2017 Mazda CX 5 Grand Touring AWD
An Automotive Love Affair
By Joseph Mavilia
Overview:
This is the 2017 Mazda CX 5 Grand Touring AWD. Right off the bat I had a problem. I was traveling down the 210 Freeway toward Pasadena, CA when “BAM” the driver side rear tire blew out. I was surprised since that hadn’t ever happened in nearly 25 years of testing cars on and off the race track as well as on and off road. There was nothing unusual in road conditions so I could only conclude it was a tire failure.
Ok, so the tires were Toyo brand and I’m wondering if it were just a fluke or it had something to do with quality issues of the brand? Is there a tire expert out there to comment?
When I think of it, I have rarely had tire failures any time in my life with the exception of the early days when “Re-Caps” were in demand to save money. They did tend to fail often. But I have, when I could afford better tires, leaned to or preferred US brands like Good Year or Firestone. Bridgestone also has a good reputation.
Looking forward to your comments. Write me at joe@autolove.com.
General Information:
It is assembled in Hiroshima, Japan; Parts – US/Canadian 0%, Japan 90% Engine and transmission – Japan; Classification is Small SUV. Cars from Mazda: CX-3,CX-5, CX-9, Mazda 3, Mazda 5, Mazda 6, MX-5 Miata, MX-5 Miata RF.
Handling & Performance:
Mazda is always a quality ride in my experience. They simply are a quality player in the industry.
Styling:
Design styling is rather commonplace, but that is meant in the good sense of the word. I’ve never been a fan of Flashy rather than practical and thus clean and simple lines. Kind of the way I prefer the women in my life. You just can’t improve on what God made, if you get my drift.
Fit and Finish:
Very well assembled consistent with overall quality.
Cost:
Affordable and very competitive in class.
Conveniences and comfort:
Outstanding array of great safety features that are a MUST in today’s world.
Consumer Recommendations:
Mazda is a must-see product in class as it has always been super competitive.
Recognized Competition:
Mazda CX 5 $31,000, Mini Convertible $30,000 4-seater, Fiat 124 Spider $36,000 2-seater, Audi A3 $39,000 4-seater.
Good News:
n/a
Standard Equipment:
2.5 liter 4-cylinder 187 HP engine, ABS 4-Wheel Disc brakes, skyactive 6-speed sport mode auto trans, AWD system, 19” allow wheels, rain sensing wipers, heated power mirrors with turn lamps, LED headlights with auto on/of, LED Fog and daytime running lights, rear roof spoiler, 5-passenger seating, tilt and telescopic leather steering wheel with audio and cruise controls, power windows and locks, leather trimmed upholstery, 8-way power driver seat with Lumbar support, 6-way manual passenger seat, cruise control, electronic parking brake, keyless entry system with push button start / stop, LATCH child safety seat anchors, anti-theft engine immobilizer, tire pressure monitor, Electronic Brake force distribution and brake assist, stability control, traction control, front and rear stabilizer bars, power steering, roof mounted shark fin antenna, rear privacy glass, power moonroof, power open / close rear liftgate, dual zone air conditioning with rear vents, BOSE AM/FM/HD/SAT 10-speaker audio, Bluetooth / Aux Jack and 4 USB inputs, 7” color display with rear camera, front and rear center armrests, 40/20/40 split fold down rear seat, heated front seats, Navigation system, Hill launch assist, front, side and front and rear side air curtain airbags, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, smart city brake support, lane departure warning, and lane keep assist.
Gas Stats:
for more information.
23 City and 29 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $30,695.