Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Sport Design AWD. This compact SUV has been turning heads, and for good reason. It combines sleek styling, a sporty driving experience, and all-weather capability, making it a compelling option in a crowded market. Whether you're a seasoned SUV enthusiast or a first-time buyer, this review will give you all the insights you need.

Exterior Design: A Head-Turner

The Mazda CX-5 Sport Design AWD stands out with its Kodo design language, which emphasizes flowing lines and a dynamic stance. The 2022 model received subtle updates that enhance its visual appeal. The Sport Design trim adds unique touches like gloss black exterior accents, including the grille, mirrors, and lower body cladding. These dark elements contrast beautifully with the available paint colors, giving it a more aggressive and sophisticated look. The sharp LED headlights and taillights further contribute to its modern aesthetic.

Other notable exterior features include a rear roof spoiler, dual exhaust outlets, and 19-inch alloy wheels with a dark finish. The overall design is both elegant and athletic, setting it apart from some of its more utilitarian competitors. Mazda has truly nailed the art of creating a vehicle that looks good from every angle. The attention to detail is evident, and it's clear that the designers put a lot of thought into creating a visually appealing package. The gloss black accents are a particularly nice touch, adding a touch of sportiness without being over the top. Compared to previous models, the 2022 update refines the front and rear fascias, resulting in a cleaner and more integrated appearance. The changes may be subtle, but they make a significant difference in the overall look of the vehicle, ensuring it remains fresh and contemporary.

Interior Comfort and Technology: A Premium Experience

Stepping inside the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Sport Design AWD, you'll be greeted by a well-appointed cabin that feels more luxurious than its price tag suggests. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making them ideal for long drives. The Sport Design trim includes leather upholstery with red stitching, adding a touch of sportiness to the interior. The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, with all the essential controls within easy reach. Mazda's focus on driver ergonomics is evident, creating a comfortable and engaging driving environment.

The infotainment system features a 10.25-inch display that is controlled by a rotary knob on the center console. While some may prefer a touchscreen, the rotary controller is easy to use and allows you to navigate the system without taking your eyes off the road. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are standard, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's infotainment system. Other notable tech features include a premium Bose sound system, a head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system. The Bose sound system delivers crisp and clear audio, enhancing the overall driving experience. The head-up display projects important information onto the windshield, allowing you to keep your eyes on the road. The 360-degree camera system makes parking and maneuvering in tight spaces a breeze. The CX-5's interior is a testament to Mazda's commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The materials used are of high quality, and the attention to detail is evident throughout the cabin. The seats offer excellent support and cushioning, making them comfortable for both short commutes and long road trips. The red stitching on the seats and dashboard adds a sporty touch, while the overall design is both elegant and functional. The layout is clean and intuitive, with all the controls within easy reach, ensuring a comfortable and engaging driving experience.

Performance and Handling: Zoom-Zoom Lives On

Under the hood, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Sport Design AWD is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. While this may not sound like a lot on paper, the CX-5 feels surprisingly quick and responsive on the road. The engine is paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission that delivers power to all four wheels. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in all weather conditions, making it a great choice for those who live in areas with snow or rain.

The CX-5 is known for its sporty handling, and the 2022 model is no exception. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing excellent feedback from the road. The suspension is firm but not harsh, striking a good balance between comfort and handling. The CX-5 corners confidently and feels planted on the road. Whether you're driving on twisty back roads or cruising on the highway, the CX-5 delivers an engaging and enjoyable driving experience. Mazda's engineers have done an excellent job of tuning the suspension and steering to provide a sporty and responsive feel. The all-wheel-drive system not only enhances traction but also improves handling by distributing power to the wheels that need it most. The result is a vehicle that is both fun to drive and confidence-inspiring in all weather conditions. The CX-5's performance is a testament to Mazda's philosophy of building cars that are engaging and enjoyable to drive. Even with its relatively modest horsepower output, the CX-5 feels surprisingly quick and responsive, thanks to its well-tuned engine and transmission. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent grip, making it a great choice for those who live in areas with inclement weather.

Safety Features: Peace of Mind

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 Sport Design AWD comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including:

• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Lane Departure Warning
• Lane Keep Assist
• Blind Spot Monitoring
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert
• Automatic Emergency Braking

These features help to prevent accidents and keep you and your passengers safe. The CX-5 has also earned excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), further solidifying its reputation as a safe and reliable vehicle. Mazda's commitment to safety is evident in the comprehensive suite of advanced safety features that come standard on the CX-5. These features work together to provide a safety net for drivers and passengers, helping to prevent accidents and mitigate the severity of collisions. The adaptive cruise control system automatically adjusts the vehicle's speed to maintain a safe distance from the car in front, while the lane departure warning and lane keep assist systems help to keep the vehicle centered in its lane. The blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert systems help to alert the driver to potential hazards that may not be visible in their mirrors. The automatic emergency braking system can automatically apply the brakes in the event of an impending collision, helping to reduce the severity of the impact. In addition to these advanced safety features, the CX-5 also comes standard with a full complement of airbags and other passive safety features. The combination of active and passive safety features makes the CX-5 one of the safest vehicles in its class.

Fuel Efficiency: Respectable Numbers

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 Sport Design AWD achieves respectable fuel economy numbers for its class. It is rated at 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. While these numbers are not class-leading, they are still competitive and should be acceptable for most drivers. The actual fuel economy you achieve will depend on your driving habits and the conditions in which you drive. However, the CX-5 is generally considered to be a fuel-efficient vehicle for its size and capabilities. Mazda's engineers have worked hard to optimize the engine and transmission for fuel efficiency, without sacrificing performance. The result is a vehicle that is both fun to drive and relatively easy on the wallet. The fuel economy of the CX-5 is also aided by its relatively light weight and aerodynamic design. The CX-5 is not the most fuel-efficient vehicle in its class, but it is still a respectable performer in this area. Most drivers should be able to achieve fuel economy numbers that are close to the EPA estimates, making it a practical choice for daily commuting and long road trips.

Pricing and Value: A Competitive Proposition

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 Sport Design AWD is priced competitively within its segment. It offers a good balance of features, performance, and value. While it may not be the cheapest SUV on the market, it offers a more premium experience than some of its competitors. The Sport Design trim adds unique styling elements and features that enhance its appeal. Overall, the CX-5 is a compelling option for those who are looking for a stylish, sporty, and well-equipped compact SUV. Mazda has positioned the CX-5 as a premium offering within the compact SUV segment, and its pricing reflects this. However, the CX-5 offers good value for money, thanks to its long list of standard features and its refined driving experience. The Sport Design trim adds a touch of exclusivity and style, making it an even more appealing option. The CX-5 is a great choice for those who are looking for a stylish, sporty, and well-equipped compact SUV that offers a premium driving experience. It may not be the cheapest option on the market, but it offers a good balance of features, performance, and value, making it a competitive proposition.

Conclusion: A Top Contender

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 Sport Design AWD is a top contender in the compact SUV segment. It offers a winning combination of stylish design, a premium interior, sporty handling, and all-weather capability. While it may not be the most practical or fuel-efficient SUV on the market, it excels in areas that are important to many drivers. If you're looking for a compact SUV that is both fun to drive and luxurious, the CX-5 is definitely worth considering. It's a vehicle that stands out from the crowd and offers a driving experience that is unmatched by many of its competitors. Mazda has created a truly special vehicle with the CX-5, and it's no surprise that it has become one of the most popular SUVs on the market. The CX-5 is a great choice for those who appreciate a stylish design, a premium interior, and a sporty driving experience. It's a vehicle that is sure to turn heads and put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel. The 2022 Mazda CX-5 Sport Design AWD is a well-rounded and compelling option in the crowded compact SUV segment. Its blend of style, performance, and features makes it a standout choice for discerning buyers.