Your Perfect Mazda CX-5: A Simple Buyer's Guide

So, you're eyeing a Mazda CX-5, well great choice! This compact SUV has won many hearts for its sharp looks that punch above its price tag, a fun-to-drive personality that’s rare in its class and an interior that frequently feels a step more premium than the competition.

On the other hand with a range of engine options and a sometimes confusing list of trim names, how do you pick your perfect CX-5 without getting lost in the specs? That’s where this guide comes in. I'll break down the key choices such as engine power, common U.S. and Canadian trim levels and offer a few buying tips as well.

Note this guide is primarily based on the 2025 model year as the latest in this generation for the North American market. Keep in mind an all-new CX-5 generation is anticipated for 2026 or 2027, which might influence your buying decision, more on that later!

Step 1: Engine Power - Need a Boost?​

Under the hood of the second-gen CX-5, North American buyers typically find two main engine choices:

The Standard 2.5L SKYACTIV-G Engine (Naturally Aspirated)​

The What: This is the workhorse engine, usually outputting around 187 horsepower. It’s designed for a smooth, capable drive and offers a good balance of power for daily commutes and highway cruising, along with respectable fuel efficiency. It’s the standard engine on most CX-5 trims.​

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The Who: If you’re looking for a reliable, efficient and comfortable SUV for everyday driving, this engine is likely all you need. It gets the job done with quiet competence.​

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The Available 2.5L SKYACTIV-G Turbo Engine​

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The What: Desire more zoom zoom? The Turbo engine delivers a sizable increase in power producing around 227 horsepower on regular 87 octane gasoline and up to an impressive 256 horsepower if you fill up with premium 93 octane. This translates to noticeably quicker acceleration as well as a more dynamic, sporty driving feel.​

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The Who: If you enjoy a more spirited drive, crave that extra oomph for confident merging and passing or simply want the most performance your CX-5 can offer from the factory, the Turbo is calling your name. It often comes standard on the highest trim levels.​

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The Tip: Words on a page can only do so much. If you’re on the fence, test drive them both! The difference in character between the Standard and Turbo engines is something you'll definitely want to experience from the driver's seat.​

Step 2: Making sense of the U.S. CX-5 Trim Levels​

In the United States, Mazda typically structures the CX-5 lineup with a series of "S" trims for the standard engine, special appearance packages and then "Turbo" trims for the more powerful engine. Remember, all-wheel drive (i-Activ AWD) became standard across all U.S. CX-5 trims in the later years of this generation (from 2022 onwards).

Here’s a general idea of how features tend to progress as you move up the U.S. trim ladder. Heads up though as specific names and features can shift slightly year by year, so always check the official Mazda USA website for the exact details of the model year you're considering!

Entry-Level (2.5 S or 2.5 S Select in later model years):​

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What You Get: Don't think "basic" means "bare." You'll typically find essential safety features like blind-spot monitoring and automated emergency braking, Mazda's user-friendly infotainment system with a display screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, push-button start and comfortable cloth seats. It’s a solid, value-packed starting point.​

Mid-Level Comfort (2.5 S Preferred, 2.5 S Premium):​

Consider: For a noticeable jump in comfort and convenience. This is where you’ll often find upgrades like heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, upgraded upholstery moving from cloth to quality synthetic leather (leatherette) or real leather, a power-sliding moonroof and dual-zone automatic climate control. Some trims in this range might also add a power liftgate or an upgraded audio system.​

Carbon Edition (The Style-Focused Choice):​

Consider: If looks are a high priority, the Carbon Edition (or similarly named appearance packages) is for you. It usually builds on a mid-level feature set but adds exclusive Polymetal Gray metallic paint, striking black alloy wheels, gloss black exterior accents (like mirror caps) and often a sporty red leather interior.​

Higher Non-Turbo Luxury (2.5 S Premium Plus):​

Consider: For even more premium touches before jumping to a Turbo. Think features like a Bose® premium sound system, Mazda’s Active Driving Display (a head-up display), perhaps ventilated (cooled) front seats, a heated steering wheel and sometimes additional driver-assistance features.​

The Turbo Trims (2.5 Turbo, 2.5 Turbo Signature):​

Consider: First and foremost, for that potent Turbo engine! Beyond the power, these trims usually come loaded with many, if not all, of the luxury and tech features found in the top non-Turbo trims. They also often get distinct, sportier exterior styling elements.​

2.5 Turbo Signature (The Ultimate CX-5): You get the powerful Turbo engine paired with every luxury Mazda offers for the CX-5 in this generation. This typically means Nappa leather seats with premium stitching, genuine wood interior trim, a sophisticated 360° View Monitor (making parking a breeze), front and rear parking sensors and the full suite of available technology and safety.​

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Step 2 "Part Deux": Understanding CX-5 Trims in Canada​

Mazda often uses a slightly different trim naming strategy, commonly featuring GX, GS and GT, along with special editions like the Kuro Edition or Sport Design and a range-topping Signature model. Like in the U.S., i-Activ AWD became standard across the Canadian CX-5 lineup in later years of this generation.

Here's a typical look at how features often build up in the Canadian CX-5 lineup. Again, this is a general guide, for precise features for a specific model year, check out the official Mazda Canada website!

GX (A Strong Start):​

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What You Get: The GX usually provides a strong foundation with essential safety technologies, Mazda's infotainment system (often with a slightly larger screen than base U.S. models earlier in the generation), Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and critically for Canadian winters, standard heated front seats even on the entry model. The standard 2.5L engine is under the hood.​

GS (The Popular Choice):​

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Consider: The GS often hits the sweet spot for many buyers, adding more desirable comfort and convenience features. This frequently includes a heated steering wheel, upgraded upholstery (like leatherette), a power liftgate, dual-zone climate control and rear privacy glass. Sometimes, a "Comfort Package" or "Luxury Package" is available for the GS, adding things like a moonroof or leather.​

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GT (The Premium Performer):​

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Consider: For a more luxurious and tech-rich experience. The GT typically ushers in features like genuine leather upholstery, a Bose® premium audio system, larger alloy wheels, adaptive front-lighting system (headlights that swivel with turns) and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. The 2.5L Turbo engine often becomes available as an option or standard on the GT or a similarly positioned Sport Design trim.​

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Kuro Edition / Sport Design (Style and Often, Turbo Power):​

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Consider: Much like the U.S. Carbon Edition, the Kuro Edition (meaning "black" in Japanese) or Sport Design trims focus on a distinct, sporty aesthetic. Expect unique exterior paint options (like Polymetal Gray or sometimes Garnet Red), blacked-out wheels and exterior trim and often a special interior treatment like red accents or Garnet Red leather. These trims are frequently paired with the Turbo engine and a high level of features.​

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Signature (The Pinnacle of CX-5 Luxury):​

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Consider: This is the most luxurious CX-5 available in Canada for this generation. It always features the powerful 2.5L Turbo engine and is decked out with the finest materials and technology, including premium Nappa leather seats, genuine Abachi wood trim, a 360° View Monitor, front and rear parking sensors, frameless rearview mirror and advanced interior lighting.​

Step 3: Key Features to Watch For (U.S. & Canada)​

As you compare trims, here are some common features that often mark a significant step up in comfort, convenience or luxury. Decide which of these are important to you:

Leather Upholstery (or high-quality Leatherette): A big step up in interior feel.​

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Bose® Premium Audio System: Are you a music lover?​

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Moonroof/Sunroof: Brightens the cabin and adds an open-air option.​

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Power Liftgate: Super handy when your hands are full.​

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Heated Seats & Steering Wheel: Essential for colder climates (often standard earlier in Canadian trims).​

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Ventilated (Cooled) Front Seats: A blessing in hot weather (usually on higher trims).​

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Head-Up Display (Active Driving Display): Keeps key info in your line of sight.​

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Advanced Safety (like 360° View Monitor, Adaptive Front-Lighting): Adds peace of mind and convenience.​

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The 2.5L Turbo Engine: If engine performance is a priority.​

Step 4: Ready to go shopping? Here are some suggestions...​

Here are a few tips that might make your CX-5 buying journey smoother:

Pinpoint Your Needs and Budget: Before you even visit a dealer, list your "must-have" features versus "nice-to-haves." Also, establish your total budget. This will help you narrow down which trim levels are truly in play.​

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Consult the Official Source: For the absolute latest and most accurate information on features, available packages, current pricing (MSRP) and any special offers for the specific model year you're considering, visit MazdaUSA.com (for U.S. buyers) or Mazda.ca (for Canadian buyers). Features and trim names can have slight variations even within the same generation.​

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The All-Important Test Drive(s): If you’re considering both, try to test drive the standard 2.5L and the 2.5L Turbo back-to-back. You’ll quickly know which one speaks to you.​

Interior Feel: Sit in a few different trim levels if possible. Do those leather seats feel worth it? Is the upgraded sound system a big deal for you?​

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Consider the "End of Generation" Factor (Especially for 2025 Models): The CX-5 generation we're discussing is a well-honed, mature product. Most of the kinks have been worked out and it’s a known quantity for reliability. You might also find some attractive deals as dealers make way for the next generation.​

That "next gen" CX-5 (likely for the 2026 or 2027 model year) means newer styling, potentially new technology and possibly new powertrain options (like a new Mazda developed hybrid system) are coming. If having the absolute latest is important, you might consider waiting. If you appreciate a proven platform and potentially better value, a new 2025 CX-5 might just be the perfect choice.​

Understanding Pricing:​

The MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) is just that, a suggestion. Research what others in your area might be paying.​

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Focus on the "out-the-door" price, which includes all fees and taxes. Negotiate respectfully but firmly.​

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Remember that good value isn’t just the lowest price; it’s getting the right car with the right features for your needs at a fair price.​

Your Perfect CX-5 Awaits​

Choosing a new Mazda CX-5 is an exciting prospect. By understanding the key differences between the Standard and Turbo engines, getting a feel for how features progress through all the various trim levels and approaching your purchase with preparation, you’ll be better equipped to select your perfect CX-5!

For more on the CX-5, check out: Mazda CX-5 Vs. The World