2014 Mazda CX-5: Used Car Buyer’s Guide
Overview
- Pros: sporty handling, good fuel economy, less expensive than rivals from Toyota and Honda
- Cons: firm ride quality, limited cargo space, base engine can feel sluggish
Introduced in 2013 as a fresh entrant into the compact crossover segment, the Mazda CX-5 quickly stood out due to its refreshing design and fun-to-drive personality. The 2014 model, while still early in its life cycle, brought about some key refinements. One of the most noteworthy changes for the 2014 year was the introduction of the more powerful 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G engine in the Touring and Grand Touring trims, addressing concerns about the previous year’s model being underpowered.
The 2014 Mazda CX-5 is available in three main trims: Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring. The Sport trim acts as the base model but still comes decently equipped. The Touring trim builds on the Sport’s features, adding more comfort and conveniences, while the Grand Touring caters to those desiring more luxury, boasting features like leather seats and an upgraded sound system.
Performance and Handling
Under the hood, the base 2014 Mazda CX-5 Sport is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that churns out 155 horsepower. However, the Touring and Grand Touring models benefit from the more powerful 2.5-liter four-cylinder, pushing out 184 horsepower. A major selling point of the CX-5 is its driving dynamics. Mazda’s ‘Zoom-Zoom’ philosophy shines through, providing a more engaging driving experience than many competitors. Its precise steering and well-balanced chassis are standout features in its segment.
For those considering towing or off-road utility, the CX-5 offers a maximum towing capacity of 2,000 pounds, adequate for small trailers or weekend getaways. While it isn’t a dedicated off-roader, the optional all-wheel-drive system provides added confidence in challenging conditions.
Interior
Slide into the 2014 CX-5, and you’re greeted by a well-laid-out interior that emphasizes user-friendliness. The quality of materials used is good for the segment, with soft-touch surfaces in key touchpoints. While the CX-5 offers seating for five, taller passengers might find the rear a tad bit cramped.
In terms of storage capacity, the CX-5 offers 34.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. Fold the rear seats down, and this expands to 65.4 cubic feet. While these numbers are about average for the compact class, some rivals in the segment do offer more space.
Tech and Safety
The tech package in the 2014 CX-5 is functional and easy to navigate. A 5.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system comes standard, though it doesn’t offer Apple CarPlay or Android Auto integration, as these features weren’t as prevalent in vehicles of this era.
From a safety standpoint, the 2014 Mazda CX-5 shines. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded it a four-star overall rating, while the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave it a “Good” score in all their major tests. Advanced driver-assistance systems like blind-spot monitoring and forward collision warning are available, but primarily on the upper trims.
Fuel Economy
The 2014 Mazda CX-5 is competitive in its segment when it comes to fuel efficiency. The 2.0-liter engine, when paired with the manual transmission, returns an EPA-estimated 26 mpg city and 35 mpg highway. The more powerful 2.5-liter engine drops these numbers slightly to an estimated 25 mpg city and 32 mpg highway.
Real-world feedback paints an even more positive picture. According to numerous owner reviews and reports, the 2.5-liter variant often achieves around 27 mpg in mixed driving conditions, with some drivers even reporting up to 34 mpg during exclusive highway trips. This performance can be attributed to Mazda’s SkyActiv technology, which has been praised for its efficiency in practical scenarios.
Which One to Buy
If you’re in the market for a 2014 Mazda CX-5, the Touring trim strikes a balance between affordability and features. With its 2.5-liter engine, it provides a more spirited driving experience compared to the base Sport model. For those looking for more luxury touches, the Grand Touring is the way to go.
Potential buyers should also be aware that some early models of the CX-5 faced complaints about brake wear and issues with the tire pressure monitoring system. As with any used vehicle purchase, it’s advisable to have the vehicle inspected by a trusted mechanic before finalizing the deal.
Photos courtesy of Mazda