Looking at it as a total package, even including the CX-5's flaws (no AA or Carplay), there's nothing better than a CX-5 in its segment. IMO the only possible alternative for it is a BMW X3. You will have to dip into the CPO market to get one with a relatively affordable price though.
Mostly agree.
Having driven just about every Compact SUV on the market before purchasing the CX-5 (save the Mitsu, Nissan and Mercedes vehicles), I can tell anyone that the CX-5 drives and responds better than everything on the market that I've driven, despite its middling to poor, on-paper power. The only runners up would be the X1, Q3 and the Tiguan as far as overall vehicle feel and performance goes.
BUT
The X1 is smaller feeling inside, and I personally find the controls and options to be confusing and intrusive rather than convenient and intuitive. It also comes at a premium for being a BMW, and will depreciate faster off the lot being a "luxury" vehicle that comes with a premium price tag and maintenance fees. You'll basically be in a base model X1 for the same price as a high end CX-5 or middle pack Tiguan. On the bright side, you get good power and driving dynamics, coupled with BMW's maintenance package for the first couple years anyway.
Q3 is basically like the X1.
The Tiguan is a great machine too, but I had trouble getting a deal where they were brand new and still trying to offload the outgoing models. It also doesn't look that nice to me, almost like a lifted station wagon. It is however roomy and comes with AA and ACP. Interior is nice, and the infotainment and options are great. The deals are probably getting more reasonable now that it's been out for a bit too. MSRP comparison though, the Tiguan is more expensive. The drive is also less dynamic and responsive, but if you don't mind sacrificing some driving pleasure for some options (pano roof, AA and ACP, etc etc.), then its a serious option.
For me it came down to the CX-5 and the Tiguan, and I just preferred the CX-5. It is well-refined, comes with plenty of options, and drives excellently. That combined with the fact I couldn't get a great deal on a Tiguan and it was a no contest.
The only place where I disagree is that the BMW X3 is in the same chat space as a CX-5. If we're talking brand new, it just isn't, hahaha. It's far too expensive to put in the same conversation, unless money is no option, and its in a different competitive class. The X1 I mentioned above would be more in line with the pricing range of a CX-5, Tiguan, Jeep, etc etc. and of a similar size to the CX-5 with a wheelbase only an inch smaller and overall dimensions being similar. While the X3 is just small enough to compare with some of the bigger models in the segment, it really only compares with other luxury makers since it comes in so much more expensive than the regular brands imo.