Mazda CX-5 GT: 2018 Review & Road Test

Hey car enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT, a crossover SUV that has consistently impressed. We're going to explore what made this particular model a standout in its class, focusing on the features, performance, and overall driving experience. Get ready for a detailed review that'll help you decide if this is the perfect ride for you, covering everything from its stylish design to its impressive tech and safety features. Let's get started, shall we?

Design and Aesthetics: A Stylish SUV

Alright guys, let's talk about the design of the 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT. Mazda has always been known for its elegant and sporty designs, and the CX-5 is no exception. The exterior is a perfect blend of sophistication and athleticism. The Kodo design language, which Mazda is famous for, gives the CX-5 a sleek, flowing silhouette that's immediately eye-catching. The front fascia features a bold grille, flanked by sharp LED headlights that give the car a premium look. The long hood and sloping roofline contribute to its dynamic appearance, making it stand out from other SUVs in its segment. The CX-5 GT also comes with stylish alloy wheels that enhance its overall aesthetic appeal, making it look modern and upmarket.

Moving to the interior, you'll find a well-crafted cabin that's both stylish and functional. The materials used feel high-quality, with soft-touch surfaces and premium finishes. The layout is clean and uncluttered, with a focus on driver ergonomics. The seats are supportive and comfortable, even on long drives, wrapped in leather for that extra touch of luxury. The infotainment system is seamlessly integrated into the dashboard and is easy to use. The design of the CX-5 is truly a testament to Mazda's commitment to creating vehicles that are not only practical but also visually appealing. The overall design gives you the feeling that you are in a premium vehicle, and the build quality is evident throughout. The CX-5 GT's design is more than just about looks; it is about creating a harmonious blend of form and function. This careful design approach is a key reason why the CX-5 has consistently received positive reviews and why it stands out in a crowded market. The combination of sporty looks and premium interior makes it a great choice for those seeking both style and practicality in their SUV.

Exterior Features

The exterior design is where the Mazda CX-5 GT really shines, especially when you consider the small SUVs category. The body style is sculpted and modern, embodying the Kodo design language. The front end is dominated by a distinctive grille and sharp LED headlights, giving the CX-5 a confident stance on the road. The side profile shows off a dynamic silhouette with a sloping roofline and strong character lines. The alloy wheels complement the overall design, adding a touch of elegance. The exterior design also includes practical features like rain-sensing wipers, LED daytime running lights, and power-folding side mirrors. These features are not only aesthetically pleasing but also enhance the functionality of the vehicle, making it more user-friendly. The exterior design of the CX-5 GT strikes a perfect balance between style and utility, making it a head-turner on the road. The exterior design ensures that the car not only looks great but is also practical for everyday use. Mazda has successfully created a vehicle that is both beautiful and functional.

Interior Design

Step inside the 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT, and you're greeted with a beautifully designed interior. The cabin is all about a premium feel, with high-quality materials and a well-thought-out layout. The seats are covered in supple leather, providing both comfort and a touch of luxury. The dashboard is clean and modern, with an intuitive infotainment system. The controls are well-placed, making it easy for the driver to operate the various features. The interior design also focuses on creating a comfortable environment for all occupants. The spacious cabin provides ample legroom and headroom, ensuring a pleasant driving experience. The interior design of the CX-5 GT is a testament to Mazda's attention to detail, resulting in a cabin that is both stylish and functional. The interior design also includes practical features like a power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, and a premium audio system. These features enhance the overall comfort and enjoyment of the driving experience. The interior design emphasizes the balance between luxury and practicality, making it a comfortable and enjoyable space for both the driver and passengers.

Performance and Driving Experience

Now, let's talk about what's under the hood and how it feels on the road. The 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT is known for its engaging driving dynamics. The CX-5 GT is powered by a peppy 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering a solid performance. The engine is paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission, which offers a great balance between fuel efficiency and responsiveness. One of the standout features of the CX-5 is its precise handling. The steering is sharp and responsive, giving you a good feel for the road. The suspension is tuned for a comfortable ride, while also providing good control through corners. Whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the CX-5 GT feels composed and refined. The engine offers enough power for daily driving and highway merges, and the transmission ensures that the power is delivered smoothly and efficiently. The CX-5 is also available with all-wheel drive, which provides added traction and stability, especially in inclement weather conditions. The driving experience is one of the key strengths of the CX-5, making it a joy to drive. The combination of a responsive engine, precise handling, and comfortable ride quality makes the CX-5 GT a standout in its class. Mazda's commitment to providing an enjoyable driving experience is evident in every aspect of the CX-5's performance.

Engine and Transmission

The 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT boasts a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine offers a good balance of power and efficiency, delivering a satisfying driving experience. The engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, which provides smooth and responsive gear changes. The transmission is tuned to maximize fuel efficiency while still providing the necessary power for quick acceleration. This combination makes the CX-5 GT feel peppy and responsive in various driving conditions. The engine delivers 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, providing plenty of power for daily driving and highway maneuvers. The transmission offers both manual and automatic modes, giving the driver more control over the driving experience. The engine and transmission work together to deliver a driving experience that is both engaging and efficient. The engine's smooth power delivery and the transmission's precise gear changes contribute to the overall enjoyment of driving the CX-5 GT. The engine is designed to provide a balance of performance and fuel economy, making it an excellent choice for drivers who want both.

Driving Dynamics and Handling

The driving dynamics and handling of the CX-5 GT are where this SUV truly shines. Mazda is known for its focus on driver engagement, and the CX-5 GT is no exception. The steering is precise and responsive, providing excellent feedback to the driver. The suspension is well-tuned, offering a comfortable ride while also maintaining excellent control through corners. The CX-5 GT feels planted and composed on the road, inspiring confidence in the driver. The body control is exceptional, with minimal body roll during cornering. This makes the CX-5 GT a joy to drive, whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway. The driving dynamics are enhanced by the vehicle's overall balance and weight distribution. The handling of the CX-5 GT is more akin to a sports sedan than an SUV, making it a standout in its class. The driving experience is further enhanced by features like Mazda's G-Vectoring Control, which improves handling and stability by adjusting engine torque in response to steering inputs. Overall, the CX-5 GT offers a driving experience that is both engaging and enjoyable, making it a great choice for those who appreciate a well-engineered vehicle.

Technology and Features

Time to geek out on some tech! The 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT is packed with technology and features that enhance both convenience and safety. The infotainment system is a user-friendly interface that includes a touchscreen display, navigation, and smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This allows you to easily access your favorite apps, music, and navigation systems. The CX-5 GT also includes a premium audio system, providing a high-quality listening experience. The driver assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring, add an extra layer of safety and convenience. These features use advanced sensors and cameras to monitor the road and provide warnings or even take corrective action to prevent accidents. The CX-5 GT also includes a range of other features, such as a power liftgate, heated front seats, and a sunroof, all designed to enhance your driving experience. The technology and features of the CX-5 GT are a testament to Mazda's commitment to providing a modern and enjoyable driving experience. The vehicle is equipped with the latest technology to ensure that drivers and passengers are both connected and protected. The combination of advanced technology and user-friendly interfaces makes the CX-5 GT a great choice for those who want a vehicle that is both technologically advanced and easy to use.

Infotainment System

The infotainment system in the 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT is a highlight, offering a user-friendly interface and a range of features. The system centers around a touchscreen display that is easy to navigate, with clear graphics and intuitive menus. The system includes navigation, allowing you to easily find your way to your destination. Smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is another key feature, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation systems directly from the car's display. The infotainment system also includes a premium audio system, providing high-quality sound for an immersive listening experience. The system is easy to control with both the touchscreen and physical buttons, making it easy to use while driving. The infotainment system is designed to provide a seamless and enjoyable experience for both the driver and passengers. The overall design and functionality of the infotainment system reflect Mazda's commitment to creating vehicles that are both technologically advanced and user-friendly. The inclusion of features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto ensures that drivers can stay connected while on the road, making the driving experience more enjoyable and convenient.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority in the 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT, and it comes loaded with a suite of advanced safety features. These features are designed to help prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision. Key safety features include adaptive cruise control, which automatically maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, and lane departure warning, which alerts the driver if they start to drift out of their lane. Blind-spot monitoring provides alerts if another vehicle is in your blind spot, helping to prevent collisions during lane changes. Other safety features include automatic emergency braking, which can apply the brakes to prevent or mitigate a collision, and rear cross-traffic alert, which warns the driver of approaching vehicles when backing up. These safety features are designed to provide added peace of mind, making the CX-5 GT a safe and reliable vehicle. The CX-5 GT also features a robust safety structure and a comprehensive airbag system, further enhancing occupant protection. The combination of active and passive safety features makes the CX-5 GT a standout in its class. Mazda's commitment to safety is evident in the inclusion of these advanced safety features, making the CX-5 GT a smart choice for those prioritizing safety.

Interior Comfort and Space

Let's talk about the inside and how comfortable it is! The 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT offers a comfortable and spacious interior. The front seats are supportive and offer ample adjustment, ensuring that drivers of all sizes can find a comfortable driving position. The rear seats also provide plenty of legroom and headroom, making them suitable for adults on longer journeys. The cabin is well-insulated, minimizing road and wind noise, creating a peaceful environment. The use of high-quality materials throughout the interior adds to the overall comfort and premium feel. The interior design is both stylish and functional, with a focus on creating a comfortable and enjoyable space for both the driver and passengers. The spaciousness of the cabin makes it feel airy and open, while the comfortable seats and quiet ride make it a pleasant place to spend time. The thoughtful design and quality of the interior contribute to the overall appeal of the CX-5 GT, making it a comfortable and enjoyable vehicle for everyday use and longer trips.

Seating and Space

The seating in the 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT is designed for comfort and support. The front seats are well-bolstered, offering good support during cornering and providing a comfortable driving position. The driver's seat is power-adjustable, allowing for easy adjustment to find the perfect driving position. The rear seats offer ample legroom and headroom, providing comfortable space for passengers, even on longer journeys. The seats are upholstered in high-quality materials, adding to the overall premium feel of the interior. The CX-5 GT also offers a generous amount of cargo space, making it practical for carrying luggage, groceries, or other items. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more cargo space, enhancing the vehicle's versatility. The thoughtful design of the seating and space in the CX-5 GT contributes to the overall comfort and practicality of the vehicle, making it a great choice for both daily commutes and family trips.

Materials and Design

The materials and design of the interior contribute to the premium feel of the 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT. The cabin features high-quality materials, including soft-touch surfaces, leather upholstery, and premium trim. The design is modern and stylish, with a focus on creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing environment. The dashboard is well-laid out, with an intuitive infotainment system and easy-to-reach controls. The materials used throughout the interior are durable and feel luxurious. The design is sleek and uncluttered, creating a sense of spaciousness. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the interior, from the stitching on the seats to the finish on the dashboard. The combination of high-quality materials and thoughtful design results in an interior that is both comfortable and stylish. The materials used enhance the overall appeal of the CX-5 GT, making it a pleasant place to spend time. The interior design strikes a perfect balance between form and function, making it both practical and visually appealing.

Fuel Efficiency

Let's not forget about fuel efficiency. The 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT offers competitive fuel economy for its class. The 2.5-liter engine provides a good balance between performance and efficiency. You can expect decent miles per gallon, making it an economical choice for daily commuting and longer journeys. The specific fuel economy figures may vary depending on driving conditions and driving style. The CX-5 GT's fuel efficiency is one of its many strengths, making it a practical choice for those who want a combination of performance and economy. The fuel efficiency of the CX-5 GT contributes to its overall value proposition, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Mazda has designed the CX-5 GT to offer good fuel economy without compromising on performance, making it a great choice for various driving needs.

MPG Ratings

The Miles Per Gallon (MPG) ratings for the 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT are competitive for its class, offering a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency. The official EPA ratings for the 2.5-liter engine typically hover around the following figures. These ratings are an indicator of the fuel efficiency, but the actual figures may vary based on driving conditions, driving style, and the specific configuration of the vehicle. Drivers can often achieve these ratings with careful driving habits. The good fuel economy of the CX-5 GT is one of its selling points, making it an economical choice for both daily commutes and longer journeys. The combination of good fuel economy and a responsive engine makes the CX-5 GT a practical and enjoyable vehicle to drive. The MPG ratings contribute to the overall value proposition, making it an attractive option for those prioritizing fuel efficiency.

Value for Money

How about the value, guys? The 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT offers excellent value for money. It comes well-equipped with a range of features, including advanced technology, safety systems, and a premium interior, all at a competitive price point. Compared to its competitors, the CX-5 GT provides a lot of features and quality for the price. The combination of its stylish design, engaging driving experience, and well-appointed interior makes it a standout choice in the compact SUV segment. You're getting a lot of car for your money. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking a premium-feeling vehicle without breaking the bank. The overall value for money of the CX-5 GT is a significant factor in its popularity and positive reviews. Mazda has managed to create a vehicle that offers a great combination of features, performance, and style, all at a competitive price, making it a smart purchase for many buyers.

Pros and Cons

Let's break down the good and bad of the 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT:

Pros:

• Stylish Design: The CX-5 GT boasts a sleek and modern design.
• Engaging Driving Dynamics: Offers a fun and responsive driving experience.
• Premium Interior: Features high-quality materials and a well-designed cabin.
• Advanced Technology: Packed with user-friendly tech and safety features.
• Good Value for Money: Offers a lot of features for the price.

Cons:

• Engine Power: While adequate, some may desire more power.
• Rear Seat Space: Some competitors offer slightly more rear legroom.
• Infotainment System: Though improved, some may find the older interface less modern than others.

Conclusion: Is the 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT Worth It?

So, is the 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT worth it? Absolutely! It's a fantastic choice in the compact SUV segment. It offers a great balance of style, performance, technology, and value. If you're looking for a vehicle that is fun to drive, looks great, and is packed with features, then the Mazda CX-5 GT should definitely be on your list. Its combination of a premium feel, engaging driving experience, and advanced features makes it an excellent choice for a wide range of drivers. The overall package is hard to beat, making it a top contender in its class. In short, the 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT is a highly recommended SUV that will undoubtedly continue to impress.

Thanks for reading, and happy driving! Don't forget to like and subscribe for more car reviews and insights!