2020 Mazda CX-5

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Rating7.1

Ranked #7 in 

SUV
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$25,190 - $37,155
Starting Price 
M. Hannigan's image
M. Hannigan 

Content Writer,

Updated on June 10, 2024

ProsConsWhat's New

Neatly laid out Interiors

7 Seater Configuration not available

New key fob

Great Exterior Styling

Lower Cargo Space as compared to 5 seater rivals

Extra safety features added as standard

Potent engines on offer

New and updated infotainment system

User Friendly Infotainment System

Turbocharged engine gets more torque

Specs & Features

$25,190

price

187 hp @ 6000 rpm

horsepower

186 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm

torque

6-Speed Shiftable Automatic

transmission

2.5L 4cyl FWD 6A

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

One of the top-selling cars from the Mazda stable, the 2020 CX-5 compact SUV has been a crowd favorite in the US for all the good reasons. Blessed with a superb 250 hp 2.5L turbocharged engine along with great driving dynamics, the 2020 CX-5 has arrived to build on the same reputation its predecessors have established. For 2020, minor feature changes such as an updated infotainment system for top-end trims, and a new key fob are the only saving grace this year.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 starts at $25,190 for the base FWD Sport trim and goes over $37,000 for the top-end AWD Signature trim. A total of 5 trims are on offer namely the Sport, Touring, Grand Touring, Grand Touring Reserve, and Signature. Furthermore, Mazda also introduces plenty of safety features as standard across the trim lineup.

Buying Advice

The Touring trim will be suited to most consumers, who want their SUV to be high on tech and comfort without being too heavy on pocket.

Comparative Analysis against Competition

The Mazda CX-5 has been famed for its exteriors and driving dynamics. Its exteriors has been one of the best-looking SUVs in the segment and a big talking point for the SUV as well. A small test drive of the Mazda will make you fall for the superbly tuned chassis and suspension of the Mazda CX-5 and will make you drive it more and more. The 2020 Mazda comes in a total of 5 trims and is available in both FWD and AWD configurations. Rivals of the 2020 Mazda CX-5 include the likes of Chevrolet Equinox, Ford Escape, and the Honda CR-V.

Features
6.0/10

Mazda offers a total of 5 trims on offer, namely Sport, Touring, Grand Touring, Grand Touring Reserve, and Signature, with prices ranging from $25,190 to $37,155. In terms of trims and features, Mazda has added a new top-of-the-line trim for the 2020 iteration of the CX-5, called the Signature Trim. The Signature and the Grand Touring Reserve Trim also get a new powerful 2.5L turbocharged engine from the CX-9 that delivers 250 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. On the feature front too, the premiumness of the features does increase as you move up the trim table.

Trims

Sport

Touring

Grand Touring

Grand Touring Reserve Signature

Price(2WD)

$25,190

$26,800

$30.310

N/A N/A

Price(AWD)

$26,590

$28,230

$31,710

$35,135

$37,155

Features

AM/FM Radio with Bluetooth Connectivity

Adds/Upgrades these from “Sport”

Adds/Upgrades these from “Touring”

Adds/Upgrades these from “Grand Touring”

Adds/Upgrades these from “Grand Touring Reserve”

 

17” Alloy Wheels with Electronic Parking Brake

Mazda Radar Cruise Control

Universal Garage Door Opener

Genuine Layered Wood Trim

Frameless Auto-Dimming Interior RVM

 

Automatic LED Headlamps with Daytime Running Lamps

High Beam Control System

Interior Auto Day/Night Electrochromic Mirror

Ventilated Front Seats

Nappa Leather Seating Surfaces

 

Adaptive Cruise Control

Rear Privacy Glass

Power Sliding Moonroof

Heated Steering Wheels

LED Lighting for Glovebox, Cargo Area, Vanity Mirrors
 

7” Full Touchscreen Infotainment System

6 Way Power Adjust Driver Seats

8 Way Powered Driver Seat Adjust

Heated Front Seats

360 Degree View Monitor

 

Power Windows and Front Bucket Seats

Dual Zone Climate Control

19” Aluminum Alloy Wheels

Active Driving Display with Traffic Sign Recognition

Front and Rear Parking Sensors

 

Steering Mounted Controls

Apple Car Play and Android Auto

10 Speaker BOSE Audio System

Windshield Wiper De-Icer

Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel

 

Rear View Camera, 2 Front USB, and AUX Input

Heated Front Seats

LED DRL, Fog lamps, and Combination lamps

 

 

We recommend

The Touring trim will be best suited to most consumers, who want their SUV to be high on tech and comfort without being too heavy on the pocket. The Touring trim also offers a good amount of safety features. Furthermore, also opt for the 2.5L turbocharged engine for better performance.

Fuel Economy
5.0/10

The 2020 Mazda CX-5, with a 2.5L NA four-cylinder engine in place, is EPA-rated at 25 MPG in the city and 31 miles to the gallon out on the highway. This is with the FWD setup in place. On opting for the AWD setup, the figures drop by exactly 1 MPG. Then there is the more potent 2.5L turbocharged Inline-4 engine in place, that apart from th performance aspect also aces the fuel efficiency front. It is rated at 22 and 27 miles to the gallon out on the city and highway respectively.

Model

2020 Mazda CX-5

2020 Chevrolet Equinox

2020 Honda CR-V

2020 Ford Escape

MPG (city)

25

26

28

27

MPG (highway)

31

31

34

33

MPG (combined)

28

28

30

30

Range (city/highway) (miles)

370 / 459

387/462

392 / 476

396 / 411

Tank Capacity (gal)

14.8

14.9

14.0

14.7

In terms of consumption, the 2020 Mazda CX-5 delivers good numbers despite its big weight courtesy of its efficient Skyactiv technology in the 2.5L motor. The CX-5 mileage ranks among the best in our comparison today and is only beaten by the ultra frugal Honda CR-V. The 370-mile range in the city with the 2020 CX-5 makes for lesser trips to the gas station courtesy of the big 14.8-gallon tank capacity and good mileage numbers.

Interior
7.0/10

Step inside and it's immediately apparent that Mazda has crafted a fine interior Consumerreports.org

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 can seat 5 passengers and there is no option for a 7-seater configuration on any of the trims. The front seats are well-bolstered and offer a good view of what's outside. The armrests are all around padded and are at equivalent stature bearing a happy driving position. The CX-5 Touring gets a 6-way control driver's seat with manual lumbar support that adds to the driving comfort as well.

While the texture inside in the base trim looks extraordinary, the Touring trim's leather-rich interiors exude a richer feel. The ergonomics especially the ingress and the egress into the cabin isn't much of an issue due to the wide-opening doors. The seats are also at the perfect height which allows you to slide in and out of the vehicle. The doors open wide enough making it dead easy to place in a child seat.

A fresh and sharp-looking dash-mounted 7-inch touchscreen carries out the infotainment responsibility on all trims. While driving, the rotating controller feels natural and the UI is simple and direct. For 2020, Apple Car Play and Android Auto compatibility have been added to the feature set as well. The base CX-5 Sport gets a 4 speaker sound framework while the CX-5 Touring gets a 6-speaker sound framework. Keeping with the upscale aura of CX-5, a 10-speaker Bose premium sound framework is discretionary on CX5 Touring and standard on CX-5 Grand Touring. CX-5 Touring and CX-5 Grand Touring additionally get Mazda Navigation System.

Model

2020 Mazda CX-5

2020 Chevrolet Equinox

2020 Honda CR-V

2020 Ford Escape

Passenger capacity

5

5

5

5

Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)

39.7/57.1/41.0

40.0/57.2/40.9

40.1/57.9/41.3

40.0/ 57.6/ 42.4

Rear (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)

39.0/54.8/39.6

38.5/55.5/39.7

39.2/55.6/40.4

39.3/ 56.0/ 40.7
Cargo Capacity 30.9 cu. ft 29.9 cu. ft 39.2 cu. ft 33.5 cu. ft

There is not much to talk about the Cargo Capacity of the 2020 Mazda CX-5. In terms of the other 5-seater SUVs, the CX-5 offers one of the lowest spaces in the comparison in terms of sheer numbers. However, the 30.9 cu ft. of cargo space is good in terms of compact SUV standards and will accommodate most of your luggage with ease. The seats fold flat which makes it pretty easy to slide heavy items to the front of the vehicle. The release latches for the second-row seats are located in the cargo area which makes it convenient to fold down the seats. 

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 comes loaded with a host of features inside-

  • Auto-Dimming Inside Rear View Mirror
  • Power Adjustable Driver Seats
  • Heated and Ventilated Leather Front Seats
  • Keyless Access with Push Button Start
  • Dual Zone Climate Control
  • Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel
  • Flat Folding Rear Seats

Exterior
8.0/10

Mazda has nailed the recipe for how a crossover-SUV shoul look - at least, in our opinion - Carbuzz

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 has always been one of the top picks for customers who wanted a stylish compact SUV to be drive-in. There are some sharp character lines running across the body of the SUV which exudes flair. The characteristic Mazda grill with the signature Mazda headlamps adds to the external appeal of the SUV and enhances its charm on onlookers.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 ranks amongst the shortest SUV in its segment. This gives Mazda an advantage in parking in tight spaces or crowded areas or moving through tight traffic. The ground clearance of 7.5 inches gives the CX-5 enough space to easily crawl over the biggest of speed bumps or wade through small brooks easily. Mazda ranks amongst the most accommodating SUV for tall riders as the 66.2 in. of height gives good headroom to passengers over 6ft of height.

Model

2020 Mazda CX-5

2020 Chevrolet Equinox

2020 Honda CR-V

2020 Ford Escape

Curb weight (lbs.)

3541

3274

3337

3298

Length(in)

179.1

183.1

182.1

180.5

Width(in)

72.5

72.6

73.0

74.1

Height(in)

66.2

65.4

66.1

66.1

Ground clearance (in)

7.5

6.9

7.8

6.5

Wheelbase (in)

106.2

107.3

104.7

106.7

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 is one of the best-looking compact SUVs in the class and one of the reasons for this is its good set of exterior features.

  • Alloy Wheels
  • Windshield Wiper De-Icer
  • Automatic Power Folding Heated Side Mirrors
  • Front and Rear Parking Sensors
  • Automatic Rain Sensing Wipers
  • High Beam Control System
  • Power Sliding Moonroof
  • LED Daytime Running Lamps, Fog Lamps, and Combination Lamps

Safety
8.0/10

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 is one of the safest crossovers in the segment. For the year 2020, Mazda also makes the i-Activesense suite of safety tech as standard across the trim lineup. Mazda has also had a good safety crash-test track record with its CX-5. The 2019 CX-5 got a 4 overall star from NHTSA and a top safety pick award from the IIHS. With a lot changing from last year's model, the 2020 CX-5 gets an overall 5 on 5-star rating from the NHTSA, and also a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS.

Some of those safety features included within the CX-5 are-

  • ABS with Electronic Brake Force Distribution
  • Dynamic Stability Control with Traction Control
  • Hill Launch Assist
  • Blind-spot monitoring system
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
  • Forward Collision Warning system
  • Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go
  • Lane departure warning system

Competition
8.0/10

2020 Mazda CX-5 vs 2020 Honda CR-V

There is no denying the fact that the Honda CR-V is one of the best SUVs in the segment. It flaunts an easy-to-understand infotainment system and best-in-class storage space. The CR-V additionally has a rich lodge that offers two lines of seating and has enough space to oblige grown-ups. The Mazda, however, is a more enthusiastic performer bundled with a chassis that can take that. The Mazda also offers a better off-road riding experience and better sound insulation inside the cabin.

2020 Mazda CX-5 vs 2020 Chevrolet Equinox

The Mazda CX-5 is one of the sportiest SUVs in the segment. Mazda offers one of the best 2nd-row seating arrangements in the class as well. When it comes to the off-road ability, both the SUVs are nearly matched and have potent 4WD systems. The 2020 Chevy Equinox, however, offers similar performance at a lower price and also edges out the Mazda in terms of MPG in the city.

Final Verdict
8.5/10

The Mazda CX-5 has managed to make a strong name for itself in the already crowded compact SUV market. The CX-5 impresses us with its responsive engine, potent chassis, and great off-road manners. The 2020 Mazda CX-5 also offers great practicality in terms of the space offered for passengers and in terms of storage options. We do however miss the option of 7 seats which some of the competition offers. Overall, if you want a compact SUV that stands apart from the crowd in terms of its looks, has a well-appointed interior, and offers immense driving pleasure both on the tarmac and off it, the 2020 Mazda CX-5 is the SUV that fits the bill well.

Trims

    Sport
    $25,190 onwards
    • 7-Inch touchscreen
    • Four-Speaker sound system
    • Led headlights
    • Push-Button ignition
    Touring
    $26,830 onwards
    • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
    • Heated Front Seats
    • Keyless entry
    • Power-Adjustable driver's seat
    • Six-Speaker sound system
    Grand Touring
    $30,310 onwards
    • Driver-Seat memory functions
    • Leather upholstery
    • Power-Adjustable passenger seat
    Grand Touring Reserve
    $35,135 onwards
    • 8-Inch touchscreen
    Signature
    $37,155 onwards
    • Front and rear parking sensors
    • Surround-View camera

Compare to similar cars

Price

$25,190- $37,155

Engine

Gasoline

Rating

7.1

Horsepower

250 hp @ 5000 rpm

Torque

320 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm

Capacity

5

Read Review

$31,995- $43,600

Gasoline

6.2

197 hp @ 6300 rpm

192 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm

5

Read Review

$23,800- $35,700

Gasoline

6.61

170 hp @ 5600 rpm

203 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm

5

Read Review

$24,885- $36,835

Gasoline

7.36

181 hp @ 6000 rpm

177 lb.-ft.

5

Read Review

$25,000- $40,600

Gasoline

7.12

170 hp @ 5600 rpm

203 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm

5

Read Review

$20,820- $28,890

Gasoline

6.11

141 hp @ 6500 rpm

127 lb.-ft. @ 4300 rpm

5

Read Review

$26,275- $39,575

Gasoline

7.32

185 hp @ 6000 rpm

178 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm

5

Read Review

$25,840- $38,495

Gasoline

6.59

180 hp @ 6400 rpm

171 lb.-ft. @ 4600 rpm

5

Read Review

$22,105- $31,900

Gasoline

6.85

180 hp @ 6400 rpm

175 lb.-ft. @ 3900 rpm

-

Read Review

$26,990- $41,890

Gasoline

7.05

185 hp @ 6000 rpm

178 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm

7

Read Review

2020 Mazda CX-5 vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Quarter Mile
    Top Speed
    SourceCompare
    8.6 sec16.4 sec-
    7.4 sec15.7 sec124 mphreddit
    7.7 sec16 sec110 mph
    8.1 sec15.4 sec114 mph
    8.2 sec16.3 sec-
    8.3 sec16.5 sec122 mph

    2020 Mazda CX-5 vs competitor's MPG

      Car Name
      MPG City
      MPG Highway
      MPG Combined
      Fuel Tank Capacity
      Range (C/H)
      SourceCompare
      25 mpg31 mpg28 mpg14.8 gal.370/458.8 mi.
      2020 Kia Niro

      Ranked #1

      51 mpg46 mpg49 mpg11.9 gal.606.90/547.40 mi.
      26 mpg35 mpg30 mpg14.5 gal.391.5/507.5 mi.
      27 mpg33 mpg30 mpg14.8 gal.399.60/488.40 mi.
      28 mpg34 mpg30 mpg13.2 gal.369.6/448.8 mi.
      28 mpg34 mpg30 mpg14 gal.392/476 mi.

      2020 Mazda CX-5 vs competitor's dimensions

        Car Name
        Length
        Width
        Height
        Ground Clearance
        Wheelbase
        SourceCompare
        2020 Mazda CX-5

        Ranked #13

        179.1 in.72.5 in.66.2 in.7.5 in.106.2 in.
        189 in.74.4 in.66.3 in.7.3 in.109.4 in.
        187.8 in.74.4 in.66.1 in.7.3 in.108.9 in.
        185.1 in.72.4 in.66.3 in.7.9 in.109.8 in.
        184.8 in.71.3 in.67.3 in.8.5 in.105.1 in.
        184.5 in.72.4 in.68 in.7.8 in.106.5 in.

        2020 Mazda CX-5 vs competitor's trunk space

          Car Name
          Trunk Capacity
          Passenger Volume
          Max Trunk Volume
          SourceCompare
          30.9 cu.ft.103.6 cu.ft.59.6 cu.ft.
          33.5 cu.ft.104 cu.ft.65.4 cu.ft.
          31 cu.ft.102.2 cu.ft.61.9 cu.ft.
          11.3 cu.ft.154.2 cu.ft.73 cu.ft.
          22.6 cu.ft.94.6 cu.ft.48.9 cu.ft.
          35.4 cu.ft.111.9 cu.ft.76.1 cu.ft.

          2020 Mazda CX-5 vs competitor's cargo space

            Car Name
            Cargo Volume
            Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area
            Max Cargo Volume
            SourceCompare
            63.8 cu.ft.30.9 cu.ft.59.6 cu.ft.
            --59.8 cu.ft.Jeep USA
            79.2 cu.ft.31 cu.ft.61.9 cu.ft.
            14.9 cu.ft.29.9 cu.ft.63.9 cu.ft.
            76.1 cu.ft.35.4 cu.ft.76.1 cu.ft.
            2020 Kia Niro

            Ranked #6

            51.3 cu.ft.25.7 cu.ft.51.3 cu.ft.

            2020 Mazda CX-5 vs competitor's towing capacity

              Car Name
              Towing Capacity
              Payload Capacity
              Weight
              SourceCompare
              2000 lbs.1034 lbs.3541 lbs.
              4500 lbs.1000 lbs.3590 lbs.Jeep USA
              2959 lbs.1095 lbs.2906 lbs.
              2020 Kia Niro

              Ranked #3

              2800 lbs.849 lbs.3100 lbs.
              2000 lbs.-3298 lbs.
              2000 lbs.1525 lbs.3810 lbs.

              2020 Mazda CX-5 SUV Problems, Issues, Complaints, Recalls, and which year to avoid?

              0

              Recalls

              0

              Investigations

              90

              Complaints
              Overall Safety Rating
              Read More

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              Horsepower : 148 hp @ 6000 rpm

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              2020 Mazda CX-5 User Reviews

              1.0

              [1 Reviews]

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              POPULAR TAGS

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              2021 Mazda CX-5

              Sport 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A)

              1

              User Overall Rating

              Posted On: September 30, 2023

              Love the Mazda CRX 5 Touring. Went to several states to find the one with beautiful red paint

              Pros - Preforms well

              Cons - Paint has so many scratches and dings in it. The expensive paint is so thin!

              Cannot believe Mazda has not offered a solution to this problem. I know several other owners even a Mazda sales person who has the same problem! Dealer Name: Mckinney Dodge | Dealer City: Bakersville Got me the car I wanted

              2/10
              Features
              1/10
              Interior
              1/10
              Design
              1/10
              Safety
              1/10
              Reliability
              1/10
              Deal Value
              1/10
              Dealer Review