Better than: Toyota RAV4
But not as good as: Lamborghini LM002
GRM Bang For The Buck Index: 75.84
We spent some time with Mazda's smallest crossover, the CX-5. This all-wheel-drive, Grand Touring trim model was basically loaded, and seemed to bring Miata handling to the crossover world. Read the counterpoints below to see what we thought.
I loved this little SUV. It's comfortable, practical, and fun to drive. My only gripe? It's much more fun (and gets much better mileage) with two-wheel-drive and a manual transmission. That's how I'd order one. Heck, I might just do that.
In a sea of small SUVs, this one really stands out. It's the right size, looks great, doesn't cost a mint, and just does as it's asked. Yes, it's the Mazda of smaller utes.
Are you going to autocross it? Nope. Track it? Nope. But if your domestic situations warrants a vehicle like this, check out the CX-5. It has become a GRM favorite for business trips to cities--you know, places where maybe a Miata doesn't make as much sense.
This one has a lot of fans at GRM, and generally speaking we're not SUV people. But it's the most Mazda-y one
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