While its 26 MPG combined won’t win any fuel economy awards, it represents a reasonable trade-off for the 2022 Mazda CX-5 4WD with the 2.5L engine. This CX-5 isn’t aimed at drivers obsessed with fuel efficiency. Instead, it appeals to drivers who value a premium driving experience and confident all-weather traction in a compact SUV. They accept the CX-5’s fuel efficiency as part of the deal.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2022 Mazda CX-5 4WD 2.5L at 24 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. These numbers are useful for comparison, and it’s important to understand what they represent. The city cycle simulates stop-and-go driving with an average speed of 21.2 mph, while the highway cycle averages 48 mph and includes some periods of higher speeds. A driver who spends most of their time in gridlocked urban areas will likely see fuel economy below 24 MPG, whereas someone with a long, consistent highway commute might achieve figures closer to, or even slightly exceeding, 30 MPG. Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC+) system is standard on all CX-5 models and subtly adjusts engine torque in response to steering inputs, theoretically contributing to smoother handling and slightly improved efficiency. However, the real-world impact on fuel economy is likely to be minimal.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Mazda CX-5 4WD 2.5L is $1,700. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a standardized calculation designed to help consumers compare the running costs of different vehicles. Your actual fuel cost will vary depending on how much you drive, your driving style, and the price of gasoline in your area. Drivers who cover significantly more or fewer miles than 15,000 annually will see a proportional increase or decrease in their fuel expenditures. Regular unleaded fuel is sufficient, premium fuel is not required.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides standardized testing, real-world fuel economy can vary substantially. Factors like driving conditions, tire pressure, and even the use of accessories like air conditioning can impact your MPG. The CX-5’s i-ACTIV AWD system provides enhanced traction, and also adds weight and friction to the drivetrain, contributing to a slight reduction in fuel economy compared to a front-wheel-drive model. Owners who drive primarily in hilly or mountainous terrain should also anticipate lower MPG figures due to the increased demand on the engine. Aggressive acceleration and frequent hard braking will also diminish fuel efficiency. Conversely, adopting a smoother driving style and maintaining optimal tire inflation can help you get closer to the EPA estimates, or even slightly exceed them under ideal conditions. Always check CX 5 MPG across all years for more data.

How it compares

The 2022 CX-5’s fuel economy places it roughly in the middle of the pack for compact SUVs with all-wheel drive. A Toyota RAV4 AWD, for example, achieves an EPA-estimated 27 MPG combined, making it a slightly more efficient choice. The Honda CR-V AWD also boasts a slightly better 28 MPG combined. On the other hand, a Subaru Forester, known for its standard all-wheel drive system, typically sees around 28 MPG combined. The Mazda sacrifices some efficiency to deliver a more engaging driving experience with responsive steering and a well-tuned suspension. For buyers who prioritize these attributes over absolute fuel savings, the CX-5 is a fine option. This buyer is choosing this vehicle and accepting its fuel economy in return for the vehicle’s fun-to-drive nature and premium interior, even if an economical SUV like the Nissan Rogue achieves 30 MPG combined. Looking for more information? Check out all Mazda fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and braking are key to maximizing fuel economy in any vehicle, especially one with a conventional automatic transmission like the CX-5. Avoid stomping on the accelerator or slamming on the brakes unnecessarily, these actions force the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a smooth, consistent speed whenever possible.

Proper tire inflation is another simple yet effective way to improve fuel efficiency. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing MPG. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Even a few PSI difference can impact fuel economy.

Minimize idling time, especially during cold starts. Idling burns fuel without moving the vehicle, significantly reducing MPG. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine. The CX-5’s engine restarts quickly and smoothly, so there’s little downside to this practice.

Reduce aerodynamic drag by removing unnecessary items from the roof rack or cargo carrier. These accessories create additional wind resistance, forcing the engine to work harder to maintain speed. Leaving the roof rack empty can impact wind resistance. Items inside of the cab should also be stowed away to reduce weight.

Consider using cruise control on long highway drives to maintain a consistent speed and optimize fuel efficiency. Cruise control helps prevent unintentional acceleration and deceleration, which can waste fuel. Be mindful of road conditions and traffic flow, and disengage cruise control when necessary.