Mazda CX-5 2020 Touring: A Compact SUV Gem

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2020 Mazda CX-5 Touring, a ride that’s been turning heads and capturing hearts in the super competitive compact SUV segment. If you’re in the market for something that blends style, substance, and a dash of driving fun, you’ve come to the right place. Mazda has a knack for making cars that feel more premium than their price tag suggests, and the CX-5 is a prime example of that philosophy. We’re going to break down everything you need to know about this particular trim, from its exterior appeal to the nitty-gritty of its interior features, performance, and what it’s really like to live with day-to-day. Get ready to find out if the 2020 CX-5 Touring is the right fit for your garage.

Exterior Elegance and First Impressions

Let's start with the outside, because let's be honest, the Mazda CX-5 Touring looks fantastic. Mazda's Kodo design language is truly on display here, giving the CX-5 a sculpted, athletic stance that makes it stand out from the more bland designs you often see in this class. The Touring trim brings its own set of stylish upgrades that elevate its curb appeal. Think sleek lines, a signature grille that’s both bold and refined, and headlights that give it a determined, almost predatory gaze. The 2020 model year saw some subtle refinements, ensuring it aged gracefully. The Touring trim specifically comes with larger wheels, usually 19-inch alloys, which really fill out the wheel wells and contribute to that premium look. The LED lighting for both the headlights and taillights isn't just for show; it provides excellent illumination and adds a modern touch. When you look at the CX-5 Touring parked next to its rivals, it often feels like it belongs in a more expensive category. The paint quality is usually top-notch, with Mazda’s signature Soul Red Crystal Metallic being a perennial favorite, but even the other available colors possess a depth and gloss that’s impressive. The overall proportions are well-balanced, avoiding the boxy utilitarian look some SUVs can’t shake. It manages to be practical without sacrificing an ounce of style, a tricky balance that Mazda seems to have mastered. The chrome accents are tastefully applied, adding a touch of sophistication without being gaudy. Even the side profile tells a story of motion and dynamism, with flowing character lines that catch the light beautifully. This isn't just a car to get you from point A to point B; it’s a car you’ll want to be seen in.

Interior Comfort and Tech Savvy

Step inside the 2020 Mazda CX-5 Touring, and you’ll find an interior that continues the theme of upscale design and thoughtful execution. Mazda consistently punches above its weight class when it comes to cabin appointments, and the Touring trim is no exception. The materials used feel soft to the touch, with quality plastics, stitched leather accents on the dashboard and door panels, and comfortable seating. The seats themselves are ergonomically designed, providing excellent support for both short commutes and longer road trips. The driver’s seat often includes power adjustments and lumbar support, making it easy to find your perfect driving position. In terms of technology, the Touring trim is well-equipped. You get a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is responsive and user-friendly. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are included, which is a huge plus, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone for navigation, music, and calls. Bluetooth connectivity, multiple USB ports, and steering wheel-mounted audio controls are also part of the package. The climate control system is intuitive, and the overall layout of the dashboard is clean and uncluttered, focusing on the driver. While the screen size might not be the largest in the segment, its placement and ease of use more than make up for it. The Touring trim also typically includes features like dual-zone automatic climate control, ensuring both driver and front passenger can set their preferred temperatures independently. Keyless entry with push-button start adds to the convenience factor. The overall ambiance of the cabin is one of quiet refinement, with good sound insulation that minimizes road and wind noise, making for a more pleasant driving experience. You'll find plenty of thoughtful storage solutions too, like a decent-sized center console bin and door pockets. The rear seats offer ample legroom and headroom for the class, making it a comfortable place for passengers on longer journeys. The fold-flat rear seats enhance the practicality, allowing for easy cargo hauling when needed.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

Now, let's talk about what makes a Mazda a Mazda: the driving experience. The Mazda CX-5 Touring doesn't just look good; it drives exceptionally well. Under the hood, you'll typically find a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces a healthy 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission. While some competitors might offer more horsepower on paper, the CX-5's power delivery feels refined and more than adequate for most driving situations. Merging onto highways, overtaking slower vehicles, and navigating city traffic are all handled with confidence. What truly sets the CX-5 apart is its chassis and suspension tuning. Mazda engineers have a reputation for creating cars that feel engaging and connected to the road, and the CX-5 is a testament to that. The steering is precise and communicative, providing excellent feedback to the driver. The suspension strikes a brilliant balance between comfort and sportiness; it absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road effectively, providing a comfortable ride, yet it’s firm enough to keep body roll in check during spirited driving or cornering. This means you can enjoy twisty roads without feeling like the car is wallowing. Mazda's G-Vectoring Control Plus system further enhances this dynamic prowess by subtly adjusting engine torque to optimize load transfer, leading to smoother, more stable cornering. For those who live in areas with inclement weather, the CX-5 is also available with i-Activ all-wheel drive (AWD), which significantly improves traction and stability in rain, snow, or on slippery surfaces. The AWD system is sophisticated, sending power to the wheels that have the most grip when needed. Even with the AWD system, the fuel economy remains competitive, though obviously slightly lower than the front-wheel-drive (FWD) version. The engine is also relatively quiet when cruising, but it can produce a satisfying growl when you push it, adding to the overall engaging feel. Braking is strong and confidence-inspiring, with a pedal feel that’s progressive and easy to modulate. Overall, the CX-5 Touring offers a driving experience that feels more premium and engaging than many of its rivals, making it a joy to drive whether you’re on a mundane commute or a weekend adventure.

Safety Features and Peace of Mind

When you're looking at any vehicle, especially one that might carry your family, safety is paramount. The 2020 Mazda CX-5 Touring scores exceptionally well in safety ratings and comes equipped with a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) that provide peace of mind on the road. Standard on the Touring trim are features like a rearview camera, which is essential for safe reversing. But Mazda goes further, often including a good number of active safety features as standard or readily available. These typically include features such as Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA), which are incredibly useful for highway driving and parking lot maneuvers, respectively. BSM alerts you if a vehicle is in your blind spot, and RCTA warns you of approaching traffic when backing out of a parking space. The 2020 CX-5 also typically comes with Smart City Brake Support, which can automatically apply the brakes in certain low-speed frontal collision scenarios. Depending on specific packages or options, you might also find features like Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane-Keep Assist (LKA), which help keep the vehicle centered in its lane, and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), which can maintain a set distance from the car in front of you, reducing driver fatigue on longer journeys. The structural integrity of the CX-5 is also a strong point, contributing to its excellent performance in crash tests conducted by organizations like the IIHS and NHTSA. These safety systems work in concert to help prevent accidents or mitigate their severity, giving drivers more confidence behind the wheel. The inclusion of these technologies on a mainstream compact SUV like the CX-5 highlights Mazda's commitment to making advanced safety features accessible. Knowing that your vehicle is actively working to protect you and your passengers adds a significant layer of value, making the 2020 CX-5 Touring a very sensible choice for safety-conscious buyers.

Practicality and Everyday Usability

Beyond its stylish looks and engaging drive, the Mazda CX-5 Touring needs to be practical for everyday life. Thankfully, it delivers well in this regard. As a compact SUV, it offers a good balance of maneuverability for city driving and interior space for passengers and cargo. The exterior dimensions make it relatively easy to park and navigate through tight urban streets, which is a big plus for many drivers. Inside, the cabin provides a comfortable environment for both front and rear occupants. The rear seats offer respectable legroom and headroom, making it suitable for families or for carrying adult passengers. The ingress and egress are also quite easy, thanks to the well-designed door openings and seat height. When it comes to cargo, the CX-5 offers a practical amount of space. The cargo area behind the rear seats is sufficient for grocery runs, luggage for a weekend trip, or everyday essentials. With the rear seats folded down, the cargo capacity expands significantly, creating a flat load floor that can accommodate larger items like furniture or sporting equipment. The liftgate opens to a decent height, making it easy to load and unload. While it might not boast the absolute largest cargo volume in its class, the space is intelligently shaped and very usable. Small item storage is also well-handled, with cupholders, door bins, and a center console that provide places to stash your phone, keys, wallet, and other necessities. The fuel economy is also reasonably good for its class, especially for the 2.5-liter engine. While it’s not a hybrid, the numbers are competitive enough that it won’t break the bank at the pump for most users. The overall user experience is enhanced by features like the aforementioned Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which streamline connectivity and entertainment on the go. The intuitive controls and well-thought-out cabin layout also contribute to its ease of use. It's a vehicle that feels designed with the driver and passengers in mind, making daily tasks and longer journeys feel less like a chore and more like a pleasure. The combination of manageable exterior size, comfortable interior, versatile cargo space, and user-friendly technology makes the 2020 CX-5 Touring a highly practical choice for a wide range of lifestyles.

Conclusion: Is the 2020 CX-5 Touring Worth It?

So, after breaking it all down, where does the 2020 Mazda CX-5 Touring stand? In a nutshell, it’s a fantastic option for anyone seeking a compact SUV that doesn't compromise on style, driving dynamics, or interior refinement. Mazda has managed to create a vehicle that feels more premium and engaging than many of its competitors, often at a similar price point. The Kodo design language ensures it looks sleek and modern, turning heads wherever it goes. Inside, you'll find a comfortable and well-appointed cabin with quality materials and user-friendly technology like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The real magic, however, lies in its driving experience. The precise steering, balanced suspension, and responsive engine make it genuinely enjoyable to drive, a rare trait in this segment. Add to that a strong suite of standard safety features and good everyday practicality, and you have a truly well-rounded package. While it might not have the absolute largest cargo area or the most cutting-edge infotainment screen among its rivals, the overall balance and the feel of the vehicle elevate it significantly. If you prioritize driving pleasure, sophisticated design, and a premium-feeling interior without a luxury price tag, the 2020 Mazda CX-5 Touring is absolutely worth considering. It’s a gem in the compact SUV crown, offering a delightful blend of form and function that’s hard to beat. Guys, if you get a chance to test drive one, do it! You might be surprised at how much you like it.