Did you know that the Mazda CX-5 has consistently ranked as one of the top compact SUVs in its class for the past several years? This impressive statistic underscores the enduring appeal and quality of Mazda’s popular crossover. As we delve into the details of the 2024 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Package, we’ll explore why this model continues to captivate drivers and critics alike.
Introduction
The 2024 Mazda CX-5: A Refined Compact SUV
The Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium represents a sweet spot in the CX-5 lineup, offering a blend of luxury features and performance at a competitive price point. This model year brings subtle refinements to an already winning formula, cementing the CX-5’s position as a leader in the compact SUV segment.
As we explore the various aspects of this vehicle, from its sleek exterior to its advanced safety features, we’ll see how Mazda has crafted a vehicle that appeals to a wide range of drivers. Whether you’re a young professional looking for a stylish daily driver or a family in need of a versatile and safe SUV, the CX-5 2.5 S Premium Package has something to offer.
Exterior Design
Sleek and Sporty Aesthetics
The 2024 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Package continues to showcase Mazda’s commitment to elegant design. The exterior of the CX-5 is a testament to the brand’s “Kodo” design philosophy, which emphasizes smooth, flowing lines and a sense of motion even when the vehicle is stationary.
At first glance, you’ll notice the CX-5’s bold front grille, flanked by sleek LED headlights that give the vehicle a distinctive and modern appearance. The sculpted hood flows seamlessly into the A-pillars, creating a dynamic profile that’s both athletic and refined.
The side profile of the CX-5 is equally impressive, with a gently sloping roofline that adds a touch of coupe-like sportiness without compromising interior space. The 19-inch alloy wheels, standard on the Premium Package, fill out the wheel wells nicely and contribute to the vehicle’s planted stance.
Signature Mazda Design Elements
Several design elements set the Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium apart from its competitors:
- LED Lighting: The Premium Package includes signature LED headlights and taillights, which not only enhance visibility but also add a premium touch to the vehicle’s appearance.
- Body-Colored Mirrors: Power-folding side mirrors are painted to match the body color, creating a cohesive look.
- Rear Roof Spoiler: A subtle roof spoiler adds a sporty flair to the rear of the vehicle.
- Dual Exhaust Outlets: Chrome-tipped dual exhaust outlets underscore the CX-5’s performance credentials.
These design elements work together to create a vehicle that looks more expensive than its price tag suggests, a hallmark of Mazda’s approach to automotive design.
Available Exterior Colors
The 2024 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Package is available in a range of sophisticated colors, each carefully chosen to complement the vehicle’s design:
- Soul Red Crystal Metallic
- Rhodium White Metallic
- Platinum Quartz Metallic
- Eternal Blue Mica
- Deep Crystal Blue Mica
- Jet Black Mica
- Machine Gray Metallic
Each color option brings out different aspects of the CX-5’s design, allowing owners to personalize their vehicle to their taste. The Soul Red Crystal Metallic, in particular, has become something of a signature color for Mazda, showcasing the depth and quality of their paint process.
Interior Comfort and Features
Premium Cabin Materials
Step inside the 2024 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Package, and you’re greeted by an interior that punches above its weight class. Mazda has long been praised for the quality of its interiors, and the CX-5 Premium Package continues this tradition.
The seats are upholstered in high-quality leather, available in black or parchment color options. Soft-touch materials cover most surfaces you’re likely to interact with, including the dashboard and door panels. Genuine wood trim accents add a touch of luxury and warmth to the cabin.
The attention to detail is evident throughout the interior. From the precisely stitched leather on the steering wheel to the brushed aluminum accents on the center console, every element feels carefully considered and well-executed.
Spacious and Ergonomic Design
The CX-5’s interior is designed with both comfort and functionality in mind. The driver-centric cockpit places all controls within easy reach, while the high seating position provides excellent visibility.
Key interior features of the Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium include:
- 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support
- 6-way power-adjustable front passenger seat
- Heated front seats with three temperature settings
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
- 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats for flexible cargo options
Rear passengers are treated to ample legroom and headroom, making the CX-5 comfortable for long trips. The rear seats also recline for added comfort.
Cargo space is generous for the class, with 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The wide rear hatch opening and low load floor make it easy to load and unload cargo.
Technology and Connectivity
The 2024 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Package comes well-equipped with modern technology features. At the center of the dash is a 10.25-inch infotainment display, which can be controlled via touch or the rotary controller on the center console.
Key technology features include:
- Mazda Connect infotainment system
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
- 10-speaker Bose premium audio system
- Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming
- Two front USB ports and two rear USB charging ports
- Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry System
The infotainment system is intuitive to use, with crisp graphics and responsive inputs. The Bose audio system provides excellent sound quality, making the CX-5 a great place to enjoy your favorite music or podcasts.
Performance and Handling
Powerful and Efficient 2.5L Engine
The heart of the 2024 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Package is its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant produces 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for most driving situations.
The engine features Mazda’s Skyactiv-G technology, which includes:
- High compression ratio for improved efficiency
- Direct fuel injection for precise fuel delivery
- Variable valve timing for optimized performance across the rev range
These technologies work together to provide a balance of power and efficiency that’s impressive for a non-turbocharged engine.
Smooth and Responsive Transmission
Paired with the 2.5-liter engine is a six-speed automatic transmission. While many competitors have moved to continuously variable transmissions (CVTs), Mazda has stuck with a traditional automatic for its more engaging driving dynamics.
The transmission in the Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium offers smooth shifts and responsive performance. It’s tuned to make the most of the engine’s power band, providing quick downshifts when needed for passing or merging onto highways.
For drivers who prefer more control, the transmission also offers a manual shift mode. Paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel allow for quick gear changes, adding to the CX-5’s sporty feel.
All-Wheel Drive System for Enhanced Traction
One of the standout features of the 2024 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Package is its standard all-wheel drive system. Mazda’s i-Activ AWD system is designed to provide confident handling in a variety of conditions.
Key features of the i-Activ AWD system include:
- Predictive technology that monitors road conditions and driver inputs
- Ability to send up to 50% of engine torque to the rear wheels when needed
- Seamless operation that doesn’t impact fuel efficiency significantly
This system not only enhances traction in inclement weather but also improves the CX-5’s handling on dry roads. It contributes to the vehicle’s reputation for engaging driving dynamics, a rarity in the compact SUV segment.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Comprehensive Safety Features
Safety is a top priority in the 2024 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Package, and it shows in the comprehensive list of standard safety features. The CX-5 has consistently received top safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Standard safety features include:
- Advanced front airbags, front side-impact airbags, and side curtain airbags
- Anti-lock Brake System with Electronic Brake Force Distribution
- Dynamic Stability Control and Traction Control System
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System
- Rearview camera with dynamic guidelines
These features work together to provide a high level of passive and active safety, giving drivers peace of mind on every journey.
Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems
The Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium also comes equipped with a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, which Mazda calls i-Activsense. These technologies are designed to alert the driver to potential hazards and, in some cases, take action to prevent or mitigate collisions.
Key i-Activsense features include:
- Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go
- Advanced Smart City Brake Support with Day and Night-time Pedestrian Detection
- Smart Brake Support with Collision Warning
- Lane Departure Warning System with Lane-Keep Assist
- Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
These systems use a combination of cameras and radar sensors to monitor the vehicle’s surroundings, providing an extra layer of safety beyond traditional features.
Fuel Efficiency and Range
Impressive Fuel Economy Ratings
Despite its all-wheel drive system and responsive performance, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Package delivers impressive fuel economy. According to EPA estimates, the CX-5 achieves:
- 24 mpg in the city
- 30 mpg on the highway
- 26 mpg combined
These figures are competitive within the compact SUV segment, especially considering the CX-5’s standard all-wheel drive. The Skyactiv-G engine technology plays a significant role in achieving this balance of performance and efficiency.
Large Fuel Tank Capacity
Complementing the CX-5’s efficient engine is a generously sized fuel tank. With a capacity of 15.3 gallons, the CX-5 offers an impressive range between fill-ups.
Based on the EPA’s combined fuel economy rating of 26 mpg, drivers can expect a theoretical range of nearly 400 miles on a single tank of gas. This long range makes the CX-5 an excellent choice for road trips or for drivers who prefer to minimize their stops at the gas station.
Pricing and Value
Competitive MSRP
The 2024 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Package offers a compelling value proposition in the compact SUV segment. With a starting MSRP of $33,900, it sits in the middle of the CX-5 lineup, offering a balance of premium features without the higher price tag of the top-tier trims.
When compared to similarly equipped competitors, the CX-5 Premium Package often comes out ahead in terms of standard features and overall refinement. Its pricing reflects Mazda’s strategy of offering near-luxury quality at mainstream prices.
Standard and Optional Features
The Premium Package comes well-equipped with a host of standard features that would be optional on many competitors. These include:
- Leather seating surfaces
- Power-adjustable front seats
- Bose 10-speaker audio system
- Power liftgate
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- LED headlights and fog lights
Optional features and accessories allow buyers to further customize their CX-5. These may include:
- Navigation system
- Rear parking sensors
- Wireless phone charger
- Roof rack and cross bars
- All-weather floor mats
The breadth of standard features means that many buyers will find the Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium meets their needs without requiring additional options, contributing to its strong value proposition.
Conclusion
As we’ve explored throughout this overview, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Package offers a compelling blend of style, performance, and value in the competitive compact SUV segment. Its refined exterior design, premium interior materials, and engaging driving dynamics set it apart from many of its rivals.
Key strengths of the CX-5 2.5 S Premium include:
- Elegant exterior design that stands out in a crowded segment
- High-quality interior materials and craftsmanship
- Responsive handling and standard all-wheel drive
- Comprehensive suite of safety features and driver-assistance technologies
- Competitive fuel economy and generous range
- Strong value proposition with numerous standard features
While it may not offer the most cargo space in its class or the highest horsepower figures, the CX-5 excels in delivering a well-rounded package that appeals to a wide range of buyers. Its blend of near-luxury refinement and mainstream pricing makes it an attractive option for those who appreciate the finer things but don’t want to stretch their budget to luxury-brand territory.
For drivers seeking a compact SUV that offers more than just utility, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Package deserves serious consideration. It proves that practicality and driving enjoyment can coexist, wrapped in a package that looks and feels more expensive than its price tag suggests. Whether you’re navigating city streets or embarking on a weekend getaway, the CX-5 Premium Package is ready to elevate your driving experience.
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