2016 Mazda CX-5 Buyer's Guide: Sport vs Touring vs Grand Touring

The Driver's Compact SUV

The 2016 CX-5 represents the first generation at its peak—refined, reliable, and genuinely fun to drive. While competitors focused on maximizing cargo space and fuel economy, Mazda prioritized driving dynamics. The result is an SUV that handles more like a sports sedan.

The SKYACTIV technology delivers efficiency without complexity. No turbocharger, no CVT, no hybrid system—just a naturally aspirated engine and traditional 6-speed automatic. This simplicity translates to long-term reliability and lower maintenance costs.

Engine Options

2.0L SKYACTIV-G (155 hp)

Available only on Sport FWD. Adequate for city driving but struggles on highway merges and mountain grades. Fuel economy is barely better than the 2.5L. Not recommended—the power deficit isn't worth the minimal savings.

2.5L SKYACTIV-G (184 hp) - Recommended

Standard on Touring and Grand Touring, available on Sport AWD. Provides confident acceleration and enough power for highway passing. Paired with a responsive 6-speed automatic that holds gears when you want it to. This is the engine to get.

Trim Level Guide

Sport ($11,000-$14,000)

Base model with push-button start, 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and 17-inch wheels. Missing backup camera on base FWD (added with AWD). No blind spot monitoring. Cloth seats are durable. Consider only with AWD package for added features.

Touring ($13,000-$16,500)

The value champion. Adds blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, backup camera, BOSE 9-speaker audio, heated mirrors, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and cargo cover. This is where most buyers should focus.

Grand Touring ($15,000-$19,000)

Leather seats, power liftgate, adaptive headlights, navigation, and 19-inch wheels. The leather holds up well. Navigation is dated—most buyers use phone apps. Worth it if finding a well-maintained example at the right price.

Common Issues to Watch

LED Daytime Running Light Failure

The LED strip in the headlight housing can fail. Replacement requires the entire headlight assembly—expensive at $600-$1,000 per side. Check both DRL strips are functioning during inspection.

Infotainment Screen Delamination

The touchscreen can develop cracks or delamination in the coating. This is mostly cosmetic but annoying. Aftermarket screen protectors can prevent further damage.

Windshield Cracking

The windshield seems prone to cracking from rock chips. Not a design flaw but worth noting—budget for potential replacement.

What to Inspect

• LED DRL strips: Both should illuminate evenly with no dark spots.
• Touchscreen condition: Check for cracks, delamination, or dead spots.
• Transmission shifts: Should be smooth with no hunting or hesitation.
• Brake wear: Rotors can warp—check for pulsation during braking.
• Tire wear: Uneven wear indicates alignment or suspension issues.
• Service records: Regular oil changes at 5,000-7,500 miles indicate good care.

FWD vs AWD

Mazda's i-ACTIV AWD is intelligent and fuel-efficient, adding only about 1 MPG penalty. It can predict traction loss and engage proactively. For snow states, AWD is recommended. For Sun Belt buyers, FWD saves money on purchase and fuel.