The Mazda CX-5’s athletic prowess is absolutely impressive. During a week-long test drive, the CX-5 left this driver marveling again and again at the pristine steering responsiveness. This compact crossover vehicle’s exceedingly nimble handling lets the driver feel the fun of driving without sacrificing a comfortable ride. That ultra-smooth ride unfolds inside a cabin that lets the driver easily reach various knobs and touch screen controls, and easily see road- and vehicle- relevant information. (One nifty notifier: the current speed limit. On the tested CX-5 Signature, the roadway’s speed limit was reflected by a red pointer’s speedometer position as well as a speed limit sign icon shown on the windshield’s heads-up display.)

Powering the tested CX-5 Signature is a Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged engine releasing 227 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 310 pounds-feet of torque at 2000 rpm. (The torque increases to 320 pounds-feet at 2500 rpm on 93 octane gasoline.) Engine mates to a 6-speed automatic transmission. CX-5 is offered in five trims: Sport, Touring, Grand Touring, Grand Touring Reserve, and Signature. The vehicle provides 59.6 cubic feet of space with second row folded and 30.9 cubic feet with all seats upright. Engineers and designers paid attention to many details, including making it very easy to locate and use the driver and front passenger seatbelts.