While the interface has remained almost unchanged for a couple of years now, it’s still one that I find enjoyable to use, thanks to the rotary knob control layout. MZD Connect continues to be one of my most favorite infotainment systems to use. It looks menacing at night, and even much more gorgeous during the daytime. The Soul Red Crystal paint truly bring out the best lines and curves of the CX-5, and it’s a paint option that I highly recommend for anyone to select. At night, the LED tail lights display a very sharp and aggressive light design, mimicking the LED daytime running light pattern up front. The proportions are very reminiscent of the Maserati Levante, especially when seeing it from a three-quarter rear view, which speaks volumes on how Mazda manages to make cars seem a lot more expensive than they really are.

The meticulously designed grille that features a mesh pattern nicely blends in with the slim LED headlights with LED daytime running lights. With its long hood, cab-rearward design, the Mazda CX-5 look taut and planted onto the ground, even when standing still. The second generation of Mazda’s best selling SUV has taken an evolutionary approach when compared to its generation, and yet people won’t dismiss it as a facelift.

2018 mazda cx 5 review