Mazda CX-5 2022 remains one of the most admired compact SUVs in its class, and it’s easy to see why. With its elegant design, premium interior, confident handling, and improved standard features, this model continues to offer more than just daily commuting comfort. Whether you’re a city driver or someone who enjoys a weekend mountain trip, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 balances power, refinement, and technology in a way very few compact SUVs can.
Let’s explore what makes the Mazda CX-5 2022 such a compelling choice for smart car buyers and driving enthusiasts alike.
Mazda CX-5 2022 Overview
| Feature | Specs |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.5L NA (187 hp) / 2.5L Turbo (256 hp on premium) |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic with AWD standard |
| 0–60 MPH | 8.1 sec (NA) / 6.1 sec (Turbo) |
| Fuel Economy (City/Hwy) | 24/30 mpg (NA) / 22/27 mpg (Turbo) |
| Infotainment | 10.25″ screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto |
| Safety Ratings | 5-Star NHTSA, IIHS Top Safety Pick+ |
| Cargo Space (Behind Seats) | 30.8 cu ft |
| Starting Price | ~$26,250 |
| Max Price (Top Trim) | ~$39,000 |
| Awards | Best Compact SUV, TSP+ by IIHS |
A Fresh Look That Turns Heads
In 2022, Mazda gave the CX-5 a facelift—and not just a minor one. The front and rear bumpers were redesigned, the grille became more three-dimensional, and the headlights and taillights adopted a slimmer, more modern appearance. The changes make it instantly recognizable and more upscale than many of its rivals. This updated exterior follows Mazda’s KODO: Soul of Motion design language, giving the vehicle a sleek and athletic profile.
Performance That Makes Driving Fun Again
One of the best parts about the Mazda CX-5 2022 is that it’s actually fun to drive—a rare trait for an SUV in this segment. Standard across all trims is all-wheel drive (AWD), a major plus for people who live in areas with changing weather or enjoy exploring off the beaten path.
The base model is powered by a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine producing 187 horsepower. But for those looking for extra punch, Mazda offers a turbocharged version of the same engine, which makes 227 horsepower on regular fuel and up to 256 horsepower on premium fuel. This turbo variant also delivers a strong 320 lb-ft of torque, giving it a much more aggressive and confident ride.
Fuel Efficiency You Can Count On
Despite the performance upgrades, the Mazda CX-5 2022 doesn’t sacrifice efficiency. The standard engine returns around 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. The turbocharged version delivers slightly less—about 22 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway—but that’s still impressive considering its power output.
Owners on Reddit and fuel economy forums confirm that with smooth driving and moderate speeds, especially on highways, the vehicle can even exceed those EPA numbers. It’s that balance of efficiency and performance that makes this SUV so versatile.
Interior Comfort That Feels Like Luxury
Step inside the Mazda CX-5 2022, and you’ll immediately notice the premium materials and clean layout. The base trims come with soft-touch surfaces and comfortable cloth seats, but the higher trims offer Nappa leather, ventilated seats, real wood trim, and more.
One major upgrade for the 2022 model is the 10.25-inch infotainment screen that supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While the screen isn’t touchscreen-based (it uses a rotary dial), it offers clear visuals and keeps distractions minimal when driving. Top trims include a Bose® premium audio system, wireless charging, and even a head-up display.
Mazda’s attention to detail rivals that of luxury brands like Audi or Lexus—at a fraction of the price.
Safety That’s Standard and Smart
Safety is a big priority in the Mazda CX-5 2022, and it really shows. The car earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award and a 5-star rating from the NHTSA.
Standard features across all trims include:
- Smart City Brake Support (automatic emergency braking)
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go
Higher trims include 360-degree view monitors, rear automated emergency braking, and driver attention alerts. These advanced safety features make the CX-5 one of the safest compact SUVs on the road today. You can view the full list of safety features on Mazda’s safety tech page.
Driving Experience That’s Hard to Beat
What truly makes the Mazda CX-5 2022 special is its driving dynamics. It’s equipped with Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control Plus, which makes cornering smoother and more controlled by subtly adjusting engine torque during turns. Add to that a suspension system tuned for both comfort and agility, and you get an SUV that feels tight and nimble, almost like a sports car in disguise.
New for 2022, Mazda also introduced Mi-Drive, which allows you to switch between Normal, Sport, and Off-Road modes, adjusting the power delivery and traction to match your road conditions.
Trim Levels and Pricing
There are several trims available, ranging from the base S model to the top-of-the-line Signature Turbo:
- 2.5 S AWD – Starting around $26,250
- Select, Preferred, Carbon Edition, Premium, Premium Plus – Mid-range trims with added features
- 2.5 Turbo AWD – Starting around $36,400
- Turbo Signature AWD – Around $39,000, fully loaded
Cargo Space and Daily Practicality
While it’s not the biggest SUV in its class, the Mazda CX-5 2022 still offers a practical and usable cargo area. You get around 30.8 cubic feet of space behind the second row, which expands to about 59.3 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded flat. The power liftgate (available on higher trims) makes loading groceries, luggage, or sports gear much easier.
The rear seats are also more comfortable than many rivals, making this a great option for small families or road trips with friends.
Real Owner Thoughts and Final Verdict
Drivers who own the Mazda CX-5 2022 often mention its smooth ride, upscale interior, and quiet cabin as reasons they love it. Some also mention that the infotainment dial takes a bit of getting used to, but it becomes second nature quickly.
Overall, if you’re searching for a compact SUV that doesn’t feel cheap, drives like a dream, and keeps you safe and comfortable—this is the one to beat.
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy the Mazda CX-5 2022?
The Mazda CX-5 2022 is more than just a great-looking SUV. It’s built to deliver driving joy, long-term reliability, and top-tier safety—all at a competitive price. If you value quality over quantity and want something that feels premium without a luxury badge, then the CX-5 is the right choice for you.
Want help comparing trims or looking for a detailed buyer’s guide? Just let me know—I can help you decide which version of the Mazda CX-5 2022 is the perfect fit for your lifestyle.
I’m Waqas, an electric vehicle enthusiast and tech writer with over 6 years of experience covering the EV industry. I write in-depth articles, comparisons, and reviews to help readers understand the fast-evolving world of electric mobility. From battery technology to EV launches and charging trends, I aim to make complex EV topics simple, engaging, and informative for everyday drivers and curious readers alike.
