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
The 2018 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid ranked #8 in Compact SUVs. Currently the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has a score of 8.3 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 25 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Terrific mpg ratings Lots of cargo space Comfortable, spacious seats Lots of standard driver assistance features
Cons Uninspiring cabin materials Lower safety ratings than some rivals
The Hybrid can now be had in a new LE base trim level, further lowering its point of entry. The SE also gains 0.4 inch of ground clearance.
PROS Great fuel economy for a compact crossover Small price premium over standard RAV4 One of the biggest, more useful cargo areas of any compact crossover Advanced safety and driver aids come standard
CONS Real leather seating is not available Noticeable shudder when gas engine kicks in Less useful interior storage as well Interior more utilitarian in look and feel than those of competitors
Its angled headlamps and sharply creased bodywork give the RAV4 an assertive presence, but don’t be fooled—under the skin, it’s a practical, comfortable, and easygoing ute. A 176-hp 2.5-liter four and a six-speed automatic are standard with either front- or all-wheel drive. The all-wheel-drive hybrid returned 31 mpg in our testing. A 6.1-inch infotainment system is standard on LE, SE, and XLE trims; Limited models get a 7.0-inch unit. An all-new RAV4 hits showrooms before the end of 2018.
Pros Standard active-safety features, supremely practical, impressive towing ability.
Cons Subpar fuel economy, inferior infotainment, all-new model is imminent.
