We were approaching corners in speeds reserved for a sedan, not something with this ride height. This simple adjustment (and some speed) had a way to almost make the car feel smaller-in a good way. Flipping the CX-5 into sport mode and moving the shifter to the manual setting allowed us to utilize the paddle shifters. Our whole time with the CX-5, we were smiling on the twisty roads of South Georgia. The CX-5, however, remains a shining light in the segment that often times trades practicality for pure fun. 'Crossover SUVs are a blast to drive,' said no one. As the design flows to the back there is a rear roof spoiler, LED taillights, and dual chrome-tipped exhaust. It also came with chrome accents at the bottom of the grill and from the A-pillar to the C-pillar underlining the side windows. This trim also had 19' Bright Alloy wheels, and lots of body-colored panels (rocker molding, wheel, arch, etc.) to give it a more upscale look. There are eight different trims to choose from with the Signature being the top. The front of the CX-5 has a bit of a 'floating hood' look as the wide and thin LED headlights separate it from the grill, black gloss on our Signature trim. The long hood, raked cockpit, wide(r) stance, sharp angles, and a high belt line flows from the top of the headlights all the way back to meet at the rear. The 2023 Mazda CX-5 retains that life-breathing shape that has made it so popular. In fact, Mazda says they try to 'breath life' into the car through design. This is Mazda's philosophy to create a connection between the driver and the car using visual cues. Mazda claims this paint highlights their Kodo design language. With the largest difference for 2023 being the introduction of Rhodium White, it was fitting that our $41,655 (as tested) top-end Signature AWD loaner had that paint.

2022 mazda cx 5 review