2019 Mazda CX-5 Review: Reliable Small SUV That's Affordable To Own Long Term

Michael on March 19, 2024

This is my second CX-5. This first was a 2016 I bought in 2019 and loved tremendously and then it was totaled when I was rear-ended by someone texting and driving during Covid. I drove a sort of hand-me-down Jeep for a while during the weird Covid period when everything was uncertain but knew I wanted another CX-5 as soon as I felt financially comfortable. The car is extremely comfortable, handles well and has a beautiful streamlined and simply classic look. My partner who is a die-hard Mercedes snob even loves it!

Paul on January 11, 2024

Overall, the car is really good. It looks great, drives well, and hasn’t had any major issues since I bought it new in 2019. But buyer be ware - the infotainment screen is cumbersome and is prone to glitch. Off the bat it was slow and confusing. For example, If you are listening to a podcast and want to switch to the radio, it takes way to many steps. Makes it so hard to navigate while driving. Also, about two years in, the system started acting on its own. I would be driving and the radio station suddenly changes, or car play gets shut down, or the speaker options suddenly comes up and it cranks up the bass for some reason. It’s like a gremlin lives in there.

Tman on November 14, 2023

Purchased new in 2019 touring model- have 76K on it - no issues so far. Changed brakes all around - plugs - one drain and fill on the tranny and changed the fluid in the transfer cases. Changed the oil every 6k. Info screen is dated but once you get used to it - its fine. Touring has the 17 inch wheels which gives it a good ride quality. Good buy!

Ron on August 22, 2023

Fuel injector service made the car accelerate/ respond way better. 35,000 miles onward definitely felt a difference after the service. Feels like a brand new car again. Brakes could be better but overall great timeless vehicle.

retired on June 11, 2023

Cx5 already has 2 recalls! and it only has 10000 miles on it. The Hyundai suv still has the good tried an true tranny and a lot better warranty! For less $.

DBC on May 18, 2023

Such a smooth driving SUV. But the transmission/engine cannot find the proper ratios to respond quickly from 15-35 mph. Very frustrating in busy traffic. Otherwise, beautiful interior and very reliable. The entertainment system takes forever to start on initial start up. GPS looks like it from 2002.

Kathy W. on December 24, 2022

After looking at Honda, Toyota, and Nissan smaller SUVs, I accidentally came across the Mazda CX-5 and decide to take it for a test drive. It is now sitting in my driveway and there's nothing I don't like about it. As far as handling, power, styling, technology package there was just no comparison. I am super tall and while the back seat legroom is a little bit restrictive, I don't usually drive from the back seat so all is good. Since there is no Mazda dealership in my community I was not very familiar with the brand other than the name and logo. I am so glad I had an opportunity to check out this car. If you are in the market for a family-sized SUV you absolutely have to take the Mazda CX-5 for a test drive. I love this car.

Citygirl meets County on March 6, 2022

This model has so many upgrades; all wheel drive, Bose speakers, power, heated seats, truck remote, sleek style, drive assist, spacious, back seat leg room and comfortable

Mike on May 1, 2021

I purchased a 2019 CX5 GTR with all options from Mazda and from Dealerahip. The 2.5T and AWD is an excellent and reliable drievtrain. Also got an extended warranty (full covg 7 yrs, 100k mi) and interior warranty (5 yrs), and another weather and paintless debt repair warranty (5 yrs). I've had no mechanical issues with it, and the only problem so far was a radio glitch where the radio didn't come on properly when starting up. Restarted the car and worked fine. No other problems. 2 years used it looks better than the new CX5s on the lot. With the interior warranty I get a professional detail once a year that keeps the white leather looking fresh. I've used the paintless debt repair warranty to take out door dings a few times. My only complaint is when the tires wear out, then the steering gets a little heavy in parking lots. Change tires at the dealer recommended intervals, makes a big difference. I have 30,000 miles on the car now and am confident this car will last a long time. Also, find a dealer that will work with you. This GTR trim I've added front parking sensors, backup beeper cutoff for trailer, 360 deg camera, and LED interior lights all at dealer. These only come on sig trim but u can have the white interior with all those features if u want. Cheers.

Driver1 on April 7, 2021

This car is a Best Safety Pick by Consumer Reports and IIHS. With a new teen driver in our family, safety features were the most important factor in our used car search. Safety features were standard. But we consider an added bonus the smooth ride, as well as overall interior and exterior appearance of the CX-5. Nice audio system, weather package, and HUD option as well.