The 2019 Infiniti QX50 is a beautiful package of technological innovations—in places visible and not visible.
Pros Beautiful, inside and out Good standard safety tech Remarkably advanced engine Good value in top trims Whisper-quiet interior
Cons Dual-screen infotainment system Option packages are walled off in some trim levels Getting top safety packages requires top trims Finicky throttle in early, pre-production models
The 2019 Infiniti QX50 ranked #9 in Luxury Compact SUVs. Currently the Infiniti QX50 has a score of 8.1 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 13 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Lots of cargo space Great gas mileage Spacious, supportive seats
Cons Uninspiring handling Disappointing infotainment system
Infiniti’s slinky QX50 is more than just a pretty face—its creased sheetmetal is hiding a revolutionary new powertrain. A quest for increased fuel efficiency led Infiniti to develop a first-of-its-kind variable-compression-ratio turbocharged engine, good for 268 hp and, by Infiniti's estimate, 30 to 31 mpg on the highway.
Pros Invisible and novel tech; spacious, refined, quiet, and comfortable.
Cons We anticipated better fuel economy; the usual CVT complaints.
The 2018 Mazda CX-5 ranked #2 in Compact SUVs. Currently the Mazda CX-5 has a score of 8.7 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 27 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Excellent handling Comfortable, supportive seats Upscale interior
Cons Cumbersome infotainment system Unimpressive cargo capacity
As long as cargo space isn’t your main reason for buying a compact crossover, the 2018 Mazda CX-5 is an excellent, fun-to-drive choice.
Pros Attractive styling inside and out Poised chassis, communicative steering Engine changes bode well for mpg Good value, especially considering high spec level Rear seats fold flat
Cons Frustrating infotainment setup Light cargo volume Short on refinement
The 2018 Mazda CX-5 largely carries over from the previous model year, when it was extensively redesigned. New for 2018 are such standard features as a leather-wrapped steering wheel and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Also new is cylinder-deactivation technology intended to improve fuel economy slightly. The 2.5-liter engine automatically shuts down the two outside cylinders at cruising speeds to maximize efficiency. Last year's Grand Select trim level has been discontinued for 2018.
PROS Keen handling and steering make the CX-5 enjoyable to drive Attractive and upscale cabin for a premium ownership experience Stays quiet at highway speeds
CONS Not as powerful as some rivals
