The CX-5 crossover SUV debuted in 2012 as the successor to the Tribute. The first models had a weak power unit, but after a few years of production they achieved success. they often top the compact SUV league table. So which years used Mazda CX-5s are the best on a $20,000 budget?
Is a used Mazda CX-5 a good car?
In its roundup “Best Used Compact SUVs $15,000 to $20,000 for 2023,” US News ranked a couple years of use in the top two spots: 2018 and 2017. The sporty handling, outstanding fuel economy, and The CX-5’s stellar safety ratings make later models worthy competitors in the compact SUV class. Add in its rugged, reliable engine and available all-wheel drive (AWD), and a used Mazda CX-5 is an excellent choice.
, with an original MSRP ranging from $24,045 to $30,695. Average used 2018 CX-5 prices range from about $19,642 to $23,125, depending on the vehicle’s mileage, trim level, options and other factors, according to US News. Of the three – Sport, Touring and Grand Touring – the well-equipped Sport represents the best chance of getting a low-mileage model equipped with AWD.
Standard CX-5 sport suspension equipment includes the following:
- 7.0-inch infotainment display
- Bluetooth
- Two USB ports
- Automatic speed regulation
- Keyless remote access
- Push button start
- Cloth seats
- Leather covered steering wheel
- LED headlights
- 17 inch alloy wheels
- Rear view camera
- Blind spot monitoring
- Rear cross traffic warning
- Low-speed forward collision warning with brake assist
Upgrade to the Touring trim swaps the Sport’s cloth seats for synthetic leather upholstery with heated front seats and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. Dual-zone automatic climate control and two additional USB ports try to keep everyone comfortable and entertained. Other updates include:
- Rain sensitive wipers
- Automatic headlights
- 19 inch rims
- i-Activsense security package
- Full speed forward collision warning
- adaptive cruise control
- Lane departure warning
- Lane keeping assistance
The top-of-the-line 2018 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring includes navigation, leather upholstery and a power-adjustable passenger seat. In addition to these updates, it provides the following:
- Electric tailgate
- Moon roof
- Heated side mirrors
- Adaptive adjustable headlights
- LEDs for lighting
The optional Premium Package adds a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, and a head-up display, but it’s only available in top trim.
include an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and an overall four-star NHTSA rating. The 2018 CX-5 has one recall so far, for side curtain airbags. Make sure an Authorized Mazda Service Center fixes this problem before or shortly after purchase.
2017 Mazda CX-5
Tied with three other compact SUVs on the list, it sits in second place. Its average used price range is $19,043 to $21,595, reports. Redesigned for 2017 and carried over for 2018, this CX-5 comes standard with front-wheel drive (FWD) and a 187-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.
Since the 2018 CX-5 is unchanged from the 2017 model, they are essentially the same. However, minor differences include the following:
- The only recall for 2017 is for the trailer’s wiring harness possibly touching the car’s muffler.
- The 2017 FWD CX5 gets 27 mpg combined, the 2018 FWD models get 28 mpg, and both years with AWD get 26 mpg combined.
Other excellent used compact SUVs for $15,000 to $20,000
The other three compact SUVs in that four-way tie for second place are the 2017 Kia Sportage and the 2017 and 2018 Hyundai Tucson. All three competitors have lower used prices, but are also below the . However, both are worthy rivals thanks to superb warranties from Hyundai and Kia.
