In a crowded compact SUV market, the 2020 Mazda CX-5 stands out by offering something rare: refined luxury, engaging performance, and everyday practicality — all at a price below most premium competitors. While rivals focus on cargo capacity or rugged looks, the CX-5 appeals to drivers who want a car-like driving experience, upscale design, and top-tier interior quality.
Released as part of the second-generation CX-5 lineup (introduced in 2017), the 2020 model brought notable refinements, a more powerful turbocharged engine on select trims, and Mazda’s continued focus on premium styling and engineering.
1. Trim Levels and Model Overview
The 2020 Mazda CX-5 was offered in five main trims in the U.S. and Canada:
| Trim (Canada/US) | Key Features |
|---|---|
| GX / Sport | 2.5L engine, 17” wheels, Mazda Connect, cloth seats |
| GS / Touring | Heated front seats, leather-wrapped steering, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto |
| Kuro Edition / Touring Preferred | Exclusive styling, power driver’s seat, upgraded audio (Canada only) |
| GT / Grand Touring | Leather seats, 19” alloys, Bose® audio, power liftgate |
| Signature | 2.5L Turbo, Nappa leather, wood trim, 360° camera, head-up display |
Mazda positioned the CX-5 as a premium alternative in the compact SUV segment, targeting buyers who might otherwise consider luxury brands like Acura, Lexus, or BMW.
2. Powertrain Options and Performance
The 2020 CX-5 offered two engines — both naturally aspirated and turbocharged variants of the 2.5L Skyactiv-G inline-4 — along with Mazda’s excellent i-Activ AWD system and a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Engine Options:
| Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Fuel Economy (L/100 km) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5L NA I4 | 187 hp @ 6,000 rpm | 186 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm | 9.3 city / 7.6 hwy (FWD) | Standard on GX, GS, GT |
| 2.5L Turbo I4 | 227 hp (regular) / 250 hp (premium) | 310–320 lb-ft | 10.8 city / 8.7 hwy (AWD) | Standard on Signature |
The turbocharged engine delivers excellent low-end torque, making passing, merging, and uphill climbs effortless. The naturally aspirated engine is smooth and efficient, ideal for most daily drivers.
Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC Plus) subtly adjusts engine torque and braking to enhance stability and handling — a system that gives the CX-5 some of the sharpest steering and balance in its class.
3. Ride Quality and Handling
Where most compact SUVs feel soft or disconnected from the road, the 2020 CX-5 delivers a sporty, composed driving experience. Its chassis feels rigid and well-tuned, with minimal body roll in corners. The suspension soaks up bumps without sacrificing handling, and the steering is light yet precise.
The CX-5 isn’t just good “for an SUV” — it’s genuinely fun to drive.
4. Interior Design and Features
Mazda went all-in on interior quality for the 2020 CX-5. Even the base trims feature a clean, upscale layout with intuitive controls and quality materials. Higher trims push the boundaries with Nappa leather, real wood trim, and metal accents rarely found outside of luxury brands.
Key Interior Features (Available by Trim):
- 7” to 8” Mazda Connect infotainment system
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (standard from GS/Touring)
- 10-speaker Bose® premium audio (GT/Grand Touring and above)
- Dual-zone climate control
- Heated front seats (standard), heated rear seats and ventilated seats (available)
- Power-adjustable driver and passenger seats
- Active Driving Display (heads-up display) on Signature trim
The cargo space measures 875 litres (30.9 cu ft) with seats up, and expands to 1,687 litres (59.6 cu ft) with the seats folded — slightly below competitors like the Honda CR-V but adequate for most families.
5. Safety and Driver Assistance
The 2020 CX-5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS when equipped with the right headlights and includes Mazda’s full i-Activsense safety suite as standard on most trims.
i-Activsense Features:
- Advanced Smart City Brake Support (forward collision warning with auto braking)
- Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist
- Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go
- High Beam Control
Upper trims also offer:
- 360° View Monitor
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Driver attention alert
6. Fuel Economy
The 2020 Mazda CX-5 is reasonably efficient for a compact SUV, especially considering its AWD availability and turbocharged power.
Natural Aspirated Engine (FWD):
- 9.3 L/100 km city
- 7.6 L/100 km highway
- 8.5 L/100 km combined
Turbocharged Engine (AWD):
- 10.8 L/100 km city
- 8.7 L/100 km highway
- 9.8 L/100 km combined
These figures are competitive with other AWD crossovers, while offering significantly better driving performance.
7. Reliability and Ownership Costs
Mazda has a strong reliability reputation, and the 2020 CX-5 continues that legacy. According to consumer surveys and automotive reliability ratings, the CX-5 had:
- Fewer reported issues than average in its class
- Low cost of ownership over a 5-year period
- Strong resale value compared to competitors like the Ford Escape or Hyundai Tucson
Mazda’s unlimited mileage warranty in Canada (3 years basic, 5 years powertrain) also adds peace of mind for buyers.
8. Pros and Cons Summary
Pros:
- Engaging driving dynamics
- Premium-quality interior
- Standard safety features
- Optional turbocharged engine
- Excellent build quality and design
Cons:
- Less cargo space than some rivals
- 6-speed transmission lacks the gear count of some competitors
- Infotainment system isn’t touchscreen-operated (until the 2021 update)
Conclusion: A Driver’s Compact SUV
The 2020 Mazda CX-5 isn’t trying to be everything for everyone. It’s for buyers who prioritize quality, road feel, and design over raw practicality. Whether you’re navigating city streets or enjoying a weekend road trip, the CX-5 makes every drive feel more connected.
If you’re cross-shopping options like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, or Volkswagen Tiguan, the 2020 CX-5 stands out with its refinement, performance, and craftsmanship. It remains one of the most balanced and rewarding compact SUVs you can buy — and an excellent choice for drivers who don’t want to compromise.
