2024 Mazda CX-5 Review: Why get option 1b when 1a is sitting right there?

What exactly do you get with the number 0? Usually, by definition, nothing. But when it comes to Mazda’s pair of compact SUVs, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 isn’t as appealing as its newer sibling, the CX-50. Both have the same list of pros and cons, and both represent sportier and more premium takes on a segment that mostly consists of family-oriented or outdoor adventure entries. They’re even similar in size and offer the same engine choices. What the heck’s the difference, then?

Basically, the CX-50 was designed and engineered for the North American market versus the more globally minded CX-5. It therefore offers all the virtues of the CX-5, but is a smidge bigger, more refined and capable of going further off-road. We think it looks better, too. Oh, and it’s made in America versus the made-in-Japan CX-5. Why opt for the CX-5, then? Apart from a slightly lower price, we’re left scratching our heads. While we theoretically like it every bit as much as before the CX-50 came out, and still appreciate that it strikes a more emotional chord than the CR-Vs and RAV4s of the world, we just like the CX-50 more. Why go for option 1b when 1a is just sitting right there?

Every CX-5 now comes standard with touchscreen functionality, but only when using Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This is a significant functionality improvement, and one not shared with every Mazda. Other changes are minimal, starting with the disappearance of the base S trim — a popular move for automakers lately, shedding the low-hanging, questionably profitable fruit. This makes the CX-5 $2,600 more expensive to start after factoring the price increase on the S Select trim that's now the entry-level model. There are changes further up the trim order, too. The Carbon Turbo returns, recalling the Carbon Turbo Edition that hasn't been seen since the 2021 model year. Mazda rolls out new color combos for this trim, the 2024 Carbon Turbo offering a special Zircon Sand Metallic paint for $450 and a Terracotta leather interior mixed with black suede. As before, it slips in as the most accessible variant with the turbocharged 2.5-liter, below the current Turbo that's renamed Turbo Premium for 2024, and the top-tier Turbo