Hey guys! Today, we’re diving deep into the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Sport Design AWD. This isn't just another compact SUV; it's a statement. From its sleek design to its impressive performance, the CX-5 has always been a favorite, and the Sport Design trim takes it up a notch. So, buckle up as we explore everything this car has to offer, ensuring you get a comprehensive understanding of what makes it stand out in a crowded market.

Exterior Design: A Masterclass in Aesthetics

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 Sport Design AWD immediately catches your eye with its Kodo design philosophy. This isn't just marketing jargon; it translates to a vehicle that looks like it's in motion even when standing still. The Sport Design trim adds unique touches that enhance its visual appeal. The gloss black exterior accents replace the standard chrome, giving it a more aggressive and modern look. This includes the front grille, side mirrors, and lower body cladding. The dark finish contrasts beautifully with the available paint colors, creating a striking visual impact.

The 19-inch alloy wheels with a dark finish complement the overall design, adding to its sporty demeanor. The LED lighting, both front and rear, provides excellent visibility and adds a touch of sophistication. The adaptive front-lighting system is particularly noteworthy, adjusting the beam direction based on steering input and vehicle speed, enhancing safety and convenience. The power liftgate is another practical feature, making loading and unloading cargo a breeze. The attention to detail in the exterior design is evident, making the CX-5 Sport Design a standout in its class. Mazda has truly created a vehicle that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to drive.

The overall design is cohesive and refined, making it clear that Mazda prioritizes aesthetics. The CX-5 Sport Design doesn't just blend in; it makes a statement. Whether you're driving through city streets or parked in your driveway, the CX-5's design will continue to impress. The subtle yet impactful changes in the Sport Design trim elevate the vehicle's appearance, making it a top choice for those who value style as much as substance. It’s a testament to Mazda’s commitment to creating vehicles that are both beautiful and functional.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Sport Design AWD, you're greeted with a cabin that blends comfort with technology seamlessly. The Sport Design trim features leather seats with red stitching, adding a sporty yet luxurious touch. The seats are well-bolstered, providing ample support for long drives, and the driver's seat offers multiple power adjustments, ensuring a comfortable driving position for all. The cabin is spacious enough for both front and rear passengers, with adequate headroom and legroom for adults. The rear seats also recline, adding to the comfort for those in the back.

The infotainment system is anchored by a 10.25-inch center display, which is crisp and responsive. The Mazda Connect system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing seamless connectivity with your smartphone. The rotary dial controller on the center console makes navigating the system intuitive and easy, minimizing distractions while driving. The Bose premium audio system delivers excellent sound quality, enhancing the overall driving experience. The system is well-tuned to the car's acoustics, providing a clear and immersive sound experience.

Safety technology is also a highlight, with Mazda's i-Activsense suite of features. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. These features work together to provide a safer driving experience, helping to prevent accidents and reduce driver fatigue. The 360-degree view monitor is particularly useful for parking and maneuvering in tight spaces, providing a comprehensive view of the vehicle's surroundings. The head-up display projects important information onto the windshield, allowing you to keep your eyes on the road.

The interior design is thoughtful and well-executed, with high-quality materials used throughout. The layout is clean and uncluttered, with all controls within easy reach. The cabin is also remarkably quiet, thanks to Mazda's efforts to reduce noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH). This makes for a more relaxing and enjoyable driving experience. The combination of comfort, technology, and safety features makes the CX-5 Sport Design a standout in its class. Mazda has created an interior that is both functional and luxurious, providing a premium experience for both the driver and passengers.

Performance and Handling: The Thrill of the Drive

Under the hood, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Sport Design AWD boasts a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers a satisfying blend of power and efficiency. With 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, it provides ample acceleration for everyday driving. The engine is paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission, which offers quick and precise gear changes. The all-wheel-drive system provides added traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. The CX-5's performance is characterized by its responsiveness and agility, making it a joy to drive.

One of the standout features of the CX-5 is its handling. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing excellent feedback from the road. The suspension is tuned to strike a balance between comfort and control, absorbing bumps and potholes while maintaining composure in corners. The CX-5 feels planted and stable, inspiring confidence behind the wheel. The G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC+) system enhances stability by subtly adjusting engine torque in response to steering inputs, resulting in smoother and more predictable handling. This technology makes the CX-5 feel more nimble and responsive than many of its competitors.

The CX-5 also offers a Sport mode, which sharpens throttle response and alters the shift points of the transmission, providing a more engaging driving experience. While it's not a sports car, the CX-5 offers a level of driving enjoyment that is rare in the compact SUV segment. The engine is refined and quiet at cruising speeds, but it emits a pleasing growl when pushed. The brakes are strong and responsive, providing ample stopping power. The CX-5's performance is well-rounded, making it a great choice for those who value both practicality and driving pleasure.

Fuel economy is also respectable, with EPA ratings of 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. These numbers are competitive for the segment, making the CX-5 a practical choice for daily commuting and long road trips. The combination of performance, handling, and fuel economy makes the CX-5 Sport Design a compelling option for those seeking a versatile and enjoyable SUV. Mazda has engineered a vehicle that is both fun to drive and easy to live with, making it a standout in its class.

Trim Levels and Options

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offers a variety of trim levels to suit different needs and budgets. The Sport Design trim sits in the middle of the lineup, offering a compelling combination of features and value. Other notable trims include the base Sport, which offers a more affordable entry point, and the top-of-the-line Signature, which adds premium features such as Nappa leather upholstery and genuine wood trim. Each trim level offers a unique set of features and options, allowing buyers to customize their CX-5 to their specific preferences.

The Sport Design trim includes features such as leather seats with red stitching, gloss black exterior accents, and 19-inch alloy wheels. It also comes standard with the 10.25-inch center display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and the i-Activsense suite of safety features. Optional features include a premium paint color, a sunroof, and a Bose premium audio system. The Sport Design trim offers a good balance of style, comfort, and technology, making it a popular choice among buyers.

The base Sport trim offers essential features such as LED headlights, a 7-inch center display, and a suite of safety features. It's a great option for those on a budget who still want the quality and driving experience that Mazda is known for. The Touring trim adds features such as heated front seats, a power driver's seat, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The Carbon Edition stands out with its unique Polymetal Gray exterior paint and red leather interior. The Grand Touring trim adds features such as leather upholstery, a power liftgate, and a Bose premium audio system.

The top-of-the-line Signature trim offers the most luxurious experience, with Nappa leather upholstery, genuine wood trim, and a 360-degree view monitor. It also comes standard with the turbocharged engine, which delivers more power and torque. No matter which trim level you choose, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 offers a compelling combination of style, performance, and value. Mazda has created a lineup that caters to a wide range of tastes and budgets, making it a standout in the compact SUV segment.

Final Verdict: Is the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Sport Design AWD Right for You?

So, is the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Sport Design AWD the right choice for you? Well, if you're looking for a compact SUV that offers a blend of style, performance, and practicality, the answer is likely yes. The CX-5 stands out from the competition with its sleek design, refined interior, and engaging driving dynamics. The Sport Design trim adds unique touches that enhance its visual appeal, while the all-wheel-drive system provides added confidence in all weather conditions.

The CX-5 is not just a pretty face; it's also a practical and safe vehicle. The spacious cabin offers ample room for passengers and cargo, while the i-Activsense suite of safety features provides peace of mind. The infotainment system is user-friendly, and the available Bose premium audio system delivers excellent sound quality. The CX-5 is also fuel-efficient, making it a great choice for daily commuting and long road trips.

However, the CX-5 is not without its drawbacks. Some may find the engine to be underpowered, especially when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. The infotainment system, while user-friendly, may not be as feature-rich as some of its competitors. And while the CX-5 offers a comfortable ride, it may not be as plush as some of its rivals. But overall, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Sport Design AWD is a well-rounded and compelling choice in the compact SUV segment.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you value style, performance, and practicality, the CX-5 is definitely worth a look. But if you prioritize maximum power, advanced technology, or a plush ride, you may want to consider other options. Whatever your priorities, be sure to test drive the CX-5 and see for yourself what it has to offer. Mazda has created a vehicle that is sure to impress, and it may just be the perfect SUV for you. Safe driving, guys!