Hey everyone, let's dive into a review of the 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT. This compact SUV has been a darling of the automotive world, but does it still hold up against the competition? I've spent some quality time with this model, so I can share my thoughts and insights. We'll cover everything from its design and performance to its tech features and overall value proposition. If you're in the market for a small SUV, you're in the right place! Get ready to find out if the 2018 CX-5 GT deserves a spot on your shortlist, guys.

Design and Aesthetics

First impressions matter, right? The 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT certainly makes a good one with its sleek, modern design. Mazda has always had a knack for creating visually appealing vehicles, and the CX-5 is no exception. The exterior design is all about clean lines, a sporty stance, and a premium feel. The front fascia features Mazda's signature grille, flanked by sharp LED headlights that give the SUV an assertive look. The overall silhouette is well-proportioned, with a flowing roofline that adds a touch of elegance. Mazda's designers clearly paid attention to detail, guys.

Inside, the CX-5 GT continues to impress with its upscale cabin. The materials used feel high-quality, and the design is both modern and functional. The dashboard is well-laid-out, with easy-to-reach controls and a user-friendly infotainment system. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives a breeze. The GT trim level includes features like leather upholstery, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and heated front seats, further enhancing the premium feel. The overall design is a great blend of style and practicality, making the CX-5 GT a pleasure to be in, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a weekend adventure. The interior space is well-utilized, providing ample room for both passengers and cargo. The build quality is top-notch, with everything feeling solid and well-put-together. Mazda has truly created a cabin that feels more like a luxury car than a mainstream SUV. You'll definitely appreciate the attention to detail when you spend time in this vehicle, and the fact that its design has aged so gracefully is definitely a win. Let’s face it, the exterior and interior design of the 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT were definitely ahead of its time. The attention to detail is amazing! This car is a real head-turner and a comfy space to be.

Performance and Driving Experience

Now, let's talk about what's under the hood and how the 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT performs on the road. The GT trim is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, which produces a healthy 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. While this isn't the most powerful engine in its class, it provides plenty of pep for everyday driving. Acceleration is brisk, and the CX-5 GT feels responsive in various driving conditions. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, which shifts smoothly and efficiently. Mazda's engineers have done an excellent job of tuning the transmission to deliver a balanced mix of performance and fuel economy. The CX-5 GT also boasts Mazda's signature driving dynamics. The steering is precise and responsive, providing excellent feedback to the driver. The suspension is well-tuned, striking a good balance between ride comfort and handling prowess. This SUV feels planted and confident on the road, with minimal body roll in corners.

One of the standout features of the CX-5 GT is its all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, which comes standard on this trim. The AWD system provides enhanced traction and stability, making the CX-5 GT well-suited for various weather conditions. Whether you're driving in the rain, snow, or on a winding road, the AWD system gives you the confidence to tackle any situation. The overall driving experience is engaging and enjoyable. The CX-5 GT feels agile and fun to drive, making it a great choice for those who appreciate a sporty driving experience. The combination of a responsive engine, precise steering, and a well-tuned suspension makes this SUV a joy to pilot. You'll find yourself looking for excuses to drive it, trust me. You can feel the driving excitement thanks to Mazda’s excellent engineering. This is definitely one of the best SUVs to drive in its class.

Technology and Features

Alright, let's get into the tech and features of the 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT. This SUV is packed with technology that enhances both the driving experience and passenger comfort. The infotainment system is a highlight, featuring a 7-inch touchscreen display, a rotary controller, and both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The system is user-friendly, with intuitive menus and responsive touch controls. The rotary controller makes it easy to navigate the system while driving, minimizing distractions. The infotainment system also includes a premium Bose sound system, which delivers high-quality audio throughout the cabin. Music lovers will appreciate the clear and immersive sound experience. The GT trim also includes a suite of advanced driver-assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.

These features enhance safety and make driving a breeze. Adaptive cruise control automatically adjusts the vehicle's speed to maintain a safe distance from the car in front, while lane-keeping assist helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane. Blind-spot monitoring alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots, and rear cross-traffic alert warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking space. These features give you peace of mind and make driving safer and more enjoyable. The CX-5 GT also offers convenient features like keyless entry, push-button start, and a power liftgate. These features add to the overall convenience and ease of use. The tech and features in the 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT are well-integrated and enhance the overall driving experience, guys. You're getting a lot of bang for your buck with all the technology available. From the user-friendly infotainment system to the advanced driver-assistance features, the CX-5 GT keeps you connected, safe, and entertained on the road. The sound quality is top-notch, and the convenience features make everyday life easier.

Safety Features

Safety is paramount, and the 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT doesn't disappoint. It earned top safety ratings from both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This SUV is designed to protect you and your passengers in various driving scenarios. As mentioned earlier, the GT trim includes a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. These features help prevent accidents and mitigate the severity of a collision. The CX-5 GT is also equipped with a robust set of passive safety features, including airbags, seatbelts, and a strong body structure. These features work together to protect occupants in the event of a crash. Mazda's commitment to safety is evident in the CX-5 GT's design and features. The SUV's high safety ratings and comprehensive safety features give you peace of mind, knowing that you and your passengers are well-protected on the road. The inclusion of advanced driver-assistance features and a strong body structure makes the CX-5 GT a safe and reliable choice for families and individuals alike. This is one of the safest SUVs in its class.

Value and Competition

Now, let's talk about the value proposition of the 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT and how it stacks up against its competitors. The CX-5 GT sits in a competitive segment, with rivals like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape. While the CX-5 GT might be slightly more expensive than some of its competitors, it offers a compelling combination of features, performance, and style that justifies its price. You are getting a lot for what you pay. The interior quality, driving dynamics, and tech features are generally better than those of its rivals. When you consider the overall package, the CX-5 GT offers excellent value. It's not just a practical SUV; it's a stylish and enjoyable vehicle that's fun to drive. The CX-5 GT offers a premium driving experience without the premium price tag. The competition is tough, but the CX-5 GT stands out from the crowd. Its sleek design, engaging driving experience, and well-appointed interior make it a top contender in the compact SUV segment. If you're looking for a vehicle that offers a great balance of practicality, style, and performance, the 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT is definitely worth considering. You'll get a great vehicle with a luxury feel at an affordable price, which is hard to beat! This is an excellent choice, guys!

Conclusion

So, is the 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT still a top SUV? Absolutely! It continues to impress with its stylish design, engaging driving experience, and well-appointed interior. The 2.5-liter engine provides adequate power, while the six-speed automatic transmission delivers smooth shifts. The GT trim is packed with tech and features, including a user-friendly infotainment system, advanced driver-assistance features, and a premium Bose sound system. The CX-5 GT also earns top safety ratings, giving you peace of mind on the road. While it might be slightly more expensive than some of its competitors, the CX-5 GT offers excellent value. If you're looking for a compact SUV that's both practical and enjoyable to drive, the 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT should be on your shortlist. It's a great all-around package that delivers a premium driving experience. From its stunning design to its exciting driving experience, the 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT is still a strong contender in the compact SUV market. I hope you enjoyed my review, guys. Thanks for reading and happy driving! If you are considering to buy a small SUV, you should go with the Mazda CX-5 GT. You won't regret it!