Mazda Announces 2022 CX-5 Pricing And We're Pleasantly Surprised

Dec. 01, 2021 4:09 AM ET by Jay Traugott Pricing / 1 Comment

Standard AWD doesn't have to come at a huge price.

Mazda unveiled its updated 2022 CX-5 crossover a couple of months ago but one key piece of information was lacking: pricing. Today, that blank has been filled in. The 2022 Mazda CX-5 will carry a starting MSRP of $25,900, excluding the $1,225 destination fee ($27,125 all-in). Okay, sure, that's $530 more than last year but the refreshed compact crossover now comes standard with all-wheel drive across the board.

To compare, the cheapest 2021 CX-5 AWD began at $26,770 without destination. We don't know about any of you, but that's what we call a bargain. The entire 2022 CX-5 trim lineup has been reset.

Mazda

Instead of the Sport entry-level model, there's now the 2.5 S with available option packages called Select ($27,900), Preferred ($29,160), Premium ($29,310), and Premium Plus ($33,950). There's also the Carbon Edition ($30,280), the only trim available with Polymetal Gray exterior paint, and the top-of-the-line Turbo Signature ($38,650).

Base power, once again, comes from a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine rated at 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, regardless of fuel grade. A six-speed automatic transmission with manual and sport modes directs power to all four wheels. The optional 2.5-liter turbo produces 256 hp, a six-horsepower increase over last year. Torque remains steady at 310 lb-ft.

Mazda

Compared to last year's prices, these latest CX-5 trims cost up to $500 less. The main exception is the Signature, which is about $1,000 more than before. Mazda North America CEO Jeff Guyton just confirmed the CX-5, the automaker's best-seller, will not be replaced by the new and more off-road-ready CX-50. Each of these compact crossovers appeals to different types of buyers. Plus, Mazda sees no reason to mess with success.

Looking even further ahead, the next-generation CX-5 is rumored to receive a new rear-wheel-drive-based platform and a straight-six engine that will likely be connected to a plug-in hybrid system. For now, the current CX-5 remains and Mazda has made it more attractive than ever in terms of styling, packaging, and pricing.