Launched in 2017, the current Mazda CX-5 hasn’t changed much in recent years beyond minor tweaks. Mazda, though, thinks the 2025 CX-5 is still competitive among a hotly-contested segment of smallish crossovers. Although the model is due for a full revamp next year, they sent us this Soul Red Crystal example in loaded Turbo Signature guise so we could see for ourselves.
I last drove the CX-5 in 2020, and have driven several iterations of the similar-sized and newer CX-50 in the years since. Yes, Mazda sells the CX-5 alongside the CX-50, the latter of which is lower in height and longer overall, leading to more rear legroom and a larger cargo hold. Apparently the CX-5 name is so popular Mazda didn’t want to discontinue the model.
Being a Turbo, we get the (shocker!) turbocharged 2.5L four making 250 HP and 320 lb-ft on premium fuel. It’ll run fine on regular but make a bit less of each figure. All-wheel drive is standard, as is a six-speed automatic transmission.
All four outboard seats are heated and the fronts are ventilated on this Signature trim, along with a heated steering wheel. Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto are included, and the center screen becomes a touchscreen for those applications only. Otherwise, you’re using the rotary dial that we’ve historically liked enough.
How’s the 2025 CX-5 Feel Today?
I feel the same way about the CX-5 today as I did five years ago (also, wow, that was a while back) – it’s a great choice if you need a crossover but want something engaging to drive. Five years on from my first loan, we’re seeing more and more turbocharged engines, but Mazda’s approach still feels brawny and diesel-y in how it gets you moving.
I wish it didn’t require premium gas, though, and I wish Mazda offered a hybrid by now. They have a hybrid variant of the CX-50, with a version of Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive otherwise employed in the RAV4. Apparently it’s not very “Mazda-y” which is a bummer; I haven’t driven one yet to have an opinion first-hand. But with the upcoming 2026 CX-5, Mazda has the chance to offer a hybrid and perhaps tune it to be more fun-first.
The rest of the driving experience in the 2025 Mazda CX-5 is still quite good. Handling is on point for a compact crossover, thanks to the independent rear suspension that has it edge out the CX-50’s twist beam if you are really truly hucking it around and have that level of nuance in your butt dyno. Steering is lighter than CX-50 but pretty accurate, and brake feel remains confidence-inspiring.
My single biggest complaint – front seats with too-short bottom cushions for tall people – hasn’t been fixed. The CX-50 is better here, though the seats are firmer and a bit less comfortable on long drives.
CX-5 Owners Are Loyalists
While we post about every vehicle we drive on our social media channels, not all elicit the same response. Posting about this red 2025 Mazda CX-5, though, got our followers on Facebook and Instagram chatting right away.
“I’ve had my 2022 CX-5 Turbo for a few years now and absolutely loooooooooove this car. The interior is perfect, the engine is just the right amount of speed and power for this segment”
“The CX-5 is still the better car. It drives better. You can chalk that up to the CX-50 getting the newer dumbed down Skyactiv platform that’s cheaper, heavier & has a beam axle instead of an independent rear. In addition, for as big is the CX-50 is it’s less space efficient.”
“We’ve had a ‘21 CX5 since new and it has been nothing short of excellent. I still think it’s hard to beat the combination of interior quality, looks, and driving experience in this price bracket.”
“Still loving my 2024. It really is a great vehicle for daily life that isn’t as boring as other counterparts.”
Good Luck, and Don’t, Uh, You Know The Rest
When the Mazda CX-50 launched, the PR team was quick to point out that the CX-5 wasn’t going anywhere because they’d built such a loyal following to the specific model since its introduction in 2013. As we look toward the next generation of CX-5, my hope is that Mazda can bring the model into the present with updated drivetrains, technology, and styling, while keeping the overall packaging as fantastic as it’s been for the past twelve years. Keep the suspension tuning, keep the steering feel, keep the physical buttons, and so on.
The now-outgoing 2025 Mazda CX-5 has long been a fantastic “default choice” for compact crossover buyers who value the fun of driving over maximum fuel economy. I think it remains a solid choice, even with the new 2026 Mazda CX-5 on the way.