Fabian’s Take: 2021 Mazda CX-5 Signature AWD

It didn’t take me becoming a father to fall in love with hatchbacks. No, in fact I was 15 years old when the love affair began. I remember seeing a slightly lowered 4th-Gen Honda Civic hatchback with custom wheels cruise by my house. I remember looking at it and thinking, “I want to do that; I want to make my car look like that.” That was over 30 years ago, and I’m not kidding when I say that my love for them has only grown over time. I even started an aftermarket parts company because of it. (Another story for a different day.)

So when I got word that I’d get to drive the 2021 Mazda CX-5, there was no grumbling here. And sure, it’s technically an SUV. But when I look at it, I see the heart of a hatchback, albeit a beautifully designed and styled one.

A quick note on Mazda Design

Just about every auto manufacturer hopes to deliver styling that creates an emotional connection between their vehicle and a driver. But Mazda Design has put their entire lineup under the direction and scrutiny of the “Kodo Design”, elevating “less is more” to an art form. From the way light will bounce of the vehicle’s lines to specific paint colors (Machine Grey Metallic for this tester loan) that will help accentuate the level of craftsmanship of each vehicle, Mazda has firmly cemented their place among some of the most beautiful everyday automotive creations to date.

So goes the 2021 Mazda CX-5’s design…

While the 2021 Mazda CX-5 may not exhibit the same flowing lines and large sweeping details you might find on the Mazda 3 or the MX-5, the “Kodo Design” elegance is evident. The front fascia is the most prominent feature, outlined by a chrome accent on the lower portion, extending on each side to end directly under the headlight, as if to intentionally draw attention to the eyes and say, “look here”. Both front and rear LED lights have a consistent blade profile with the round focal point in the center, another element of consistency in design. Ever so slightly flared fenders, accented by scooped-door lines, sit above 19” allow wheels with a double-blade design. 

The CX-5 Signature’s interior gets no less treatment on design and elegance. The 2021 model year boasts its largest-ever 10.25-inch center display that sits boldly at the center of the dash. Apple Carplay and Android Auto come standard and look great on the new display. The infotainment system is controlled by a center knob with surrounding buttons, and a smaller knob for fine-tuned adjustments. Some may complain about the lack of a touchscreen. But I would argue that it’s an intentional move on Mazda’s part to keep from having a bunch of greasy fingerprints on such an elegant display. The cabin is roomy for all passengers and feels more spacious simply by the interior layout and design.

Elegance plus performance is always a good idea…

Our 2021 CX-5 Signature came equipped with a Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter turbo engine, mated to the 6-speed Skyactiv-drive transmission. This pairing delivered a very capable and fun 227 HP and 310 lb. ft. of torque. The 2021 CX-5 is technically a “compact crossover SUV” but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t carry some heft. However, the engine and incredibly smooth shifting never felt underpowered or limited in any way. 

The AWD additional probably added a significant amount of weight but it also felt very confident around the backcountry twists and turns around town. While not anything like hearing a true performance machine, the 2021 CX-5’s turbocharged 2.5-liter did hum nicely when pushed for more performance. I dare say even the growl was an elegant one. It truly delivers a sporty but refined feel that creates a nice balance between daily driver and country road sprinter. 

I mean, we are Dad Drivers by the way.

Summary

BASE PRICE: $25,270 for the CX-5 Sport
PRICE AS TESTED: $37,405 for the CX-5 Signature with AWD
ENGINE: Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter turbo
TRANSMISSION: Skyactiv-drive 6-speed sport
FUEL ECONOMY: 22 city / 27 highway, 24 combined mpg

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 Signature AWD is a very well-balanced car with heightened elegance, inside and out, that you might not expect from a Mazda…if you haven’t been paying attention that is. If you need utility with some sporty fun and nice touch of class, give the CX-5 some decent consideration and take a drive for yourself.

See you on the road,