The CX-5 has long been a favorite at AoA for it’s fun to drive nature but for 2017 Mazda turns the heat up. The already good looking crossover wears new sheetmetal that’s more attractive than before and virtually every part of the compact CUV gets a tweak. The bod is stiffer, the suspension is softer, the interior sets a new benchmark for the segment and the back seat easily rivals the CR-V and RAV4 in size and comfort. But what impresses most about the Mazda is the overall balance between it’s fun-to-drive reputation, practicality, value, luxury and comfort. The CX-5 isn’t the fastest or even the best handling baby SUV in America, but thanks to its aggressive pricing, high levels of standard equipment and the gorgeous styling it ties for top place on the AoA charts.
0-30: 3.1 Seconds
0-60: 8.1 Seconds
1/4 Mile: 16.2 Sec @ 85 MPH
60-0 Braking: 125 Feet