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2025 Mazda CX-5 Turbo Review: Timeless Design Meets Turbocharged Power

By Amit Kulkarni
4 min read
2025 Mazda CX-5 Turbo

Mazda's Bestselling SUV Stays Fresh With Turbo Power and Premium Comfort

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 Turbo continues to prove why it remains one of the most beloved compact crossovers in its segment. Despite its design roots tracing back to 2016, Mazda's timeless approach and subtle refinements keep the CX-5 feeling modern, sophisticated, and driver-focused, all at a competitive price point of around $39,000 for the Turbo Premium trim.

Key Highlights of the 2025 Mazda CX-5 Turbo

  • Engine: 2.5L turbocharged inline-four
  • Power: 256 hp / 320 lb-ft torque
  • Transmission: 6-speed automatic
  • Drivetrain: Standard all-wheel drive
  • 0–60 mph: ~5.9 seconds
  • Top Speed: 129 mph (electronically limited)
  • Fuel Economy: 22 mpg city / 27 mpg highway
  • Towing Capacity: 2,000 lbs
  • 2025 Mazda CX-5 Turbo Price: Around $39,000 (Turbo Premium trim)

Exterior Design: Elegant Evolution Over Revolution

Mazda's design philosophy, known for its clean and sculpted "Kodo" styling, shines once again in the 2025 CX-5 Turbo. The review unit's Blue Mica Pearl paint paired with gloss black 19-inch multi-spoke wheels and dark chrome accents delivers a sporty yet refined aesthetic. The front fascia remains sleek with redesigned LED headlight housings, integrated daytime running lights, and a tasteful blend of gloss black and dark chrome on the signature Mazda grille. The black fender trims complement the overall body color, giving the SUV a low-slung, athletic stance. Mazda opts for a minimalist silhouette, no unnecessary creases, folds, or exaggerated contours, a design choice that makes the CX-5's shape truly timeless.

Interior: Premium Comfort and Thoughtful Ergonomics

Inside, the CX-5 Turbo Premium offers a near-luxury experience that rivals more expensive competitors. The cabin features soft-touch materials, red contrast stitching, and silver trim detailing that add understated elegance. The 10.25-inch infotainment screen, controlled via Mazda's rotary direct drive control knob, supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While the screen isn't touch-responsive by default, touch controls activate during smartphone integration, a compromise that keeps fingerprints off the display while maintaining driver focus.

A Bose premium sound system, dual-zone climate control, heated and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel round out the comfort features. The rear seats offer surprising space for a compact SUV, complete with rear AC vents, fold-down armrest with built-in heated seat controls, and USB ports cleverly integrated into the armrest. Cargo capacity stands at 29 cubic feet, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat.

Performance: Engaging Driving Dynamics With Turbocharged Confidence

Under the hood, the 2025 CX-5 Turbo packs a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine producing 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. This setup allows a 0–60 mph sprint in approximately 5.9 seconds and a top speed of 129 mph, offering a balance of spirited acceleration and daily drivability. Despite the aging six-speed gearbox, the shifts are smooth and well-timed, enhancing Mazda's signature "Zoom-Zoom" driving engagement.

The CX-5's sport mode sharpens throttle response and transmission behavior, while its off-road mode provides additional grip on light trails. Steering remains one of Mazda's strongest suits, direct, responsive, and confidence-inspiring. Fuel efficiency is rated at 22 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, reasonable for its performance class.

Driving Experience: A Compact SUV That Still Feels Alive

On the road, the CX-5 Turbo's handling stands out as its biggest strength. The all-wheel-drive system and well-tuned suspension deliver excellent stability and minimal body roll, even in tight corners. Sound insulation and interior refinement make highway drives serene, while the subtle engine note enhanced through the Bose system adds an engaging layer to the drive. Visibility is excellent, aided by a head-up display and a high-resolution 360° camera system.

Verdict: A Decade-Old Design That Still Dominates

Nearly a decade into its life cycle, the Mazda CX-5 continues to outperform newer competitors like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue, and Ford Escape in terms of driving enjoyment, material quality, and design integrity. For around $39,000, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 Turbo Premium offers a rare blend of luxury, performance, and practicality, proving that good design and great engineering never go out of style.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 Turbo is proof that thoughtful design, driver engagement, and everyday practicality can coexist beautifully. While rivals chase trends with hybrid systems and aggressive styling, Mazda continues to refine what it does best, crafting vehicles that connect emotionally with the driver. For those seeking a compact SUV with real personality, premium refinement, and spirited performance, the CX-5 Turbo remains a benchmark worth test-driving.