2016 Mazda CX-5 Sport

The 2016 CX-5 is Mazda's compact crossover, slotting between the smaller CX-3 and the three-row CX-9. It competes with the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape in the crowded compact SUV segment. The CX-5 is one of the most engaging crossovers to drive, with precise steering and a composed chassis that makes corners fun. The ride is firm but well-controlled, a trade-off for the sharp handling that enthusiasts appreciate. Inside, the cabin is upscale for the class, though rear legroom is snug and the middle seat has a large floor hump. The Sport is the entry point to the CX-5 range, so you skip some of the Touring's comfort extras but keep the same capable all-wheel drive. Even in base Sport form, you get Mazda's sharp steering and a firm ride that makes this crossover genuinely fun to hustle down a back road.