Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Maxx Sport SUV, a vehicle that's been making waves in the compact SUV market. If you're in the market for a new ride that blends style, practicality, and a bit of fun, then this review is just for you. We'll break down everything from its performance and handling to its interior features and overall value. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Overview of the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Maxx Sport SUV

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 Maxx Sport sits as a compelling option in the crowded compact SUV segment. It's renowned for its sophisticated design, engaging driving dynamics, and a premium feel that punches above its price point. The Maxx Sport variant, in particular, offers a sweet spot of features and affordability, making it an attractive choice for many buyers. Let's delve deeper into what makes this SUV stand out.

Exterior Design: The CX-5 boasts Mazda's signature Kodo design language, which translates to sleek lines, a bold front grille, and an overall athletic stance. The Maxx Sport trim carries these design elements well, presenting a stylish and modern appearance. The attention to detail in the exterior is evident, from the sculpted body panels to the tastefully designed alloy wheels. This SUV looks like it means business, whether it's navigating city streets or cruising down the highway.

Interior Comfort and Technology: Stepping inside, you'll find a cabin that feels more premium than its price suggests. The Maxx Sport trim offers comfortable seating, a well-laid-out dashboard, and intuitive controls. The infotainment system, while not the flashiest on the market, is user-friendly and integrates essential features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The materials used throughout the cabin feel good to the touch, contributing to an upscale ambiance. Practicality is also a key consideration, with ample storage spaces and a versatile cargo area. The interior of the CX-5 Maxx Sport is a pleasant place to be, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a weekend road trip.

Driving Experience: Where the CX-5 truly shines is in its driving dynamics. Mazda has a knack for making even their mainstream models feel engaging behind the wheel, and the CX-5 is no exception. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing a good sense of connection to the road. The suspension strikes a nice balance between comfort and control, absorbing bumps and potholes without sacrificing agility. The Maxx Sport is powered by a capable engine that delivers adequate performance for most driving situations. While it's not the quickest SUV in its class, it offers a smooth and responsive acceleration. Overall, the driving experience is one of the most compelling reasons to consider the CX-5 Maxx Sport.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance and handling, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Maxx Sport doesn't disappoint. The heart of this SUV is a 2.0-liter or 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, depending on the market. These engines are known for their smooth power delivery and respectable fuel efficiency. While it might not pin you to your seat, the CX-5 provides enough grunt for daily commutes and highway cruising. The six-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering smooth and timely shifts.

Engine Options: The base engine, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, produces around 115kW (155 horsepower) and 200Nm (148 lb-ft) of torque. This engine is adequate for city driving and offers decent fuel economy. However, for those seeking more power, the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is the way to go. It churns out approximately 140kW (187 horsepower) and 252Nm (185 lb-ft) of torque, providing a noticeable boost in acceleration and overall performance. Both engines are paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission.

Handling and Ride Quality: Mazda has always prioritized the driving experience, and the CX-5 is a testament to that philosophy. The steering is precise and communicative, allowing you to confidently navigate corners and winding roads. The suspension strikes a fine balance between comfort and control, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road while maintaining composure. The CX-5 feels planted and stable, inspiring confidence behind the wheel. Whether you're tackling your daily commute or embarking on a weekend adventure, the CX-5 delivers a rewarding driving experience.

Fuel Efficiency: Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for many buyers, and the CX-5 Maxx Sport performs admirably in this area. The 2.0-liter engine offers excellent fuel economy, typically achieving around 6.9L/100km (34 mpg) in combined driving. The 2.5-liter engine is slightly less fuel-efficient but still respectable, averaging around 7.4L/100km (32 mpg). These figures make the CX-5 a practical choice for those seeking a fuel-efficient SUV without sacrificing performance.

Interior Features and Technology

The interior of the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Maxx Sport is a testament to Mazda's commitment to quality and attention to detail. The cabin is well-appointed with comfortable seating, a user-friendly layout, and a range of features designed to enhance the driving experience. From the infotainment system to the safety technologies, the CX-5 offers a compelling blend of comfort, convenience, and connectivity.

Infotainment System: The centerpiece of the CX-5's interior is its infotainment system, which features a touchscreen display and a rotary commander knob. The system is intuitive and easy to navigate, allowing you to access essential features like navigation, audio controls, and smartphone integration. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, enabling seamless integration with your mobile devices. The system also supports voice commands, allowing you to control various functions without taking your hands off the wheel. The infotainment system in the CX-5 is not the most cutting-edge on the market, but it's user-friendly and provides all the essential features you need.

Comfort and Convenience: The CX-5 Maxx Sport offers a range of comfort and convenience features designed to make your driving experience more enjoyable. The seats are comfortable and supportive, providing ample cushioning for long journeys. The cabin is spacious enough to comfortably accommodate passengers and cargo. Automatic climate control ensures a pleasant temperature inside the cabin, while power windows and door locks add convenience. The CX-5 also offers a range of storage compartments, including a center console, door pockets, and a glove compartment, providing ample space for your belongings. Overall, the interior of the CX-5 is designed with comfort and convenience in mind.

Safety Features: Safety is a top priority for Mazda, and the CX-5 is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. These include features like antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags. Many models include advanced safety technologies such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. These features help to prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision. The CX-5 has earned excellent safety ratings from various organizations, making it a safe and reliable choice for families and individuals alike.

Pros and Cons

Like any vehicle, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Maxx Sport has its strengths and weaknesses. Let's break down the pros and cons to give you a balanced perspective.

Pros:

• Stylish Design: The CX-5's Kodo design language gives it a sleek and modern appearance that stands out in the crowded SUV market.
• Engaging Driving Dynamics: Mazda's focus on driving enjoyment shines through in the CX-5, with its precise steering and well-tuned suspension.
• Premium Interior: The cabin feels more upscale than its price suggests, with high-quality materials and a thoughtful layout.
• User-Friendly Technology: The infotainment system is intuitive and integrates essential features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Excellent Safety Ratings: The CX-5 has earned top marks in safety tests, providing peace of mind for drivers and passengers.

Cons:

• Engine Performance: While adequate for most situations, the base engine can feel a bit underpowered, especially when fully loaded.
• Infotainment System: While user-friendly, the infotainment system lacks some of the advanced features and flashy graphics found in competitors.
• Cargo Space: The cargo area is smaller than some rivals, which may be a concern for those who frequently haul large items.
• Rear Seat Space: Rear seat legroom is adequate but not as generous as some competitors, which may be a consideration for families with taller children or adults.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final word on the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Maxx Sport SUV? Overall, it's a compelling choice in the compact SUV segment. It offers a stylish design, engaging driving dynamics, a premium interior, and a range of features that make it a pleasure to drive and own. While it has a few minor drawbacks, such as the engine performance and cargo space, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.

If you're looking for an SUV that's fun to drive, comfortable, and stylish, the CX-5 Maxx Sport is definitely worth considering. It's a well-rounded package that offers excellent value for money. Whether you're a young professional, a small family, or an empty-nester, the CX-5 has something to offer. So, go ahead and take one for a test drive – you might just fall in love!

In conclusion, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Maxx Sport SUV stands out as a top contender in its class. Its blend of style, performance, and practicality makes it a winner in our book. Happy driving, folks!