If you're looking for a small SUV with sporty performance, premium quality, and class-leading features, you'll want to check out the 2025 Mazda CX-5 Signature AWD. Not only is the CX-5 stylish, but it also has the driving dynamics to go with it. While it remains rated among the best compact SUVs on the market, this all-wheel-drive crossover has better tech, improved comfort, and optimal fuel efficiency to compete in the segment.
In this complete breakdown of the 2025 Mazda CX-5 Signature AWD, we highlight handling, comfort, infotainment, and safety ratings to help you determine whether this compact crossover is for you, whether you're a city commuter, weekend road tripper, or family-focused driver.
Mazda's goal for 2025 was improvement. Instead of a major redesign, the CX-5 Signature AWD offers several significant refinements:
Mazda is still balancing luxury and mainstream, but the Signature AWD is just right for excellent comfort, capability, and a premium look and feel.
The upcoming 2025 CX-5 continues Mazda's "Kodo" design philosophy, which captures motion in beauty. Features on the front of the CX-5 include a clean but crisp grille with adaptive LED headlights, while the bodylines feature beautiful flowing lines that create a sculpted, muscular look for the SUV.
The CX-5 makes smaller SUVs like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4 feel premium while costing significantly less than luxury brands.
Mazda has always emphasized a connected driving experience; the 2025 model does not disappoint.
The Signature trim puts out 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque (with premium fuel), thanks to a 2.5-liter turbocharged Skyactiv-G engine. It has a 6-speed automatic transmission and Skyactiv All-Wheel Drive. Although it is a crossover, its dynamic handling was surprising for this segment.
Drivers will notice that even though the CX-5 AWD handling leans towards sporty, it doesn't compromise ride comfort.
The Signature trim sets a high bar for Mazda CX-5 interior comfort. From the materials used for seat support and noise isolation, the cabin truly impresses.
Thanks to additional insulation and acoustic glass, road noise is minimal, giving the CX-5 a whisper-quiet cabin that rivals entry-level luxury vehicles.
The 2025 CX-5 Signature AWD offers an upgraded infotainment system that’s more intuitive than previous versions.
While the rotary controller may not appeal to all, the system is responsive and less distracting than touchscreens when driving.
Though the CX-5 doesn’t offer the largest cargo capacity in the segment, it provides more than enough for daily use and weekend adventures.
The cabin also features multiple storage compartments, including large door pockets, a deep center console, and underfloor cargo space.
Efficiency improves slightly in the 2025 model, especially with mild hybrid assistance.
These figures are competitive for a turbocharged AWD SUV with sporty driving characteristics. The CX-5's fuel economy won't beat a hybrid RAV4, but it’s strong for a performance-oriented crossover.
Mazda’s i-Activsense suite will become even more robust in 2025, pushing the CX-5 safety rating into top-tier territory.
The 2025 CX-5 has earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, reinforcing its reputation for family-friendly safety.
| Feature/Model | Mazda CX-5 Signature AWD | Toyota RAV4 Limited AWD | Honda CR-V Touring AWD |
| Horsepower | 256 hp (with premium fuel) | 203 hp | 190 hp |
| Fuel Economy (Combined) | 26 mpg | 30 mpg (non-hybrid) | 30 mpg |
| Interior Quality | Premium (Nappa leather) | Good | Good |
| Infotainment System | 10.3" with Bose Audio | 10.5" with JBL | 9" with Bose (new) |
| Driving Dynamics | Sporty and refined | Comfortable but dull | Balanced and smooth |
| Price (est.) | ~$40,000 | ~$38,500 | ~$39,000 |
For those who prioritize driving enjoyment and interior comfort, the CX-5 remains a top choice. However, those seeking maximum cargo space or fuel economy might lean toward competitors like the CR-V or RAV4 hybrid models.
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 Signature AWD is the perfect mix of sporty and sophisticated. Its chic looks, upscale interior, and confident handling with CX-5 AWD grip allow for a refined driving experience that few compact SUVs can match.
Sure, it might not have the cargo space or fuel economy of some hybrid competitors. Still, the engaging drive, quality, features, and safety ratings are more than enough to justify it. More than this, the CX-5 Signature AWD is a vehicle that speaks to both your head and your heart, a tall order in the mainstream crossover market.
Suppose you're looking for a compact SUV that makes you feel like you're driving a luxury vehicle without the price tag. In that case, this Mazda CX-5 review 2025 emphatically concludes that the Signature AWD trim is worth a second (possibly a third) look.
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