The 2022 Mazda CX-5 represents a significant evolution for one of the most popular compact luxury SUVs on the market, blending engaging driving dynamics with a refined interior and practical design. This model year builds upon the platform’s reputation for handling and aesthetics, offering a compelling package for buyers seeking a premium small SUV without the luxury brand price tag. With a focus on real-world performance and daily usability, the CX-5 continues to set benchmarks in its competitive segment.
Engine and Performance Specifications
Under the hood, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 delivers a choice of two efficient and responsive powertrains, catering to different driver priorities. The standard offering is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder Skyactiv-G engine, producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, mated to a smooth six-speed automatic transmission. This combination provides more than enough power for everyday acceleration and highway merging, while maintaining respectable fuel economy for the class.
Available Power and Capability
For those who prefer a more spirited driving experience, the Grand Touring and Preferred trims offer the available 2.5-liter turbocharged Skyactiv-G engine. This variant boosts output to 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, transforming the CX-5 into a genuinely quick and exciting vehicle. The turbocharged model pairs this potent engine with a six-speed automatic featuring a sport mode and paddle shifters, allowing for a more interactive and dynamic drive that feels far larger than its compact classification.
Fuel Efficiency and Real-World Performance
Fuel efficiency remains a strong point for the CX-5, making it a practical choice for both urban commuting and longer trips. The base model, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), achieves an estimated 25 miles per gallon in the city and 31 miles per gallon on the highway. The turbocharged variants, while slightly less efficient due to their increased power, still manage an EPA-estimated 23 city and 30 highway, which is competitive within the segment and helps keep running costs manageable.
Drivetrain and Handling Characteristics
Mazda’s commitment to driving pleasure is evident in the CX-5’s available all-wheel-drive system, known as i-ACT all-wheel-drive. This system is designed to be unobtrusive, primarily sending power to the front wheels for efficiency and only distributing torque to the rear wheels when the system detects a loss of traction. The result is a car that feels planted and confident in various weather conditions, without sacrificing the nimble handling that Mazda is famous for. The steering is precise, the chassis is taut, and the overall feel is one of sophistication rarely found in this price range.
