Mazda’s best seller in the U.S., the CX-5 compact crossover utility vehicle, underwent a full redesign in 2017. This spirited CUV gets even more spry in 2019 with the availability of a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. A week-long CX-5 test drive showcased the hearty vitality of this turbocharged engine, which also is available in the CX-9 midsize CUV and the MAZDA6 sedan. The 2019 CX-5 now features G-Vectoring Control Plus. Standard on all trim levels (Sport, Touring, Grand Touring, Grand Touring Reserve, and Signature), new G-Vectoring Control Plus software provides better stability, especially important during emergency maneuvers.

The newest CX-5 engine, the SKYACTIV-G 2.5T 4-cylinder, provides 250 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 310 pounds-feet of torque at 2000 rpm with premium fuel. (Lower octane fuel dips the horsepower to 227 at 5000 rpm.) On the cargo front, the CX-5 provides 30.9 cubic feet of stow space with rear seat upright and 59.6 cubic feet with rear seat folded. CX-5 is offered in front wheel drive or i-ACTIV all wheel drive. The AWD CX-5 Signature with 2.5T engine and 6- speed sport mode automatic transmission collects estimated mpg of 22 city/27 highway and carries a MSRP of $36,890.