So, I posted way back about going with a compact SUV when our lease ends June 3 on our G37 Convertible. Thanks to all for the many suggestions. In the interim, I have done lots of research and the reviews of the new '17 Mazda CX-5 are unanimously good.

We test drove a Grand Touring model today. I like the new exterior styling because IMHO it has a more elegant look than the previous models. The interior is also really well-finished. (Funny thing is, the trim is an "aluminum wood grain", which is what I had in my '13 GS F-Sport.) The whole package reminds me of my Audi. $16k cheaper, but it still feels premium. The CX-5 is incredibly quiet. It handles really well, which is not surprising for Mazda. What surprised me is the smooth power flow from the non-turbo 2.5 4 cylinder and the 6-speed transmission. It has great pickup at just about any speed.

It reminded me of when I test drove my A4. There was no need to try anything else. The CX-5 is a great all-around CUV at a great price. We got a great deal as well. 63% residual made the lease deal a no-brainer. We will be picking one up next week. I'll post pics when we do.

 

Congratulations....a nice choice Did you choose the Grand Touring model that you test-drove?

And what color? I myself think the Eternal Blue Mica is a nice shade (a soft medium-blue), but, of course, most of the ads and promo-images show the Candy-Apple Red.

 

Thank you! We are most likely going with Machine Grey, which is the dark gray color. Boring, I know, but the Soul Red (Candy Apple) is beautiful but not for us. I wanted white, but better half says it screams "mommy mobile". Yes, Grand Touring for sure!

 

Congratulations on the new CX-5. Great choice! Mazda did a really nice job with all of the updates. A couple of months ago I was seriously researching/shopping the CX-5 and was really interested in the revised 2017. From a timing standpoint, I didn't want to wait until they became available but it will be on my radar next time. I look forward to your comments and review.

 

Very nice and wise choice! This is the type of vehicle you could keep ten years and not have to worry about repairs or high maintenance bills.
My only miff is with the central air vents on the dash. They are oddly shaped and look like old-fashioned school bus turn arrow blinkers.
Enjoy and please post some pics when you get it!

 

CX-5 is a great choice in the Compact Utility segment, and the interior is definitely a step above almost all other mainstream, non-luxury, brand cars out there. Fully carpeted cargo area to help cut down on noise! Available Full speed dynamic cruise control and HUD on the grand touring are also quite nice.

 

Congrats! Saw one yesterday, in dark gray too, and thought the dark gray worked best with the dark wheel arches (maybe they're body colored on high trims like my jeep grand cherokee 'summit'). Looked GREAT. It exemplifies why people are buying cuv/suv's in droves, you gain more than you give up vs. a sedan.

 

One question, how do you think it compares to a lexus nx?

 

Congrats! My wife still loves her 2014 CX-5 and the new one looks great

 

I didn't buy a new car, but in my research I really liked the idea of a Mazda 3, it had a stick, it had rain sensing wipers (the little nice touches) and xenons....most importantly, it was made in Japan and a buddy who has leased 3 said not a single one ever needed a warranty repair.....that has to stand for something, kind of one of those "set it and forget it" deals where you actually like the product? I mean I had read Mazda studied the movement of the human arm in an attempt to improve production?! This CX5 sounds like a winner! Good luck with it!

haha when you said no need to try anything else...I was on a business trip in Toronto, and the staff said we're ordering meat pies, what do you want? (what exactly is a meat pie anyway)

When I asked what the choices were, "#1, braised short ribs with mushrooms, #2,"

"That's the one I want!" Wasn't any need to hear any more

 

i think the cx5 looks better, plus even in GT trim its cheaper than a base nx.

 

i agree that the cx5 looks much better, dare i say more premium. mazda has really done a great job lately in the styling department. lexus could learn a lesson or two.

 

Good choice, congrats!!

We have been looking at its bigger relative, the CX-9. Just can't decide between that and the Pilot. I'm not sold on the turbocharged four yet.

Ed

 

Obviously I can't speak for dseag2, but when we were CUV shopping the CX-5 met all of our expectations/requirements, including value vs. the NX. It's been beaten to death, but the styling of the NX was a deal breaker for both my wife and me.

 

I don't dislike the looks of the NX, but I just like the looks of the CX-5 more... both inside and out. The interior reminds me a lot of my Audi (**** and all), so it feels familiar.