3rd Place: 2016 Mazda CX-5, Jonathan Yarkony

Despite the improvements for the 2016 model that launched early this year, the improved Mazda CX-5 still fell a little short. It’s not disappointing in any way, and only its top-trim highest-in-test pricing cost it the second-place position. For $38,890, we have the GT trim with added Technology Package packing every bell and whistle that Mazda offers in the CX-5, the most impressive of which were the 19-inch wheels that Peter, Lesley and Brian fawned over, earning it a close second in styling.

For those that worry that styling might influence our results too heavily, we tested that theory by removing all the aesthetic scores, and in fact the final results did not change.

The CX-5’s beauty isn’t just skin deep, however. Despite some critics of the HMI menus (Laurance found the “infotainment controls the most confusing, although the screen graphics are attractive”), the CX-5 swept the quality, usability, NVH and driver seat comfort categories. It’s just a good place to spend time, even “elegant” according to Peter and “a very nice place to be” for Brian, the leather, plastics and controls in the highly featured trim all well crafted to go along with the quiet cabin – a flaw prior to this update. Beyond the driver seat, the CX-5 scores fell off for rear seating and cargo, though the 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats with cargo area release levers will appeal to skiers and others that carry long, skinny objects. While odd that the most expensive in test was the only one without power tailgate, the tailgate is light and I’d take that over the Forester’s painfully slow power hatch any day.

Of course, it is the CX-5’s double-win in comfort and handling that is a surprising and impressive accomplishment, with excellent steering making this an easy car to drive, though parking was hampered by its mediocre visibility, and braking was not confidence inspiring. Laurance raved: “Most grown-up ride-and-handling balance – rides terrifically well on bad pavement, and is a fine steer in the corners.” Peter echoed: “Solid, refined and very dynamically cohesive package.” The 2.5L Skyactiv engine is still competitive at 184 hp and 185 lb-ft, trailing only our eventual winner, but the six-speed transmission wasn’t universally loved, Noah finding it “lazy”, especially compared to a couple of our almost instantly responsive CVTs.

Skyactiv also delivered on the efficiency front, with the second best observed fuel consumption on the day of testing and solid EPA ratings. Also, with the new unlimited mileage warranty and seven years of corrosion perforation warranty to combat Mazda’s reputation for rust, we gave it top warranty marks.

The Mazda CX-5 remains a great driver with great looks and quality, but only modest practicality and a high price (also costing it in the value scores) leave it on the lowest step of the podium.

Pricing: 2016 Mazda CX-5 GT AWD
Base Price: $22,995
Tested Trim: $34,895
Options: $2,100 Technology Package (radar cruise, radar brake support, forward collision warning, highbeam control, lane departure warning, SiriusXM satellite radio)
Freight: $1,895
A/C Tax: $100
Price as Tested: $38,990

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