Advantages and disadvantages of Mazda CX-5 2018
The second generation Mazda CX-5 continues to retain the engine, chassis, suspension and design from the previous generation, but equipment and amenities have been significantly upgraded.
Advantage
Stylish appearance: It can be said that any Mazda model is very stylish and the new version of the CX-5 crossover is also considered one of the best-looking models in the segment. With a premium appearance, luxurious details and a soft design, the CX-5 really has an excellent design in the small crossover segment.
Impressive standard features: Even the base 2018 CX-5 Sport comes with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Plus, the daytime running lights and headlights are LED. All of this comes in a car that starts at just $25,125, which is very competitive for a base model in its class.
Great driving experience: The CX-5 is truly the sportiest of the small crossovers. Its excellent handling and ride put it ahead of all its competitors in the segment.
Luxury interior:While there’s no luxury white leather option, the base CX-5’s interior will still turn heads among high-end models. The Touring trim of the crossover gets unique leather and suede upholstery, which is quite appealing, but what makes this model the most luxurious-looking interior in the segment is the overall interior design and material quality.
Disadvantages
The luggage compartment is a bit small: Compared to other competitors in the same segment, the Mazda CX-5 2018 will be slightly inferior in terms of storage capacity with a luggage compartment of only 875 liters. Even when folding the rear seats, the luggage compartment only has a capacity of about 1,688 liters, quite small when most other car models have a luggage compartment with a maximum capacity of 1,982 liters or more.
Lack of engine options: In fact, a crossover with only one engine option will turn away a lot of customers. The CX-5's only engine option is the Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter inline-four, which produces 185 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. Even with advanced cylinder deactivation technology and promises of a diesel option, it doesn't help it gain much traction.
Above average cost of ownership: Although Mazda has made strides in the auto market over the years, its dealer network in North America is still small compared to the likes of Honda, Toyota and Jeep. Having fewer dealers means that maintenance and after-sales service costs are higher than average because the lack of supply of parts and materials pushes up prices and those costs are passed on to customers.
Poor infotainment system: A 7-inch infotainment screen on the dashboard is equipped on almost all versions of the CX-5 crossover. This makes the occupants of the car quite bored and looks a bit childish. The in-car entertainment system could be better if it had Android Auto, Apple Carplay and Wi-Fi hotspot connections.
