Mazda CX-5

How it looks when you see on the street: It’s easy to get the tried-and-true CX-5, mixed up with its close sibling the CX-50, but a deeper look reveals a small SUV with it’s own separate flavors. The CX-5’ has a slimmer, stouter crossover body. It’s made in two gas engine variants and offer a hybrid variant, too. It’s soon due for a jazz up but still is beloved after a production run of close to a decade.

For the new model year, it adds tweaks to its available feature package, such as more video cam systems and wireless CarPlay. The USB-C outlets are now the going standard.

How it makes you feel when you get in: The CX-5 has a sophisticated interior design. Controls rely on a dial to dive into the 10.3 inch screen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto art standard. Heated rear seats options are a nice touch. Our tester had the 12-speaker Bose sound system and a moonroof that gave the interior a more open sensation.

How it drives: The CX-5 has two engine choices — a standard four cylinder engine that produces 187 horsepower and a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine. Both deliver nimble ride and handling. The Turbo model offers up 256-horsepower.

Space for people and things: It’s snugger than the CX50, which makes for a back seat with tighter quarters.

What you should compare it to: Mazda CX-50, Honda CRV, and the Volkswagen Tiguan

How much does it cost: The base model starts at about $30,000. The 2025 Turbo Meridian Edition we drove was priced at $42,670.