Zoom, Zoom: Shopping for a Used Mazda CX-5

Mazda turned heads in 2013 with the debut of the CX-5, a sporty crossover SUV that embodies Mazda’s Kodo Soul of Motion design philosophy to create vehicles that reflect the beauty of a car in motion. The CX-5’s sophisticated design, paired with its nimble handling and innovative features, is why it’s one of the best-selling crossovers in America. Since you can find these features on most first and second-generation models, more and more drivers are shopping for used CX-5s that put more money in their wallets and deliver the same performance and features that Mazda is known for. So, as your used Mazda dealership, we’re here to share everything you should look for on your search for a used CX-5.

First-Generation CX-5 (2013-2016)

If you’re looking for exceptional affordability, then you’ll want to shop for a first-generation CX-5. The award-winning crossover set the stage for innovation as the first Mazda to feature the all-new SKYACTIV technology. The heart of this technology is under the hood with the SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter gasoline engine that’s paired with a SKYACTIV-Drive 6-speed automatic transmission. This delivers 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque without sacrificing efficiency. The 2013 CX-5 delivers exceptional fuel economy for any SUV at up to 34 MPG on the highway.

The CX-5’s nimble handling, however, didn’t make up for its lack of power, and drivers wanted quicker acceleration from the crossover. Mazda listened to the demands and added the SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine to its powertrain lineup in 2014. Available on the Touring and Grand Touring trims, the engine was paired with the same reliable 6-speed automatic transmission and delivered 184 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. The CX-5’s increase in power and the addition of the new Smart City Brake Support system to maximize safety are two great reasons to shop for a model built between 2014 and 2016.

Second-Generation CX-5 (2017-Present)

Mazda made substantial improvements to the CX-5 in 2017, starting with a re-engineered body and chassis to deliver even better handling in Mazda’s top-selling crossover. The second-generation model also puts a modern twist on Mazda’s Kodo design philosophy by adding a bolder front grille, subtle detailing, sophisticated curves, and a new Soul Red Crystal exterior color option. Inside, you’ll find plenty of luxury with heated front seats, a two-stage reclining rear seat, and rear air conditioning vents to ensure everyone’s comfort. The CX-5 also sees several tech upgrades, including Mazda Radar Cruise Control and a head-up display known as the Active Driving Display that gives you a clear view of speed, mileage, fuel level, and more in a crisp display on the windshield.

Just when Mazda fans thought the CX-5 couldn’t get any better, Mazda raised the bar once again by adding enhanced driver-assist and safety tools as well as premium luxury features. When shopping for a 2018 CX-5, you’ll find every trim offers a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob as well as automatic headlights, rain-sensing windshield wipers, power front seats, and a Blind Spot Monitor with Rear-Cross Traffic Alert. The 2018 model, which earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, also offers the full i-ACTIVSENSE suite on the CX-5 Touring trim to give you more confidence when you’re behind the wheel. The suite of driver-assist and safety tools includes Lane-Keep Assist, Lane Departure Warning, High-Beam Control, Smart Brake Support, and Mazda’s Radar Cruise Control with Stop and Go.

The Ultimate Used CX-5

We saved the best for last, and that’s the 2019 Mazda CX-5. You’ll find Mazda made continuous improvements to the CX-5 since its 2012 debut, but no model compares to the 2019 CX-5, which offers the ultimate in luxury and performance. As Mazda’s best-selling vehicle in the American market, you could say that the automaker put their heart and soul into the 2019 crossover, and it certainly shows.

After years of offering the same SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, Mazda expanded the CX-5’s powertrain lineup to include the all-new turbocharged SKYACTIV-G 2.5T that delivers 320 lb-ft of torque and 250 horsepower. This boost in power comes with the CX-5’s newly improved chassis that now features G-Vectoring Control Plus to improve handling and performance whether you opt for the CX-5 with front-wheel-drive or the available i-ACTIV all-wheel-drive system.

Venturing inside the 2019 CX-5 takes you into a new realm of luxury, comfort, and innovation. For the first time in CX-5 history, you can add heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. The interior can be outfitted with premium Caturra Brown Nappa leather trim with genuine wood and satin chrome accents. The light-colored headliner can be exchanged for a black headliner that gives the interior a more refined feel, especially when outfitted with ambient interior LED lighting. Talk about luxury!

The 2019 CX-5 is also loaded with technology that will keep you connected wherever the road takes you. Mazda offers the latest Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability as well as a trial subscription to SiriusXM with Traffic and Travel Link. When you’re behind the wheel, you’ll have an instant view of the 7-inch touchscreen display or the Active Driving Display with Traffic Sign Recognition that puts all the information you need within eyesight. You’ll also appreciate the 360-degree View Monitor with front and rear parking sensors that make parking anywhere stress-free by alerting you to potential obstacles in the CX-5’s path.

Other Considerations

As you start your search for the best used Mazda CX-5, you’ll want to take a few things into consideration. First, consider your budget and how much you want to spend on a vehicle. If you’re looking to maximize your savings and don’t need all the bells and whistles that a newer model has to offer, then you can easily shop for a CX-5 built between 2014 and 2017. These models offer the more powerful engine that you won’t find on the 2013 CX-5 and come with many features and comforts that make it a great purchase.

If your budget extends higher and allows for more wiggle room on pricing, then we encourage you to shop for a newer CX-5 like the 2019 model. The 2019 CX-5 is especially popular because Mazda added the more powerful 2.5-liter turbocharged engine to its lineup, and that means greater power and more nimble handling than any other CX-5. You’ll also find a suite of innovative technology features and an array of comfort and luxury features like a leather-wrapped steering wheel and ventilated front seats that take the CX-5 to an entirely new level of sophistication.

With whatever used model you choose, it’s always recommended to ask for the CARFAX vehicle history report. These reports are a great way to gain further insight into the vehicle’s history, from its number of owners to any involvement in major accidents, significant repairs, and maintenance history. For customers who are shopping for a used CX-5 or any other make and model, this report is an added layer of protection that delivers more confidence in the quality of the used vehicle.

Zoom Zoom

Instantly recognizable by its sleek design and subtle details, the CX-5 is one of the most elegant and sophisticated crossovers on the road. As Mazda’s best-selling crossover, it’s no surprise that the CX-5 is a hot commodity both on the new and used lot. Why? Because every CX-5 embodies Mazda’s commitment to delivering innovative tools and the ultimate in luxury whether you’re behind the wheel or riding as a passenger.

Which used Mazda CX-5 will catch your eye? Will it be an early model like the 2014, or will it be the fully loaded 2019? Whatever you choose, you’re guaranteed to put a little more “zoom” into your life the moment you get behind the wheel of this agile, elegant, and capable crossover.