The Mazda CX-5 has once again solidified its position as a leader in the competitive compact SUV market. U.S. News & World Report has honored the 2023 Mazda CX-5 with the prestigious title of Best Compact SUV for the Money, marking another accolade for Mazda’s best-selling vehicle in the United States. With a starting MSRP of $26,700, the CX-5 blends affordability with premium features, making it a standout choice for discerning car buyers.
Jim Sharifi, managing editor at U.S. News Best Cars, highlighted the key attributes that earned the CX-5 this recognition. “The Mazda CX-5 combines desirable features, such as standard all-wheel drive, with a top spot in our rankings,” Sharifi noted. He further emphasized the CX-5’s competitive pricing and low ownership costs, coupled with its exceptional interior quality and engaging driving dynamics. This combination delivers a unique and rewarding experience that sets it apart from other compact SUVs in its class.
Why the CX-5 Stands Out as the Best
The 2023 Mazda CX-5 distinguishes itself through a combination of factors that resonate strongly with SUV buyers. Its standard i-Activ all-wheel drive across all models in the U.S. provides enhanced confidence and control in various driving conditions. This feature alone offers a significant advantage over many competitors in the compact SUV segment, where all-wheel drive often comes as an optional upgrade.
Furthermore, the CX-5’s interior is consistently praised for its premium feel and sophisticated design, rivaling that of luxury brands. This focus on quality extends to the driving experience, where the CX-5 delivers sporty and responsive handling that is uncommon in the SUV category. Mazda’s commitment to driving dynamics ensures that the CX-5 is not just a practical choice, but also an enjoyable one for drivers who appreciate a spirited ride.
Unmatched Safety and Industry Recognition
The Mazda CX-5’s commitment to safety is another cornerstone of its appeal. It has consistently earned top safety ratings and awards, including the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) TOP SAFETY PICK+. Notably, the CX-5 was the first vehicle to achieve a “Good” rating in the IIHS’s rigorous new side impact test, demonstrating its robust safety engineering.
The 2023 model year continues this legacy, incorporating a comprehensive suite of standard safety features. These include Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Smart Brake Support, Advanced Smart City Brake Support, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist. These advanced technologies work together to provide CX-5 drivers with peace of mind, whether navigating city streets or cruising on the highway.
2023 Enhancements and Model Options
For the 2023 model year, Mazda has introduced the new Rhodium White exterior premium paint color, further enhancing the CX-5’s striking Kodo design. Available in eight distinct packages, the 2023 CX-5 offers a range of options to suit diverse customer preferences, while maintaining a high level of standard technology and safety features across the lineup. Each package is designed to provide exceptional value and cater to the specific needs of compact SUV buyers.
Conclusion: The Smart Choice in Compact SUVs
The 2023 Mazda CX-5’s recognition as the Best Compact SUV for the Money by U.S. News & World Report underscores its exceptional value proposition. By combining affordability, a premium interior, engaging driving dynamics, and top-tier safety, the CX-5 stands out as the intelligent choice in a crowded market. For buyers seeking the best blend of practicality, driving pleasure, and overall quality in a compact SUV, the Mazda CX-5 is undeniably a leading contender and worthy of serious consideration.
