Hey everyone, let's dive into a comprehensive 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport review! This compact SUV has been a darling of the automotive world, and for good reason. It blends sporty driving dynamics, a stylish design, and a comfortable interior. But, is the 2018 Sport trim still a worthy choice in today's crowded market? Let's find out! This review will cover everything you need to know, from performance and handling to interior comfort, tech features, and overall value. Whether you're considering buying a used CX-5 or simply curious about this popular SUV, you're in the right place. We'll explore what makes the CX-5 stand out, what its strengths and weaknesses are, and how it compares to its rivals. So, buckle up, and let's get started on this exciting ride!

Performance and Driving Experience

When we talk about the 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport's performance, it's clear that Mazda prioritized the driving experience. Unlike many of its competitors that focus solely on fuel efficiency and practicality, the CX-5 injects a dose of fun into the equation. The Sport trim, while being the base model, still benefits from Mazda's engineering prowess, particularly its focus on handling and responsiveness. The CX-5 Sport comes equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, which produces a respectable 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. While these numbers aren't mind-blowing, the engine feels peppy and responsive, especially in city driving and during everyday commutes. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly and smartly, always seeming to be in the right gear. One of the standout features of the CX-5 is its steering, which is precise and offers excellent feedback. The steering is nicely weighted, giving the driver a good sense of control and connection to the road. This makes the CX-5 feel more engaging and athletic than many other SUVs in its class.

Another significant aspect of the driving experience is the suspension. Mazda has tuned the suspension to strike a balance between ride comfort and handling prowess. The CX-5 handles bumps and imperfections in the road with relative ease, providing a comfortable ride for passengers. At the same time, the suspension is firm enough to minimize body roll and keep the car planted during cornering. This is where the CX-5 truly shines, offering a level of driving enjoyment that's rare in the compact SUV segment. The car feels confident and composed, even when pushed a bit. You can tell that Mazda’s engineers put a lot of effort into making the CX-5 fun to drive. The Sport trim is available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. The AWD system is particularly beneficial for those living in areas with inclement weather, providing extra grip and stability in slippery conditions. Regardless of whether you choose FWD or AWD, the CX-5 delivers a driving experience that’s a cut above the rest. The responsiveness of the engine, the precision of the steering, and the well-tuned suspension all contribute to making the 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport a joy to drive. So, if you're looking for a compact SUV that's not only practical but also fun, the CX-5 Sport is definitely worth a look.

Interior Comfort and Design

Let's talk about the interior of the 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport. The cabin is a pleasant place to be, offering a blend of functionality, comfort, and style. Mazda has clearly put effort into creating an interior that feels more upscale than its price tag suggests. One of the first things you'll notice is the quality of the materials used. While the Sport trim is the base model, the interior still feels well-built and refined. The dashboard and door panels are made of soft-touch materials, which contribute to a premium feel. The seats are supportive and comfortable, providing good bolstering to keep you in place during cornering. The cloth upholstery is of good quality and should hold up well over time. The front seats offer plenty of adjustment, making it easy to find a comfortable driving position. Rear passengers also get a decent amount of space, with enough legroom and headroom for adults. The rear seats can also recline slightly, adding to the overall comfort for passengers on longer journeys.

The design of the interior is clean and uncluttered. Mazda has opted for a minimalist approach, which gives the cabin a modern and sophisticated look. The dashboard layout is straightforward, with all controls within easy reach of the driver. The infotainment screen sits atop the dashboard, which is positioned perfectly for easy viewing. The climate control system is simple to use, with physical buttons and knobs for adjusting the temperature and fan speed. The CX-5 Sport also offers a good amount of storage space. There are various storage compartments throughout the cabin, including a center console bin, door pockets, and a glove compartment. The cargo area is also spacious, with a generous amount of room for luggage, groceries, or other items. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more cargo space, making the CX-5 a versatile vehicle for everyday use. Overall, the interior of the 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport is a strong point. It's well-designed, comfortable, and offers a premium feel that's often lacking in other SUVs in this class. The quality of materials, the comfortable seats, and the user-friendly layout all contribute to making the CX-5 a pleasant place to spend time.

Technology and Features

Now, let's explore the technology and features of the 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport. Even though it's the base trim, it still comes with a respectable list of features that enhance the driving experience and provide modern conveniences. One of the key features is the infotainment system, which includes a 7-inch touchscreen display. The system is easy to use and offers a user-friendly interface. It includes features like Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free phone calls and audio streaming. Also included is a USB port, allowing you to connect your smartphone and play music or charge your devices. The CX-5 Sport also comes standard with a rearview camera, which is a valuable safety feature, especially when parking or reversing. The camera provides a clear view of the area behind the car, helping to prevent accidents. The Sport trim also includes a basic audio system with six speakers, which delivers decent sound quality for everyday listening. However, if you're an audiophile, you might want to consider upgrading to a higher trim level for a more premium sound system.

On the safety front, the 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport is well-equipped. It comes with a suite of safety features, including anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and multiple airbags. It also includes advanced features like blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. This system monitors your blind spots and alerts you to the presence of vehicles in adjacent lanes. The rear cross-traffic alert warns you of any vehicles approaching from the side when you're backing out of a parking space or driveway. These safety features add an extra layer of protection, making the CX-5 a safe and reliable vehicle. While the Sport trim doesn't have all the advanced tech features available in higher trim levels, it still provides a solid package of essential features. The infotainment system, rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and safety features all contribute to making the CX-5 Sport a well-rounded vehicle. The technology offered is more than sufficient for the average driver, providing convenience, safety, and a connected driving experience. So, even in the base model, you're getting a good amount of tech for your money, making the CX-5 Sport a competitive option in its class.

Trim Levels and Pricing

Let's get into the trim levels and pricing of the 2018 Mazda CX-5. The 2018 CX-5 came in three main trim levels: Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring. As we've already discussed, the Sport trim is the base model, offering a great value proposition with its standard features. The Touring trim adds more features, such as heated front seats, leatherette upholstery, and advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control. The Grand Touring trim is the top-of-the-line model, featuring premium amenities like leather seats, a power liftgate, and upgraded audio system. When new, the price of the CX-5 Sport was very competitive within its segment. Being the entry-level trim, it offered an accessible entry point to the Mazda CX-5 experience without breaking the bank. The price made it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers who still wanted a well-built and stylish SUV.

The Touring trim was positioned as the mid-range option, offering a balance of features and value. It provided upgrades that enhanced comfort and convenience, making it a popular choice for many buyers. The Grand Touring trim, being the most expensive, provided the most luxurious experience. It included features that appealed to those seeking premium comfort and advanced technology. When considering the used car market, the prices of the 2018 Mazda CX-5 vary depending on the trim level, mileage, and condition of the vehicle. The Sport trim is generally the most affordable option, followed by the Touring and Grand Touring trims. It's essential to research the prices in your local area to get an idea of the current market value. Also, consider the specific features offered in each trim and determine which ones are most important to you. Whether you're considering the base Sport trim or a higher-end version, the 2018 Mazda CX-5 offers a compelling package. It is known for its excellent driving dynamics, stylish design, and overall value. The pricing reflects the level of features and the overall quality that the Mazda brand offers. So, when comparing options, it's wise to weigh the features against your budget to determine which trim best suits your needs.

Pros and Cons

Alright, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport. This will give you a clear, concise overview of what makes it great and where it might fall short. On the plus side, the CX-5 is lauded for its sporty driving dynamics. Its precise steering and well-tuned suspension make it a genuinely enjoyable SUV to drive. Its exterior design is another major strength. The CX-5 boasts a stylish and sophisticated design that stands out from the crowd. The interior is also a highlight. It offers a premium feel with high-quality materials and a well-designed layout. The CX-5 Sport is also known for its strong safety ratings. It provides peace of mind with a range of safety features and solid crash test results. Furthermore, the CX-5 offers excellent value for the money, especially considering its driving experience and interior quality.

However, there are also a few downsides to consider. The engine, while adequate, isn't the most powerful in its class. Some drivers might wish for more horsepower, especially when accelerating onto the highway or carrying a full load. Another potential drawback is the infotainment system, which, while functional, might not be as intuitive as some competitors' systems. Some users might find the screen a bit small. Also, the cargo space in the CX-5 is good, but it might not be the largest in its class. If you frequently haul large items, you might want to compare it to other SUVs in terms of cargo capacity. The 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport is generally well-regarded, with its strengths outweighing its weaknesses. Its strengths, such as its sporty driving experience, stylish design, and premium interior, make it a top contender in the compact SUV segment. The cons are relatively minor and shouldn't deter you from considering the CX-5 if you value driving enjoyment, style, and quality. Ultimately, the pros, such as the driving experience, the styling, and the interior, make the CX-5 an outstanding choice. And the cons, which are relatively minor, will not make a significant negative impact on the overall experience.

Conclusion: Is the 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport a Good Choice?

So, is the 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport still a good choice? The short answer is a resounding yes! Even though it's a few years old now, the 2018 CX-5 Sport continues to hold its own in a competitive market. It offers a unique blend of sporty handling, a stylish design, and a well-appointed interior that's hard to beat at its price point. If you value driving enjoyment, the CX-5 is a standout. The responsive steering and well-tuned suspension make it a joy to drive, more so than many other SUVs in its class. The interior is another strong selling point. The high-quality materials and the thoughtful design give it a premium feel, making it a comfortable and pleasant place to spend time. The technology and safety features, even in the base Sport trim, are more than adequate for most drivers. The infotainment system, rearview camera, and advanced safety features provide convenience and peace of mind. While the engine isn't the most powerful, it provides enough pep for everyday driving. The fuel economy is also respectable, making it a practical choice for daily commutes. The CX-5 Sport offers excellent value for the money. You get a lot of features and quality for the price, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.

Considering all these factors, the 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport is a well-rounded and compelling SUV. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a compact SUV that’s fun to drive, stylish, comfortable, and safe. The strengths of this vehicle clearly outweigh its weaknesses. It is a fantastic option in the used car market. The Mazda CX-5 Sport has aged gracefully, and it remains a strong competitor in its segment. So, if you're in the market for a compact SUV, give the 2018 Mazda CX-5 Sport a serious look. You won't be disappointed! It's a testament to Mazda's commitment to quality, driving enjoyment, and value, which continues to make the CX-5 a top choice for many drivers.