2013 Mazda CX-5 Pros and Cons at TrueDelta: Great handling, fuel economy by erinrae32
Member5491
I considered both the Subaru Forester, '12 Subaru Impreza, and the Mazda CX5. The Forester rode nicely, but the 4 sp tranny returned poor fuel economy. Although the unassisted visibility was great, there was no back-up camera available at my price point. CX5 has hands down great handling & fe.
Handling
I have driven over 11K miles in this car since I bought it in early April, and the CX-5's handling is its best attribute. Anyone test driving should surely try the twisties!
Fuel economy
True to EPA estimates, 25 city/31 highway for the AWD AT. I've tracked about half of the miles I have driven on fuelly and get ~28mpg (mostly using the car to commute to work on state routes w/ 55 mph speed limits).
Driving position & visibility
I'm 4'10", and don't see well out of some cars. CX-5 allows a good seating position for me as well as good visibility. I tested a Subie Forester, however, before I purchased the CX-5,and it had GREAT visibility (I didn't find the seat to be as comfortable, though).
Feature availability
Love the rearview camera & bluetooth!!!
Quietness
Much quieter than my Mom's 2006 CRV.
Reliability & durability
This is an unknown. I haven't had any problems to date, but the car has been on the market for less than a year.
Interior styling
The cup holders are too close together. The center console is difficult to reach for shorter drivers who set their seats further forward.
Feature availability
Mazda doesn't offer heated cloth seats. Also no tech package available w/o also buying a sun/moon roof & upgraded stereo.
Color choices
Sand & black are the only interior color choices. I prefer a medium gray.
Audio & nav systems
Expensive nav system that is not as good as Garmin.
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