Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Mazda CX-5 2018 Sport to give you the lowdown on whether this compact SUV lives up to the hype. If you're in the market for a reliable, stylish, and fun-to-drive vehicle, you've probably got the CX-5 on your radar. Let’s break down everything you need to know, from performance and features to comfort and overall value. So, buckle up and let’s get started!

First Impressions: Exterior and Design

When you first lay eyes on the 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport, you'll immediately notice Mazda's signature Kodo design language. The sleek lines, bold front grille, and sculpted body give it a premium look that stands out in the crowded compact SUV segment. The Sport trim offers a stylish yet understated appearance, with standard features like 17-inch alloy wheels and LED headlights. The overall design exudes a sense of sophistication and dynamism, making it clear that this isn't just another run-of-the-mill SUV. The attention to detail in the exterior design is impressive, from the precise curves to the well-integrated lighting elements. Mazda has truly created a vehicle that looks as good as it performs, and the CX-5 Sport is a testament to their commitment to design excellence. Compared to its competitors, the CX-5 Sport manages to strike a balance between sporty and elegant, making it appealing to a wide range of buyers. The carefully crafted design not only enhances its visual appeal but also contributes to its aerodynamic efficiency, improving fuel economy and reducing wind noise. The availability of various exterior colors allows buyers to personalize their CX-5 Sport to match their individual style, further enhancing its appeal. The design elements seamlessly blend together, creating a cohesive and visually stunning vehicle that stands out on the road. Overall, the exterior design of the 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport is a major selling point, offering a premium and sophisticated look that belies its affordable price tag. Whether you're cruising through city streets or embarking on a weekend adventure, the CX-5 Sport is sure to turn heads and make a lasting impression.

Interior and Comfort: What to Expect Inside

Stepping inside the 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport, you'll find a well-designed cabin that prioritizes comfort and functionality. The seats are supportive and comfortable, making long drives a breeze. While the Sport trim is the base model, it still offers a decent array of features, including a 7-inch infotainment display, a rearview camera, and cloth upholstery. The layout is clean and intuitive, with controls that are easy to reach and use. The materials used are of good quality for the price point, giving the interior a more upscale feel than you might expect. The cabin is also surprisingly quiet, thanks to Mazda's efforts to reduce noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH). This makes for a more pleasant driving experience, especially on long trips. The rear seats offer ample legroom and headroom for adult passengers, making it a comfortable option for families. The cargo area is also reasonably sized, providing enough space for groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. Overall, the interior of the 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport is a comfortable and functional space that punches above its weight class. The attention to detail in the design and the quality of the materials used make it a pleasant place to spend time, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a road trip. The intuitive layout and easy-to-use controls further enhance the overall driving experience, making the CX-5 Sport a top contender in the compact SUV segment. The focus on comfort and functionality is evident in every aspect of the interior design, from the supportive seats to the ample storage space. The quiet cabin and smooth ride make it a relaxing environment for both driver and passengers, further enhancing its appeal. The interior of the 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport is a testament to Mazda's commitment to creating a vehicle that is both stylish and practical, offering a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience for all.

Performance and Handling: How Does It Drive?

Under the hood, the 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. While this may not sound like a lot, it provides ample power for most driving situations. The engine is paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission that delivers power to the front wheels. All-wheel drive is available as an option for those who need extra traction in inclement weather. The CX-5 Sport offers a refined and engaging driving experience, with precise steering and responsive handling. It feels planted and confident on the road, making it a joy to drive on winding roads. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and potholes, providing a comfortable ride. The engine is also surprisingly fuel-efficient, achieving an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. Overall, the performance and handling of the 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport are impressive for its class. It strikes a good balance between performance, comfort, and fuel efficiency, making it a well-rounded choice for daily driving. The engine provides adequate power for most situations, and the handling is sporty and engaging. The suspension is well-tuned, providing a comfortable ride without sacrificing handling prowess. The availability of all-wheel drive adds to its versatility, making it a capable performer in all weather conditions. The 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport is a joy to drive, offering a refined and engaging experience that sets it apart from its competitors. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a weekend adventure, the CX-5 Sport delivers a smooth and confident ride that will leave you impressed. The combination of performance, handling, and fuel efficiency makes it a standout choice in the compact SUV segment.

Technology and Features: What's Included?

The 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport comes standard with a decent array of technology features, including a 7-inch infotainment display, a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and two USB ports. The infotainment system is easy to use, with intuitive menus and responsive controls. While it doesn't offer Apple CarPlay or Android Auto in the base trim, these features are available on higher trims. The rearview camera provides a clear view of what's behind the vehicle, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces easier. The Bluetooth connectivity allows you to make hands-free phone calls and stream music from your smartphone. The two USB ports provide convenient charging options for your devices. While the Sport trim may not be as feature-rich as some of the higher trims, it still offers a good value for the price. The standard technology features provide a solid foundation for connectivity and convenience, making the driving experience more enjoyable. The infotainment system is user-friendly and responsive, and the rearview camera is a valuable safety feature. The Bluetooth connectivity and USB ports allow you to stay connected on the go, whether you're making phone calls or streaming music. The 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport offers a well-rounded package of technology features that enhance the overall driving experience. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of some of its competitors, it provides a solid foundation of connectivity and convenience that will satisfy most drivers. The focus on user-friendliness and practicality makes it a standout choice in the compact SUV segment.

Safety Features: Keeping You Protected

When it comes to safety, the 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport doesn't disappoint. It comes standard with a suite of safety features, including antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags. It also includes Mazda's Smart City Brake Support, which can automatically apply the brakes in certain low-speed situations to help prevent or mitigate collisions. The CX-5 has earned excellent crash test ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), further demonstrating its commitment to safety. Available safety features on higher trims include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. The 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport prioritizes safety, providing a comprehensive suite of standard features that help protect occupants in the event of a collision. The antilock brakes, stability control, and traction control work together to keep the vehicle stable and in control, even in challenging driving conditions. The Smart City Brake Support is a valuable feature that can help prevent or mitigate collisions in low-speed situations. The excellent crash test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS provide further reassurance of the CX-5's safety performance. The available safety features on higher trims add an extra layer of protection, helping to prevent accidents before they occur. The 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport is a safe and reliable choice for drivers who prioritize safety. The comprehensive suite of standard and available safety features provides peace of mind, knowing that you and your passengers are well-protected.

Pros and Cons: Quick Overview

To sum it up, here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport:

Pros:

• Stylish exterior design
• Comfortable and well-designed interior
• Engaging driving experience
• Good fuel efficiency
• Excellent safety ratings

Cons:

• Base trim lacks some advanced technology features
• Engine could use a bit more power for some drivers

Final Verdict: Is the 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport Worth It?

So, is the 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport worth it? Absolutely! It offers a compelling combination of style, comfort, performance, and safety at an affordable price. While the base trim may lack some of the advanced technology features found on higher trims, it still provides a great value for the money. If you're looking for a compact SUV that's fun to drive and looks great, the CX-5 Sport should definitely be on your list. Whether you're a daily commuter or a weekend adventurer, the CX-5 Sport is a versatile and capable vehicle that will exceed your expectations. The stylish exterior design, comfortable interior, engaging driving experience, and excellent safety ratings make it a standout choice in the crowded compact SUV segment. While the engine could use a bit more power for some drivers, it still provides adequate performance for most driving situations. The 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport is a well-rounded and reliable vehicle that offers a great value for the money. If you're in the market for a compact SUV, be sure to give the CX-5 Sport a test drive – you won't be disappointed!