Hey guys! Are you curious about the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Sport FWD? Well, you’ve come to the right place! This article dives deep into everything you need to know about this fantastic SUV. We'll cover its performance, features, and overall value to help you decide if it’s the right car for you. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Overview of the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Sport FWD

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 Sport FWD stands out as a well-rounded compact SUV that blends sporty driving dynamics with a premium feel. This model year refines what Mazda already does well, offering an engaging experience behind the wheel and a comfortable ride for passengers. The "Sport" trim is the base model, but don't let that fool you; it's packed with enough features to keep most drivers happy. The front-wheel-drive (FWD) configuration makes it an efficient choice for everyday commuting and city driving.

The CX-5 has consistently earned praise for its sleek design, both inside and out. The exterior showcases Mazda's signature Kodo design language, characterized by flowing lines and a distinctive front grille. Inside, the cabin is thoughtfully designed with high-quality materials, giving it an upscale ambiance that rivals some luxury brands. The 2021 model year also saw some subtle updates to the infotainment system, making it more user-friendly.

Under the hood, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Sport FWD typically features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, which delivers a good balance of power and fuel efficiency. The engine is paired with a smooth-shifting automatic transmission. While it's not the fastest SUV in its class, the CX-5 offers responsive acceleration and confident handling, making it fun to drive on winding roads. Safety is also a priority, with a suite of advanced safety features available, contributing to its excellent safety ratings. This combination of style, performance, and safety makes the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Sport FWD a compelling choice in the competitive compact SUV market.

Key Features and Specifications

Let’s break down the key features and specifications that make the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Sport FWD a compelling option. Understanding these details will give you a clear picture of what this vehicle offers.

Engine and Performance

Under the hood, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Sport FWD is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine delivers around 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. While it may not sound like a lot on paper, the engine provides ample power for daily driving. The responsiveness of the engine is what makes it stand out, offering quick acceleration and smooth operation.

The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, which is known for its smooth and precise shifts. The front-wheel-drive configuration helps improve fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for those who do a lot of city driving. Overall, the performance is well-balanced, providing a comfortable and engaging driving experience.

Interior and Technology

Inside the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Sport FWD, you’ll find a well-designed cabin with high-quality materials. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives more enjoyable. The infotainment system features a 7-inch display, which is controlled by a rotary knob on the center console. This system includes standard features like Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, and a four-speaker audio system.

Other notable interior features include cloth upholstery, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, and a 40/20/40-split folding rear seat. The rear seats can be easily folded down to create more cargo space, which is especially useful for hauling larger items. While it's the base trim, the "Sport" model still offers a comfortable and functional interior.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority in the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Sport FWD. It comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features help to prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision.

The CX-5 also includes standard features like anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a full set of airbags. These features work together to provide a high level of safety and peace of mind. The 2021 Mazda CX-5 has earned excellent safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), making it a safe and reliable choice.

Driving Experience

The driving experience of the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Sport FWD is one of its strongest selling points. Mazda has always prioritized driving dynamics, and the CX-5 is no exception. It offers a unique blend of comfort, agility, and responsiveness that sets it apart from other compact SUVs.

Handling and Ride Quality

The CX-5 handles remarkably well for an SUV. The steering is precise and provides good feedback, allowing you to confidently navigate winding roads. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. This balance of handling and ride quality makes it a joy to drive in various conditions.

The front-wheel-drive configuration provides good traction in most situations, though it may struggle in heavy snow or ice. For those who live in areas with harsh winter weather, the all-wheel-drive versions might be a better fit. However, for everyday driving, the FWD model offers plenty of grip and control.

Acceleration and Braking

The 2.5-liter engine delivers adequate acceleration for most driving situations. It’s not the fastest SUV in its class, but it provides enough power for merging onto the highway and passing other vehicles. The engine is responsive, and the transmission shifts smoothly, contributing to a pleasant driving experience.

The braking performance is also commendable. The brakes are strong and provide good pedal feel, allowing you to stop quickly and confidently. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) helps prevent wheel lockup during hard braking, further enhancing safety.

Overall Driving Impression

Overall, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Sport FWD offers a refined and engaging driving experience. It’s comfortable enough for long commutes, yet still fun to drive on the weekends. The combination of responsive handling, smooth ride quality, and adequate power makes it a standout in the compact SUV segment. Whether you’re navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the CX-5 provides a driving experience that is both enjoyable and confidence-inspiring.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced perspective, let’s take a look at the pros and cons of the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Sport FWD. Understanding these points will help you make an informed decision.

Pros

• Stylish Design: The CX-5 features Mazda's signature Kodo design, which gives it a sleek and sophisticated look. The exterior is eye-catching, and the interior is well-appointed with high-quality materials.
• Engaging Driving Dynamics: The CX-5 is known for its sporty handling and responsive performance. It offers a more engaging driving experience than many other compact SUVs.
• Standard Safety Features: The CX-5 comes standard with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
• Comfortable Interior: The interior is well-designed and comfortable, with supportive seats and user-friendly controls.
• Good Fuel Efficiency: The front-wheel-drive configuration helps improve fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for daily commuting.

Cons

• Base Model Features: While the "Sport" trim is well-equipped, some may find the base model features lacking compared to higher trims. Upgrading to a higher trim can add desirable features like a larger infotainment screen and premium audio system.
• Engine Power: While adequate, the 2.5-liter engine may not satisfy those looking for more power. The CX-5 is not the quickest SUV in its class.
• Infotainment System: The 7-inch infotainment screen in the base model is smaller than what some competitors offer. The rotary knob control system may take some getting used to.
• FWD Limitations: The front-wheel-drive configuration may not be ideal for those who live in areas with harsh winter weather. The all-wheel-drive versions provide better traction in snow and ice.

Final Verdict

So, what’s the final verdict on the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Sport FWD? Overall, it’s a fantastic compact SUV that offers a great balance of style, performance, and value. It’s perfect for those who want a vehicle that’s fun to drive, comfortable, and safe.

If you prioritize driving dynamics and appreciate a well-designed interior, the CX-5 is definitely worth considering. The standard safety features provide peace of mind, and the fuel-efficient engine makes it a practical choice for daily commuting. However, if you need more power or live in an area with harsh winter weather, you may want to consider upgrading to a higher trim or opting for the all-wheel-drive version.

Ultimately, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Sport FWD is a solid choice in the competitive compact SUV market. Its combination of style, performance, and value makes it a standout option that’s sure to impress. So, go ahead and take it for a test drive – you might just fall in love!