Used Mazda CX-5 Buying Guide

• If you want some of the best tech features, then you'll want a model that comes after 2021.
• Aiming to make this model a nice family roadtrip vehicle, starting in 2020, they were updated to cut back on some road noise, giving the cabin a quieter ride.
• In 2019, the diesel engine was added to the lineup, and this offered slightly better mileage, making it perfect for those who are environmentally conscious and want to get the most out of their vehicle.

Being a rather short generation, this one had some time to find where it wanted to be and make it better. The features on this generation are pretty sparse, with the only real change coming to the engine lineup.

At launch, this model only featured a 2L I4 that produced 155 horsepower. While this wasn't the zippiest engine, the mileage more than made up for it. The EPA gave this engine a rating of 28 MPG combined, really shining on the highway at 32 MPG.

It wasn't until 2014 when Mazda aimed at making the powertrain a bit better. They did this by introducing 2.5L I4. This one came with a bit more power, now making 184 horsepower. While not too much more, it still gives you a bit of a boost. This engine didn't fall too far behind in terms of mileage, coming with an EPA rated 27 MPG combined.

Starting as model year 2017, these ones came with a bit more all around appeal. In its first year on the market, Mazda ditched the smaller engine for the North American market, leaving the 2.5L I4 as the sole engine. This generation came available in Sport, Touring and Grand Touring trims. With the first two coming with 17-inch wheels, while the Grand Touring boasted 19-inch wheels.

In 2019, the model saw a change to the engine lineup. This engine was supposed to be on models from the start of this generation, but as fate would have it, it wasn't available until 2019 models. This is a 2.2L I4 turbodiesel. This engine had great mileage, coming in at 29 MPG combined. Making it the best option out of the two available.

During the 2020 year models, the line saw some changes. These equipped the model with automatic headlights, and automatic rain-sensing windshield wipers standard. To make the ride more comfortable, Mazda reworked the build to cut back on road noise, vibration, and harshness across all trims.

The last change from this year introduced an 8-inch screen for the infotainment system. While it isn't the largest, it will make it a bit easier than before to utilize it. The last addition was a new off-road traction assist system.

Still not content with the interior of the vehicle, Mazda upgraded the screen again. This is now sitting at 10.25-inches, making it better than before. Starting in 2022, the model saw even more change, with the vehicle now coming with standard all-wheel drive across all trims.

There were other changes throughout this generation, but they were mainly cosmetic, such as new badging designated which engine is under the hood.