The 2017 Mazda CX-5 ranks 2 out of 18 Compact SUVs. The 2017 Mazda CX-5 ranks near the top of the compact SUV class for its outstanding performance, comfortable passenger space, high-quality interior, and laudable features.
Pros Fantastic performance Smooth ride Upscale cabin Roomy and comfortable seats
Cons Average engine power Low predicted reliability rating
The 2017 Mazda CX-5 has been fully redesigned. Though its dimensions haven't changed, it's smoother and quieter to drive. Other improvements include sharper styling, a more upscale cabin and some new features. Its engine and automatic transmission are largely carried over, though last year's manual transmission is no longer available.
Pros Keen handling and steering make the CX-5 enjoyable to drive Attractive and upscale cabin for a premium ownership experience Quieter on the highway than before
Cons Not as powerful as some rivals
The 2017 Mazda CX-5 takes a lot of small steps forward, but are any of them big enough changes to sway buyers? The 2017 Mazda CX-5 is new this year, and improves upon last year's model with a better interior and exterior look, quieter ride, a new-ish standard engine, and a coming turbodiesel that could be among the leaders for small crossovers in highway mileage. It's offered in Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring trims with varying levels of creature comforts.
Pros Best-looking compact crossover, by our eyes Improved interior Excellent driveability Fold-flat rear seats
Cons Not dramatically different than outgoing model Turbodiesel arriving later this year Finicky infotainment system Small-ish cargo area
Named after a famous winding pass in the Italian Alps, the Stelvio is perfect for carving up canyons. A turbo 2.0-liter four makes 280 hp and pairs with an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. For more power, the Quadrifoglio flaunts a 505-hp 2.9-liter turbo V-6; an adaptive suspension is standard. Alfa claims a zero-to-60 time of 3.9 seconds. Inside, the Stelvio offers an optional 900-watt Harman/Kardon audio system, but we’re pretty sure that sweet engine is all you’ll want to hear. Assembled at Alfa’s Cassino plant in Frosinone, Italy, the Stelvio is built on the same platform as the Giulia and will be offered in three trim levels: Stelvio, Stelvio Ti, and the high-performance Stelvio Quadrifoglio, which has enough distinct features and tuning to be considered a separate model. While the Stelvio and Stelvio Ti both rely on a 280-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four for motivation, the high-performance Quadrifoglio utilizes the 505-hp 2.9-liter turbocharged V-6 from the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio. Aluminum is used extensively in the construction of every Stelvio, including the front and rear subframes, the suspension components (control arms in front, multilink in the rear), the doors, and the fenders; the rear crossmember is partly made of composite plastics to pare more weight.
While the 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio offers an enjoyable experience at all trim levels, the Ti outfitted with the Sport package represents the best of what this SUV has to offer. The Ti provides a more premium experience, adding more attractive interior materials and heating for the front seats and steering wheel. The Sport package completes the experience with supportive seats, great-looking 20-inch wheels, satisfying shift paddles, and your choice of red, black or yellow brake calipers.
PROS Among the more fun-to-drive compact luxury crossovers available Powerful and exciting engine Distinctive styling and wheels help it stand out in the crown
CONS Odd brake pedal feel makes it hard to modulate easily Low tow capacity versus segment Somewhat snug back seat
The 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio ranked #7 in Luxury Compact SUVs. Currently the Alfa Romeo Stelvio has a score of 8.3 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 15 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Superb handling Powerful engine
Cons High base price Some lower-quality materials Below-average cargo space
