Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Sport Design AWD. This compact SUV has been turning heads, and for good reason. It blends sleek aesthetics with impressive performance, making it a strong contender in its class. Whether you're a daily commuter or an adventure seeker, understanding what this vehicle offers is crucial. Let's break down the key features, performance metrics, design elements, and overall value proposition to help you decide if it’s the right fit for you.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Sport Design AWD doesn't disappoint. The standard engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces a respectable 187 horsepower. This engine provides adequate power for most driving situations, whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway. However, if you crave more punch, the available turbocharged 2.5-liter engine is the way to go, boosting the output to 227 horsepower on regular gasoline or 256 horsepower on premium fuel. This added power transforms the driving experience, offering brisk acceleration and confident passing ability.

The AWD (All-Wheel Drive) system is a standout feature, providing enhanced traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. Mazda's i-Activ AWD system constantly monitors road conditions and adjusts power distribution to each wheel, ensuring optimal grip and control. This makes the CX-5 a reliable choice for those living in areas with snow, rain, or uneven terrain. The vehicle's handling is also noteworthy, with precise steering and a well-tuned suspension that strikes a balance between comfort and agility. It feels planted and composed around corners, making it more engaging to drive than many of its competitors. The G-Vectoring Control Plus technology further enhances handling by subtly adjusting engine torque in response to steering inputs, resulting in smoother and more confident cornering.

Fuel economy is another important consideration, and the CX-5 performs reasonably well in this area. The EPA estimates for the standard engine are around 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. The turbocharged engine slightly reduces these figures, but the trade-off in performance may be worth it for some drivers. Overall, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Sport Design AWD offers a compelling combination of power, handling, and all-weather capability, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of drivers.

Interior and Exterior Design

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 Sport Design AWD truly shines when it comes to design. Mazda has always been known for its Kodo design language, which emphasizes sleek lines and a sense of motion, even when the car is standing still. The Sport Design trim enhances this aesthetic with unique exterior elements, such as gloss black accents on the grille, mirrors, and wheels, giving it a more aggressive and sporty look. The LED headlights and taillights add a touch of sophistication, while the overall silhouette is both elegant and athletic.

Stepping inside, you'll find a cabin that punches above its weight class. The interior is crafted with high-quality materials and attention to detail, creating a premium feel. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives a pleasure. The Sport Design trim includes unique interior accents, such as red stitching and aluminum trim, which add a touch of sportiness to the overall ambiance. The layout of the dashboard is clean and intuitive, with all the essential controls within easy reach. The infotainment screen is well-integrated and easy to use, and the available Bose sound system delivers excellent audio quality.

Practicality is also a key consideration, and the CX-5 offers a decent amount of cargo space for its size. The rear seats can be folded down to create a larger cargo area, making it easy to transport bulky items. However, some competitors offer slightly more cargo room, so it's worth considering if cargo space is a top priority. Overall, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Sport Design AWD stands out for its stylish exterior and well-appointed interior, making it a visually appealing and comfortable choice for drivers and passengers alike. The attention to detail and premium materials elevate the overall experience, setting it apart from many of its rivals.

Technology and Features

In terms of technology, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Sport Design AWD is well-equipped with a range of features designed to enhance convenience, safety, and entertainment. The infotainment system is centered around a 10.25-inch display, which can be controlled via a rotary dial on the center console or through voice commands. The system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing seamless integration with your smartphone. Navigation is also available, providing turn-by-turn directions and real-time traffic updates.

On the safety front, the CX-5 comes standard with a suite of advanced driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. These features work together to help prevent accidents and keep you safe on the road. The blind-spot monitoring system is particularly useful, alerting you to vehicles in your blind spots. The CX-5 has also earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, providing added peace of mind.

Other notable features include a power liftgate, which makes it easy to load and unload cargo, and a sunroof, which adds an open and airy feel to the cabin. The available head-up display projects important information onto the windshield, allowing you to keep your eyes on the road. The 360-degree camera system provides a bird's-eye view of the vehicle, making it easier to park in tight spaces. Overall, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Sport Design AWD offers a comprehensive set of technology and features that enhance the driving experience and provide added safety and convenience. These features, combined with its stylish design and engaging performance, make it a well-rounded and appealing choice in the compact SUV segment.

Reliability and Maintenance

When considering a new vehicle, reliability and maintenance are crucial factors. The 2022 Mazda CX-5 Sport Design AWD generally enjoys a good reputation for reliability. Mazda has consistently ranked well in various reliability surveys, indicating that their vehicles tend to be dependable and less prone to mechanical issues. This can translate to lower ownership costs and fewer headaches down the road.

Maintenance is another important aspect to consider. The CX-5 requires regular maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements, to keep it running smoothly. Mazda's maintenance schedule is fairly straightforward, and the costs are generally in line with other vehicles in its class. It's always a good idea to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Additionally, consider purchasing a maintenance plan or extended warranty to protect against unexpected repair costs.

While the CX-5 is generally reliable, it's not immune to potential issues. Some owners have reported problems with the infotainment system or certain electronic components. However, these issues are not widespread, and Mazda typically addresses them promptly under warranty. Overall, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Sport Design AWD is a reliable vehicle with reasonable maintenance costs. By following the recommended maintenance schedule and addressing any issues promptly, you can expect to enjoy many years of trouble-free driving.

Trim Levels and Options

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offers a variety of trim levels, each with its own unique set of features and options. The Sport Design trim, in particular, stands out for its sporty appearance and well-appointed interior. However, it's worth exploring the other trims to see which one best fits your needs and budget. The base Sport trim is a great value, offering a solid set of standard features at an affordable price. The Touring trim adds more comfort and convenience features, such as leatherette seats and a power liftgate. The Grand Touring trim takes it up a notch with leather seats, a Bose sound system, and a sunroof.

The Carbon Edition is another stylish option, featuring unique Polymetal Gray paint and red leather seats. The Grand Touring Reserve trim offers the turbocharged engine as standard, along with heated rear seats and a head-up display. Finally, the Signature trim represents the pinnacle of luxury, with premium Nappa leather seats, wood trim, and a 360-degree camera system. Each trim level offers a range of options and packages, allowing you to customize your CX-5 to your exact specifications. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly daily driver or a luxurious and well-equipped SUV, there's a CX-5 trim that's right for you.

When choosing a trim level, consider your priorities and budget. If you value sporty styling and a well-appointed interior, the Sport Design trim is an excellent choice. If you need the added power of the turbocharged engine, the Grand Touring Reserve or Signature trims are worth considering. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to visit a Mazda dealer and test drive a few different trims to see which one you like best.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced perspective, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Sport Design AWD.

Pros:

• Stylish Design: The CX-5 stands out with its sleek and sporty exterior, as well as its well-appointed interior.
• Engaging Handling: The CX-5 is more fun to drive than many of its competitors, thanks to its precise steering and well-tuned suspension.
• Available Turbo Engine: The optional turbocharged engine provides brisk acceleration and confident passing ability.
• Standard AWD: The all-wheel-drive system enhances traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions.
• Comprehensive Safety Features: The CX-5 comes standard with a suite of advanced driver-assistance features.

Cons:

• Limited Cargo Space: Some competitors offer slightly more cargo room.
• Base Engine Can Feel Underpowered: The standard engine may not be powerful enough for some drivers.
• Infotainment System Can Be Confusing: Some users may find the infotainment system to be less intuitive than those of some competitors.
• Rear Seat Legroom: Rear seat legroom is adequate, but not as generous as some of its competitors.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final verdict on the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Sport Design AWD? Overall, it's a compelling choice in the compact SUV segment. It offers a stylish design, engaging handling, and a range of features that enhance convenience, safety, and entertainment. The available turbocharged engine and standard all-wheel-drive system add to its appeal, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of drivers. While it may not be the most practical option in terms of cargo space, its strengths in other areas more than make up for it. If you're looking for a compact SUV that's both fun to drive and visually appealing, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Sport Design AWD is definitely worth considering. Just make sure to weigh the pros and cons and compare it to other vehicles in its class to make an informed decision. Happy driving, folks!