The 2017 Mazda CX-5 2WD 2.5L 4-cyl gets 27 MPG combined. This is a reasonable fuel economy for a compact SUV that is fun to drive without sacrificing too much fuel efficiency. It’s a typical number for the segment, not the best and not the worst. This CX-5 is for drivers who want a responsive engine and good handling more than the highest MPG figures, and who find the fuel consumption an acceptable trade-off for the driving experience.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2017 CX-5 2WD are 24 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. The city MPG reflects typical stop-and-go driving, where the engine idles and accelerates more. The highway MPG represents consistent cruising speeds, where the engine runs more efficiently. These numbers suggest the CX-5 works for both commutes and road trips. The automatic transmission’s six gears helps the engine run near its best at different speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Mazda CX-5 2WD 2.5L 4-cyl is $1,600 per year. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs can change based on your driving, fuel type, and local fuel prices. Stop-and-go traffic, fast driving, and premium fuel can raise your fuel expenses, and careful driving and steady highway speeds can lower them. See all Mazda fuel economy data for more efficient vehicle options.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates are a good guide, but real-world fuel economy can be different. Many 2017 CX-5 2WD owners report similar numbers to the official ones, but set realistic expectations. Driving style, terrain, and weather all matter. Regular maintenance, like tire inflation and air filter replacement, can help keep fuel efficiency high. Remember that fast acceleration and hard braking greatly reduce fuel economy, especially in cities.

How it compares

The 2017 CX-5 2WD is in a competitive compact SUV group. The Toyota RAV4 LE gets an EPA-rated 23 MPG city and 30 MPG highway, close to the CX-5. The Honda CR-V LX gets an EPA-estimated 26 MPG city and 32 MPG highway, a bit better than the Mazda. The Nissan Rogue S, at 26 MPG city and 33 MPG highway, also beats the CX-5 in EPA estimates. Buyers of the Mazda want its better driving feel over the slightly better MPG of the Honda and Nissan. See the CX 5 MPG across all years to track its consistent efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2.5L engine in the 2017 CX-5 works well with a light touch. Avoid fast starts and keep a steady speed, mainly in cities. Look ahead in traffic and avoid braking if you can, since that wastes energy. Gentle starts and a smooth speed give you better MPG.

Tire pressure is important for fuel economy. Check and keep up the recommended tire pressure, usually on a sticker on the driver’s side door. Low tires raise rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and reducing gas mileage.

Use fewer accessories that draw power from the engine. Air conditioning uses a lot of power, especially at low speeds. Use the ventilation system instead of the A/C when you can, or only use climate control when needed.

Think about your route. Avoiding stop-and-go traffic and choosing routes with fewer lights can raise fuel economy. Plan your trips and choose the best route, even if it’s a little longer. Highway driving is usually better for MPG in the CX-5.

Reduce the vehicle’s weight by taking out extra things from the trunk and inside. More weight makes the engine work harder, which lowers fuel efficiency. Clean out your CX-5 and only carry what you need.