2022 CX-5 Low speed steering effort issue?

[hoopics]

I now have about 500 miles on our recently purchased 2022 CX-5 Turbo Signature, which we purchased in May with 5800 miles on it. It drives really nicely on the highway -- tracks straight, has nice firm predictable steering feedback -- but I've noticed the steering wheel requires alot of force below 20 mph. Turning the wheel while parked stopped requires alot of force, and dramatically heavier than both my X5 and my wife's MDX. The wheel also snaps back a bit after you turn it while stopped and has some play, suggesting the wheel input isn't fully moving the wheels. It also results in audible noises from the steering motor.

I've seen other threads suggesting the pre-2022's had heavy steering. Has that continued for 22-current vehicles? Do others feel like the slow speed steering requires work, or is it possible I've got an issue? Thanks for any experiences.

 

[N7turbo]

This might be a common complaint from those not accustomed to modern Mazdas. I noticed when I drove the CX-50 they have changed this and made it lighter (not to my liking).

Tires can make a difference in this, too.

I generally don't turn the wheel while parked in most cars, including this one. I don't feel it's good for the tires. Just let the car inch forward a little bit and then turn to your heart's content.

 

[erhayes]

I also wished that my 2022 MAZDA had variable ratio steering because of my bad shoulders. I just learned to live with it. ED