As automakers roll out next year’s models, we’re accustomed to reporting on price increases. Even in an ordinary year, inflation in the cost of parts means a slight bump in the cost of most cars. This year, supply chain challenges have meant inflation is a front-page story.
Still, Mazda has managed to give its CX-5 compact SUV a significant update for 2022 with only a modest price increase. It’s an impressive feat for Mazda’s best-selling model. The CX-5 currently sits third in our list of the Best Small SUVs. It’s known for premium materials at a reasonable price and is arguably the most fun-to-drive model in its class.
Prices go up by just $530 for the base model. At the highest trim level, the Turbo Signature, the price has actually dropped by $80.
All-Wheel Drive Now Standard
But the price increase is an illusion for many buyers. The 2021 CX-5 came in both front- and all-wheel-drive (AWD), with buyers charged an additional $1,400 for AWD models. This year, Mazda will build the CX-5 only with power going to all four wheels. Prices have gone up by less than the cost of the AWD upgrade.
Tweaks Inside and Out
Other changes for 2022 include small tweaks to the look. A new front fascia includes an updated mesh grille framed with sharper trim (Mazda calls it a “signature wing that extends outward from the front grille”) and narrower headlights with rectangular LEDs. A redesigned liftgate sits above larger tailpipes.
Inside, the seats are the news. Mazda says they’ve been reshaped to offer both greater stability and more road-trip comfort.
More Power for Turbo Models
The 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine of the base model is unchanged, still putting down 187 horsepower. But the optional turbocharged version gets a 6-horsepower boost, now making 256 – but only on premium fuel. On regular octane, it’s still good for the same 227 as last year.
Engineers have also retuned the 6-speed automatic transmission to provide more power early in acceleration, tightened the frame, and changed suspension damping to reduce road noise.
The 2022 CX-5 should reach dealerships “this winter,” Mazda says. Later in the year, it will get some competition in its own showroom. Mazda plans to bring out a similar, though more off-road-oriented CX-50 SUV as a 2023 model.
Pricing:
Mazda also requires a $1,225 destination fee in 49 states, or a $1,270 fee in Alaska.
| Model | i-Activ All-Wheel Drive |
| CX-5 2.5 S | $25,900 |
| CX-5 2.5 S Select | $27,900 |
| CX-5 2.5 S Preferred | $29,160 |
| CX-5 2.5 S Carbon Edition | $30,280 |
| CX-5 2.5 S Premium | $32,310 |
| CX-5 2.5 S Premium Plus | $33,950 |
| CX-5 2.5 Turbo | $36,400 |
| CX-5 2.5 Turbo Signature | $38,650 |
Class of 2022: All the New and Redesigned Cars, Trucks, and SUVs
