Is your family in need of a new vehicle but you cannot decide between a sedan and an SUV? If so, then you might want to consider a crossover SUV. These vehicles offer drivers something midway between these two types of vehicles and one that we test drove at Money Saving Parent with a good deal of success was the Mazda CX-5 AWD.
Driving and Handling
Mazda CX-5 AWD is a small crossover SUV, similar to a Ford Escape in overall dimensions. That means it doesn’t offer the abundant cargo space in the back, like you get with a full- fledged SUV. But that’s okay- unless you need a ton of space, what the Mazda CX-5 supplies in terms of cargo should be sufficient for most small families.
I drove the Mazda CX-5 around the city and on the freeway and what I like best are its sharp steering, flat cornering, and solid handling. You don’t get the dreaded “tipping sensation” like you sometimes experience in the full size SUV. You feel safe and secure inside the Mazda CX-5, which is more than I can say for other vehicles of this size.
Look at That Body
Mazda CX-5 has a different look on the outside. It has a curvier body than other crossover SUV, many of which take on a more box- like or even station wagon- like appearance. This is a welcome change, as it sets this vehicle apart from others in its class and gives it a more stylish look.
On the inside, I was happy to find USB outlets, perfect for families like ours who can’t seem to venture far from home without our electronics. The navigation system helps get you where you need to go and there are cameras and beeping to help keep you from backing into something unexpectedly. But do you know what I found most interesting of all?- The instrument panel. There is no digital readout of your speed, RPM, etc. No, what you get is an old- fashioned yet always reliable dial arrangement with white numbers/markings on a black background. This isn’t something you find in many modern vehicles, but in the modern, digital age in which we live, flashing lights and numbers are all too commonplace in our everyday lives and for this reason, I actually enjoy the throwback approach.
Smooth Sailing
Mazda CX- 5 is a cool crossover SUV. It has an almost business- like appearance and functionality without getting too serious. It has a look and performance of a vehicle that wants to get the job done and it delivers on most counts.
This vehicle doesn’t offer the roominess of the larger SUV and our kids were quick to point out that they didn’t have the legroom and elbow room like they enjoyed in other vehicles. But that isn’t to say the Mazda CX-5 isn’t worthy- it’s actually a good, solid vehicle for its class and it is priced within the budget limitations of most families. And let’s not forget the high gas mileage- it averages about 30 MPG on the highway and that makes it almost like a hybrid, even though it’s strictly a gasoline- fueled vehicle.
If a new vehicle is on the horizon and you’re torn between a car and an SUV, then the Mazda CX-5 could be just what you’ve been looking for. Give it a spin if you get a chance. It’s got quite a bit to offer for its size and the solid handling, stylish appearance, and impressive fuel economy make it a winner in my book.
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