What's new for 2021? The CX-5 gets a much-needed new infotainment interface for 2021. Fashion and function rarely go hand-in-hand, and the CX-5 is no exception. It's still smaller than those top competitors, particularly in the cargo area, so if max utility and versatility are a priority, it may not be the best choice.

It also gets a new infortainment system for 2021, addressing one of this Mazda's few low points.

Certainly, its style, plush interior and driving manners count for a lot. Now, if the CX-5 can be credibly considered an alternative to luxury vehicles, it's safe to say that it also stands tall against non-luxury choices like the popular Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.

Then, when you're behind the wheel, the CX-5 impresses with engaging driving manners that we've routinely described as being indicative of a 'budget Porsche.' Its available turbocharged engine even has as much or more power as several similarly sized luxury crossovers. It all starts with its elegantly sporty styling and carries inside where its handsome design and plush materials are a clear step up from others at its price point. If you're looking for a compact luxury SUV but are iffy about the higher price tags and running costs (quite understandably), the 2021 Mazda CX-5 is a perfect alternative. The knob that controls it is big, ergonomically placed on the center console and, like BMW's iDrive controller, can rotate … The dashtop screen is larger and easier to see while running a redesigned and quicker user interface. Mazda's tech interface, which had been one of the CX-5 principal cons, is substantially more advanced and improved for 2021. Admittedly, these fancier touches are absent on lower trims, but the overall feel remains more premium and stylish than those of most competitors - especially something like the Toyota RAV4 that's going for more of a rugged vibe. The padded and stitched pleather on the doors and center console are a nicer touch, as is the subtle dark wood and alloy trim - especially the air vents that seem to jut out from within the dash. There's stitching on the dash, too, though it goes through rubbery stuff. Its top two trim levels, Grand Touring Reserve and Signature, have seats that are heated all around and ventilated up front, covered in high-quality leather with contrast French stitching. What's the CX-5 interior and in-car technology like? The CX-5 boasts a handsome, upscale design with materials to match, exuding a premium vibe that none of its direct competitors can match. Another addition for 2021 is the CX-5 Carbon Edition, pictured below, which adds black trim and wheels to an exclusive Polymetal Gray exterior, as well as a red leather interior. Many will still prefer a touchscreen interface, but this is no longer the potential deal breaker it once was. It's the same unit found in the smaller CX-30 that dramatically improves upon Mazda's previous interface with its large 10.25-inch display, better graphics and menu structure, and revised controls on the center console.

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