directors for Lighthouse Counseling & Family Resource Center is proud to announce the appointment of Ann Elias as the organization's new Executive Director, effective May 15, 2025.

Topics

Nick the Greek Fountains at Roseville

Nick the Greek restaurant at Fountains at Roseville.

Hardwood Palace in Rocklin

Hardwood Palace basketball facility in Rocklin, Calif.

Placer Commerce Center groundbreaking for major business park

Lincoln, Calif. - Placer County and the Buzz Oats development company hosted a ceremonial groundbreaking for the Placer Commerce Center on Tuesday morning

PCWA urges water conservation amid Lake Spaulding infrastructure repairs

Auburn, Calif. - With the 2025 irrigation season now underway, the Placer County Water Agency (PCWA) is implementing seasonal conservation measures in response to ongoing limited water deliveries from Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E).

Lighthouse Counseling & Family Resource Center in Lincoln appoints Ann Elias as Executive Director

Lincoln, Calif. - The Board of Directors for Lighthouse Counseling & Family Resource Center is proud to announce the appointment of Ann Elias as the organization's new Executive Director, effective May 15, 2025.

Crooked Lane Brewing announces plans for Roseville area taproom

Crooked Lane is the premier sponsor of Iron Rose FC, a professional men's and women's soccer team based in Roseville. The new taproom will be strategically located to serve as a gathering place for fans to celebrate and connect over great beer.

Fresenius Kidney Care in Roseville

Fresenius Kidney Care Roseville Home dialysis center in Roseville, California.

Related Articles

Local Spotlight

Stanford Ranch Family Dentistry in Rocklin serving the local community since 2000

Rocklin, Calif.- For nearly 25 years, Jason and Heather have grown their successful Stanford Ranch Family Dentistry practice by faithfully serving patients throughout the Rocklin, Roseville, and greater South Placer County region. Their business has grown to now employ over a dozen employees which helps them meet the growing demands of a successful local business.

Paul Black’s Window Cleaning serving Roseville and South Placer County for over 30 years

Paul Black’s Window Cleaning Inc. has been serving Placer County’s commercial and residential window cleaning needs since 1990.

California Fence and Patio serving Placer County for over 30 years

Loomis, Calif. - California Fence & Patio is proud of their reputation as the premier fencing and patio cover contractor in the Roseville,, Sacramento and Placer County region.