9. 2nd Gen Mazda CX-5
The second-generation Mazda CX-5 combines handsome styling, an upscale interior, excellent everyday driving dynamics, and useful AWD into one of the more enjoyable compact SUVs of its era, although prospective long-term owners should pay close attention to maintenance history and several known powertrain and electronic issues.
The second-generation Mazda CX-5 is one of the more compelling compact SUVs of its era, combining attractive styling, a high-quality interior, comfortable seating, and surprisingly engaging driving dynamics. Mazda managed to make the CX-5 feel more substantial and refined than many of its mainstream competitors without sacrificing practicality. The cabin is spacious for both passengers and cargo, visibility is good, the ride is firm but comfortable, and the naturally aspirated 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G engine provides adequate performance while returning respectable fuel economy. Its all-wheel-drive system also performs well in snow and poor weather. The trade-offs are mostly in outright performance and refinement: the naturally aspirated engine can feel strained under heavy acceleration, particularly at higher elevations, and the six-speed automatic can be somewhat eager to downshift and occasionally feel less polished than the transmissions found in some competitors. Still, as an everyday family vehicle, the CX-5 strikes a very appealing balance between comfort, efficiency, quality, and driving enjoyment.
Long-term reliability is somewhat nuanced. The naturally aspirated 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G and conventional six-speed automatic are generally considered a relatively straightforward and durable combination, but certain model years have had notable issues worth checking for. These include problems involving cylinder-head cracking on some 2.5-liter engines, rocker-arm/variable-valve-timing issues associated with a PCM software problem and related recalls, excessive valvetrain noise, and various electronic or driver-assistance-system glitches. Direct injection can also contribute to intake-valve carbon buildup over very high mileage. None of these issues necessarily make the CX-5 a poor choice, but they make maintenance history, recall completion, and a thorough pre-purchase inspection particularly important on an older example. Overall, the second-generation CX-5 is a strong all-around SUV and, when properly maintained, can be a very appealing alternative to the more utilitarian Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.