Who Would Buy the Mazda CX-5?

There’s no denying the popularity of the compact crossover and SUVs in general. Almost every major car manufacturer has an entry in the ring. So one wonders what the Mazda CX-5 has that makes it different from the rest? Moreover, one wonders who is this compact offering for?

A Compact Crossover With a Mantra for Motion

First seen in 2012, the CX-5 is Mazda’s answer to the likes of the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Subaru Forester. While it may look like your typical compact crossover, the Japanese carmaker gives this one its signature Kodo Soul of Motion design language. What this means is more flowing lines, as well as a few sporty touches subtly integrated into the bodywork.

Step inside and you get the usual 5-seater plus cargo bay layout. What sets this thing apart from the pack is how Mazda infuses a more European flavor in areas like the dash and instrumentation. It does remind you of a certain European brand.

Fast, Furious, and Focused on Familia

The one factor that seems to make the Mazda CX-5 unique in the class is its sporty drive. Known for its Zoom-zoom spirit and Skyactiv suite of technologies, Mazda has put these into what is essentially a family oriented offering. This gives the CX-5 more responsive steering, brakes, and accelerator pedal. In plain English, this simply means that the CX-5 is more engaging to drive—even if you’re just headed to the grocery store.

And this is the typical buyer profile: someone who simply loves to drive but now has responsibilities in life. Someone who may have owned a Honda Civic SiR in their youth but now has a family and needs the extra space for the kids’ gear and a child seat.

So, is the Mazda CX-5 for you?