EPA Fuel Economy: 29 MPG Combined

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 2.5L 4-cyl Preferred Plus delivers solid fuel efficiency for a compact crossover SUV, earning an EPA-estimated combined rating of 29 miles per gallon. This rating reflects real-world driving across a mix of city streets and highway conditions, making it a practical choice for drivers seeking reasonable fuel economy without sacrificing the versatility and space that a crossover offers. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine strikes a balance between performance and efficiency, providing adequate power for daily commuting, family trips, and weekend adventures while keeping fuel consumption moderate.

For a vehicle in the compact crossover class, the Mazda CX-5’s 29 MPG combined rating positions it competitively in the segment. The CVT automatic transmission contributes to this efficiency by maintaining optimal engine RPMs across various driving speeds, reducing unnecessary fuel consumption. Whether you’re navigating city traffic or cruising on the interstate, this fuel economy rating helps keep your annual gas expenses manageable while providing the cargo space and comfort that modern SUV buyers expect.

City vs Highway Performance

The EPA ratings for the 2023 Mazda CX-5 Preferred Plus show a clear difference between city and highway driving. In city conditions, the vehicle achieves 26 MPG, which is typical for stop-and-go driving with frequent acceleration, braking, and idle time. This rating accounts for the extra fuel consumed during urban commutes where the engine works harder and runs less efficiently at variable speeds.

On the highway, efficiency improves significantly, with the CX-5 earning an estimated 33 MPG. Highway driving allows the engine to maintain steady RPMs at consistent speeds, reducing fuel consumption per mile. If your driving pattern skews toward highway miles—such as frequent long-distance trips or highway commuting—you can expect your real-world fuel economy to exceed the combined 29 MPG rating. Conversely, drivers who spend more time in city driving will likely see results closer to the 26 MPG city figure.

Annual Fuel Cost

Understanding your annual fuel expenditure helps with budgeting and cost comparisons. Using the EPA’s standard calculation of 15,000 miles driven annually and assuming a gasoline price of $3.50 per gallon, here’s the math for the 2023 Mazda CX-5 Preferred Plus:

Calculation: 15,000 miles ÷ 29 MPG combined = 517.24 gallons per year. 517.24 gallons × $3.50 per gallon = $1,810.34 annual fuel cost

This figure provides a baseline estimate for fuel expenses. Your actual costs will vary based on your local gas prices, driving habits, and the mix of city versus highway miles you accumulate. Drivers in regions with higher fuel prices or those who drive more aggressively may spend more, while highway-focused drivers could spend less by achieving the higher 33 MPG rating more frequently.

Real-World MPG Expectations

EPA estimates provide a standardized baseline, but real-world fuel economy depends on numerous factors. Most 2023 CX-5 Preferred Plus owners report fuel economy within 1-2 MPG of the EPA estimates, particularly when following normal driving patterns. However, several variables can influence your actual results.

Cold weather reduces efficiency as engines require more fuel during warm-up periods and tire pressure decreases with temperature. Aggressive acceleration and frequent braking consume more fuel than smooth, gradual driving. Carrying excess weight in the vehicle or using roof racks increases aerodynamic drag and reduces MPG. Tire pressure also matters—underinflated tires create more rolling resistance. To maximize efficiency, maintain proper tire pressure, avoid idling, accelerate smoothly, and remove unnecessary cargo from your vehicle. Regular maintenance, including clean air filters and proper engine tuning, also supports optimal fuel economy.

How It Compares

Comparing the 2023 Mazda CX-5 Preferred Plus to other compact crossovers provides useful context. The Honda CR-V, another popular option in this class, achieves approximately 28 MPG combined with its 1.5L turbocharged engine, making it slightly less efficient than the CX-5. The Toyota RAV4 with a 2.5L engine achieves around 28-29 MPG depending on drivetrain, placing it on par with the Mazda. The Subaru Crosstrek delivers approximately 26-27 MPG combined, making the CX-5 slightly more efficient. The 2023 CX-5’s 29 MPG combined rating holds up well against direct competitors, particularly when considering its spacious interior and engaging driving dynamics.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

• Maintain Proper Tire Pressure: Check tire pressure monthly and inflate to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI found on your driver’s door jamb. Underinflated tires can reduce MPG by up to 3 percent.
• Drive Smoothly: Avoid rapid acceleration and aggressive braking. Gradual speed changes reduce engine strain and fuel consumption significantly.
• Reduce Excess Weight: Remove roof racks, cargo carriers, and unnecessary items from your vehicle. Extra weight directly impacts fuel efficiency.
• Use Cruise Control on Highways: Maintaining a steady speed on the highway improves efficiency. Avoid driving over 60 MPH when possible, as wind resistance increases dramatically at higher speeds.
• Keep Up with Maintenance: Replace air filters, use recommended motor oil, and follow Mazda’s service schedule to ensure your engine runs efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does the CVT transmission affect the CX-5’s fuel economy?
A: Yes, positively. The CVT automatic transmission continuously adjusts engine RPMs to find the most efficient operating point, contributing to the 29 MPG combined rating and helping achieve the 33 MPG highway figure.

Q: Will using premium gasoline improve my fuel economy?
A: No. The 2023 Mazda CX-5 2.5L engine is designed for regular unleaded gasoline. Premium fuel offers no efficiency benefits and only increases fuel costs.

Q: How does all-wheel drive affect fuel economy on the CX-5?
A: All-wheel drive models typically achieve slightly lower fuel economy than front-wheel drive versions due to added weight and drivetrain complexity. The figures provided are for the standard configuration of this trim.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 Preferred Plus with its 2.5L four-cylinder engine and CVT transmission offers dependable fuel efficiency suitable for everyday driving. With a 29 MPG combined rating and an estimated annual fuel cost of approximately $1,810, it provides a practical balance of capability, comfort, and economy for compact crossover shoppers.