The CX-5 is improving with age as Mazda has announced a handful of updates to the 2020 model. Set to go on sale in the United States this fall, the 2020 CX-5 features additional equipment, improved comfort and an upgraded turbocharged engine. The entry-level CX-5 Sport starts at US$ 25,090 which makes it US$ 740 more expensive than its predecessor. That’s a significant jump, but buyers will find additional content including a suite of i-Activsense driver assistance systems.

Among the newly standard safety features are active cruise control with a stop and go function, advanced smart city brake support with pedestrian detection and automatic high-beam headlights. The model also has lane departure warning with lane-keep assist and smart brake support with collision warning. The upgrades don’t end there as the CX-5 Sport also gains automatic headlights, rain-sensing windshield wipers and changes to reduce noise, vibration and harshness. Rounding out the highlights are a new key fob and a 7-inch Mazda Connect infotainment system with a new cylinder deactivation display.


Power comes from a familiar 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 187 hp and 252 Nm of torque. It is connected to a six-speed automatic transmission, which can send power to an optional all-wheel drive system. The CX-5 Touring starts at US$ 26,730 and largely carries over. As a result, buyers will find an upgraded interior with heated front seats and leatherette upholstery with suede inserts. The model also has a dual-zone automatic climate control system, a six-way power driver’s seat and an advanced keyless entry system. Other niceties include auto-leveling headlights, rear privacy glass, rear USB charging ports and an infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility.

Moving up the trim latter is the CX-5 Grand Touring which retails for US$ 30,210. It features larger 19-inch aluminum wheels, a power liftgate and LED lighting units. Buyers will also find a power moonroof, an adaptive front lighting system and heated exterior mirrors. Interior changes are limited, but the model has new paddle shifters. Other highlights include a power passenger seat, leather upholstery and a 10-speaker Bose premium audio system.


The US$ 35,035 CX-5 Grand Touring Reserve gains a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine that now produces 250 hp and 433 Nm of torque when running on premium fuel. This means the model has 14 Nm of torque more than last year. Besides being more powerful, the mill has a new “Engine Harmonics Enhancer that tunes to the engine with a much more refined and powerful sound.” The model is also more efficient and gains an off-road traction assist function which sends power to wheels that are still on the ground while off-roading.

The crossover gains a new 8-inch infotainment system. Other highlights include a heads up display, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel. The CX-5 Signature sits at the top of the range and costs US$ 37,055. It largely carries over, but comes nicely equipped with Nappa leather seats, genuine wood trim and ambient LED interior lighting.


The crossover also has GPS navigation, traffic sign recognition technology and a three year subscription to SiriusXM traffic and travel link. Other highlights include an auto-dimming frameless rearview mirror, HomeLink and a steering wheel with unique stitching. Lastly, there’s a 360° view monitor, front / rear parking sensors and 19-inch wheels aluminum with a dark silver finish.