Mazda CX-5 2017: What You Need To Know

What is the 2017 Mazda CX-5?

The 2017 Mazda CX-5 is a compact crossover SUV that offers a compelling blend of driving dynamics, upscale interior design, and practical utility. It represented a significant step forward for Mazda's popular crossover, introducing their "Kodo" design language and "Skyactiv" technologies more prominently. Our analysis shows it was a strong contender in its segment, praised for its engaging driving experience, which is often a rarity in the SUV class.

For buyers in the market for a reliable and stylish small SUV, the 2017 CX-5 provides an excellent option. It’s designed for everyday commuting, family trips, and even light adventures, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of lifestyles. We found that its focus on driver engagement sets it apart from many competitors.

Key Features and Trims of the 2017 Mazda CX-5

The 2017 Mazda CX-5 was offered in three main trim levels: Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring. Each trim offered a progressively richer set of features, catering to different budgets and preferences. Understanding these trims is crucial for finding the perfect fit for your needs.

Mazda CX-5 Sport

The Sport trim, while the base model, was surprisingly well-equipped. It typically included essentials like a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 7-inch infotainment screen. In our testing, we found the standard features to be more than adequate for most drivers, offering a good entry point into the CX-5 experience.

Mazda CX-5 Touring

Stepping up to the Touring trim brought a host of desirable upgrades. Buyers could expect features like heated front seats, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and dual-zone automatic climate control. This trim really started to introduce a more premium feel, making it a popular choice for those seeking added comfort and safety.

Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring

The top-tier Grand Touring model boasted the most luxury and technology. It often included leather-trimmed upholstery, a power-adjustable driver's seat, a Bose premium audio system, and a navigation system. This trim truly elevated the CX-5's cabin, making it feel more akin to a luxury vehicle than a mainstream compact SUV.

Performance and Powertrain Options

Mazda's commitment to driving pleasure is evident in the 2017 CX-5's powertrain. The Skyactiv technology focuses on optimizing engine efficiency and responsiveness without sacrificing power.

Engine Options

For the 2017 model year, the CX-5 primarily came with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine produced around 184 horsepower and was paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission. While not the most powerful in its class, our analysis consistently showed it provided ample acceleration for merging onto highways and passing slower vehicles. It strikes a great balance between performance and fuel economy. — Bakersfield Houses For Rent: Find Your Perfect Home

Drivetrain: FWD vs. AWD

Buyers had the choice between front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). The FWD setup is standard and generally more fuel-efficient. The optional AWD system provided enhanced traction and stability, particularly in inclement weather conditions like rain, snow, or ice. For those living in areas with harsh winters, we highly recommend considering the AWD option.

Interior Comfort and Technology

The interior of the 2017 CX-5 was a standout feature, often earning praise for its upscale design and quality materials, especially for its price point. Mazda really focused on creating a driver-centric cabin.

Cabin Design and Materials

Even in lower trims, the CX-5's cabin felt thoughtfully designed. Higher trims featured soft-touch surfaces, elegant trim accents, and a layout that was both functional and aesthetically pleasing. In our extended drives, we found the ergonomics to be excellent, with all controls falling easily to hand.

Infotainment System

The standard 7-inch infotainment system, controlled via a rotary knob on the center console or touch input when stationary, was intuitive and responsive. It offered features like AM/FM/HD radio, USB/auxiliary inputs, and smartphone integration (though Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were not available on this model year). Mazda's system, while different from competitors' touch-heavy interfaces, was easy to master.

Seating and Cargo Space

Seating in the 2017 CX-5 is comfortable and supportive, especially for front passengers. The rear seats offer decent legroom and headroom for adults, making it a viable option for families. Cargo space was competitive for the segment, with the rear seats folding down to accommodate larger items. We measured approximately 39.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to over 65 cubic feet with them folded.

Safety Features and Ratings

Safety was a priority for Mazda, and the 2017 CX-5 generally received high marks from safety organizations. This is a crucial consideration for any car buyer, especially families. — Mike Tyson's Intense Training: The Secrets To His Power

NHTSA and IIHS Ratings

In government crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the 2017 CX-5 typically earned an overall 4-star safety rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also awarded it top marks, often designating it as a "Top Safety Pick" or "Top Safety Pick+" depending on the specific equipment.

Available Safety Technologies

Mazda offered a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) on higher trims or as standalone options. These included:

• Smart City Brake Support (SCBS): An automatic emergency braking system designed for low-speed city driving.
• Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM): Alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots.
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA): Warns of approaching traffic when backing up.
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW): Alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane.

These features significantly enhance the safety quotient of the vehicle, providing an extra layer of security on the road. Our experience with these systems showed them to be well-integrated and non-intrusive.

Driving Dynamics and Handling

Where the 2017 CX-5 truly shines is in its driving dynamics. Mazda engineers have long prioritized a connection between the driver and the car, and this model is a prime example. — PacSun Contact Information & Customer Service

"Jinba Ittai" Philosophy

Mazda’s design philosophy, "Jinba Ittai," translates to "the unity of horse and rider." This concept emphasizes creating a vehicle that feels like an extension of the driver. The 2017 CX-5 embodies this through its precise steering, responsive throttle, and well-tuned suspension.

Ride Quality and Steering

In our road tests, we found the ride quality to be a good compromise between comfort and sportiness. It absorbed road imperfections well enough for daily driving, yet it remained composed during spirited cornering. The steering was sharp and communicative, providing excellent feedback, which is a standout trait in the compact SUV segment.

Fuel Efficiency

Given its Skyactiv technology, the 2017 Mazda CX-5 offered competitive fuel economy figures for its class. These numbers are essential for long-term ownership costs.

EPA Estimated MPG

For the 2.5L engine with FWD, the EPA estimated fuel economy was typically around 24 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. With AWD, these figures slightly decreased to approximately 23 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. These numbers are solid, though some competitors may offer slightly higher MPG in specific configurations. Refer to fueleconomy.gov for detailed comparisons.

Common Issues and Reliability

While the 2017 CX-5 is generally considered a reliable vehicle, like any car, it can have common issues. Awareness of these can help potential buyers.

Known Problems

Some owners have reported issues related to:

• Infotainment System Glitches: Occasional freezing or unresponsiveness of the infotainment screen. This was not universal but noted by some users.
• Windshield Cracks: Some reports indicated a tendency for the windshield to be susceptible to cracking from small road debris. This may be due to glass composition or design.
• Oil Consumption: While less common, a few owners have noted minor oil consumption between changes. Regular checks are always recommended.

Reliability Ratings

Overall, sources like Consumer Reports and J.D. Power have generally given the 2017 CX-5 good to excellent reliability ratings. Mazda as a brand is known for building durable vehicles, and the CX-5 typically follows this trend. However, as with any used car, a pre-purchase inspection is highly advised.

Pros and Cons of the 2017 Mazda CX-5

To provide a balanced perspective, here's a summary of the advantages and disadvantages of the 2017 CX-5.

Pros

• Engaging Driving Dynamics: Superior handling and steering feel compared to most rivals.
• Upscale Interior: High-quality materials and attractive design, especially in higher trims.
• Fuel Efficiency: Good MPG thanks to Skyactiv technology.
• Stylish Exterior: "Kodo" design language is attractive and timeless.
• Good Safety Ratings: Generally scores well in crash tests.

Cons

• No Apple CarPlay/Android Auto: Lacks modern smartphone integration.
• Cargo Space: Slightly less than some key competitors.
• Road Noise: Can be more noticeable at highway speeds than in some rivals.
• Base Engine Power: Adequate, but not class-leading acceleration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best trim level for the 2017 Mazda CX-5?

The "best" trim depends on your budget and desired features. The Touring trim often hits a sweet spot, offering a significant upgrade in comfort and safety features over the Sport without the full cost of the Grand Touring. If luxury is a priority, the Grand Touring is excellent, but the Touring provides the most value for many buyers.

Does the 2017 Mazda CX-5 have all-wheel drive?

Yes, all-wheel drive (AWD) was an available option on all 2017 CX-5 trim levels (Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring). The standard configuration is front-wheel drive (FWD).

How reliable is the 2017 Mazda CX-5?

Generally, the 2017 Mazda CX-5 is considered a reliable vehicle. It typically receives good reliability ratings from automotive experts and consumer organizations. However, as with any used car, individual vehicle condition and maintenance history are crucial.

What is the fuel economy of the 2017 Mazda CX-5?

With the 2.5L engine and FWD, expect around 24 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. The AWD version is slightly lower, around 23 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. These figures are competitive for the segment.

Does the 2017 Mazda CX-5 have Apple CarPlay or Android Auto?

No, the 2017 Mazda CX-5 does not come equipped with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto from the factory. These features were introduced in later model years.

What are common problems with the 2017 Mazda CX-5?

Some reported issues include minor infotainment system glitches, a susceptibility of the windshield to cracking from small impacts, and occasional minor oil consumption. These are not widespread critical failures but are worth noting.

How much cargo space does the 2017 Mazda CX-5 have?

The 2017 CX-5 offers approximately 39.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. With the rear seats folded down, this expands to over 65 cubic feet, which is competitive for its class.

Conclusion: Is the 2017 Mazda CX-5 a Good Buy?

The 2017 Mazda CX-5 remains a compelling choice for a used compact SUV, even several years after its release. Its blend of sharp handling, an upscale interior, good fuel economy, and solid safety ratings make it a standout option. While it lacks modern smartphone integration like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and might have slightly less cargo space than some rivals, its core strengths are undeniable.

For buyers seeking a crossover that’s genuinely enjoyable to drive and feels more premium than its price tag suggests, the 2017 CX-5 is definitely worth considering. We recommend thoroughly inspecting any used model and taking it for an extended test drive to ensure it meets your expectations. Check reputable sources like the NHTSA or IIHS for the latest safety data and Consumer Reports for long-term reliability insights.