2025 Mazda CX-5 Preferred

The CX-5 is Mazda's compact crossover, a five-seat SUV that blends premium styling with a focus on driving pleasure. It competes with the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Subaru Forester, but stands apart with its upscale interior and sharper handling. The CX-5 steers with a quickness and precision that make it feel more like a sporty hatchback than a tall SUV. Inside, the cabin is trimmed with soft-touch materials and a clean, driver-focused layout that rivals more expensive luxury crossovers. Cargo space is adequate for the class, and the rear seats fold nearly flat to handle bulky loads. The Preferred sits above the base S and S Select Package, adding leather seats, a power liftgate, and a moonroof as standard. Under the hood is the naturally aspirated 2.5L I4 with 187 horsepower, paired with a six-speed automatic and four-wheel drive; expect 28 mpg combined. The Preferred's 17-inch wheels and standard i-Activ all-wheel drive keep the ride composed, though the 19-inch wheels on higher trims sharpen the look at the cost of some comfort.