Mazda has dubbed its 2016 CX-5 crossover utility vehicle (CUV) as the overachiever in its class considering how it is holding its own in the highly competitive segment that features the refreshed Honda CR-V, the Toyota RAV4, the Ford Escape, the Nissan Rogue, and the Subaru Forester.
Other carmakers also have their respective entry in the CUV segment because most motorists these days have expressed their preference on the vehicle compared to the larger but otherwise less fuel efficient SUVs.
According to Auto Trader, the 2016 Mazda CX-5 has become one of the favorite compact crossovers in the motoring retail markets today because it nails just about every requirement that owners demand on such vehicle.
While it may not be selling as well as the Honda CR-V or the Toyota RAV4, the 2016 Mazda CX-5 is actually a great driver’s car, in addition to its other remarkable features including great fuel economy, expressive good looks, and the fact that a manual transmission is still offered on the base Sport trim.
Although most vehicles of the new generation have an automatic transmission on their base models, there is still no substitute to manual transmission to make the driver really feel in control of the vehicle wherever he goes.
Automatic transmission is good for city driving but for off-road adventures and other types of journey, manual transmission is still the preferred mode of grizzled drivers as they can actually feel the real power of the vehicle with it.
Freshened exteriors and modified interiors
The 2016 CX-5 has also been freshened with new stylings both in its front and rear ends. In terms of its cabin, a new dash, and center console is accentuated by a 7-inch touchscreen and Mazda Connect infotainment system.
Bluetooth has been made standard across the line, and new safety options include LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning.
The vehicle’s suspension has likewise been improved as well as its great front seats. The added sound insulation has resulted in a 10% reduction in interior sound levels at highway speeds.
For a good-looking compact crossover that is priced from $22,675 to $35,000, the 2016 Mazda CX-5 is certainly a good buy.
Fun-to-drive demeanor
Edmunds.com describes the 2016 Mazda CX-5 as a top pick among small crossovers in the market today. With its spacious, functional interior, impressive fuel economy, top safety scores, fun-to-drive demeanor, the vehicle gives its owners the supreme edge without really spending a lot of money in buying it.
The 2016 CX-5 offers an engaging driving experience, roomy and comfortable seating both for the driver and its passengers, and has many desirable safety features too.
The only downside to the CUV, as determined by some motoring critics is that it has a subpar stereo sound quality and its base engine has relatively weak acceleration.
The fourth and latest iteration to the Mazda CX-5, the 2016 edition offers only minor but meaningful modifications from its previous model.
Except for some outward alterations, the 2016 Mazda CX-5 still maintained the uncluttered exterior styling that the brand has been known to exude when its first generation was introduced in the market in 2012 as a 2013 model.
Among these exterior modifications include the new grille and horizontal strips as well as the addition of the rear LED light signatures to mirror those of the optional headlights out in the front.
Mazda has maintained its groundbreaking Skyactive engine and chassis technologies ensuring that the 2016 CX-5 remains an agile crossover utility vehicle just like its predecessor variants.
Much of the modifications on the 2016 Mazda CX-5 are made on its interiors, making its cabin comparable to those of very expensive crossovers and SUVs from luxury carmakers. Mazda, after all, is regarded in the motoring industry, as the BMW among mid-range car manufacturers of the world.
Featuring an expressive design highlighted by big wheel arches and rising window line, the 2016 Mazda CX-5 has struck a good balance between its sports sedans and the real world dimensions of a crossover utility vehicle.