- the 2022 mazda cx-5 compact suv gets a handful of visual and mechanical changes.
- the cx-5's more elegant appearance is highlighted by updated front and rear ends with sleeker surfaces.
- mazda drops front-wheel-drive cx-5 models, making all-wheel drive standard.
adding to a resume that includes being mazda's best-selling model in the u.s. and earning multiple appearances on our annual 10best list, the 2022 cx-5 compact crossover receives a host of subtle, albeit meaningful, updates.
although it might be hard to notice without a side-by-side comparison with last year's model, the 2022 cx-5's already attractive bodywork is massaged to be more elegant. not only are its led headlights more distinctive, but its grille becomes more prominent thanks to wings that extend outwards toward the headlights and a new textured mesh. the lower front fascia now looks smoother, too, with the same type of streamlining appearing at the back of the suv along with redesigned led taillights. a new set of wheel designs are also part of the visual evolution.
the 2022 cx-5 lineup is largely unchanged, but the previous grand touring reserve trim is replaced by a new 2.5 turbo model, which references its 250-hp 2.5-liter turbo inline-four engine. the turbo slots between the grand touring and signature trims. it has gloss-black exterior bits as well as red accents and stitching inside. the signature also looks more upscale, as mazda has replaced the plastic cladding around the wheel wells with body-colored pieces. all models add new seats that are said to be more supportive, and there's now a wider selection of drive-mode settings. previously, a single sport mode was the lone performance adjustment.
it's also no longer possible to order a cx-5 with front-wheel drive. every version now comes standard with mazda's i-activ all-wheel-drive system. feeding all four of its wheels is either the 187-hp naturally aspirated 2.5-liter inline-four-cylinder base engine or the available turbocharged 2.5-liter four-pot. while both engines are unchanged and still pair with a six-speed automatic transmission, mazda says the gearbox is retuned to be more responsive. likewise, enhancements to the cx-5's suspension and a more rigid frame are said to improve its noise, vibration, and harshness (nvh) levels, which should provide a quieter cabin and a smoother ride.
mazda hasn't released pricing for the 2022 cx-5 lineup, but with the newly standard all-wheel-drive system, we expect the previously $1400 option to be baked into the cost. the 2021 cx-5 awd lineup currently ranges from the $27,945 sport model to the $38,680 signature, so expect 2022 models to cost slightly more than that when they reach dealerships this winter.