The 2019 Mazda CX-5 4WD’s 26 MPG combined rating is a fine compromise for buyers who want driving enjoyment and all-weather confidence more than ultimate fuel savings. This isn’t a hybrid, and it doesn’t try to be. It’s a stylish, well-appointed compact SUV with a responsive engine and a genuinely engaging driving experience. The 26 MPG reflects this balance.

City and highway performance

The EPA rates the 2019 Mazda CX-5 4WD at 24 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. These figures help you understand its real-world suitability. The 24 MPG city rating suggests it will be reasonably efficient for urban commuters in stop-and-go traffic. The 30 MPG highway figure makes it a capable road trip vehicle. The all-wheel-drive system adds capability in bad weather, but it slightly reduces fuel economy compared to front-wheel-drive models. People who choose the AWD model understand this trade-off and value the added security more than a couple of extra miles per gallon.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Mazda CX-5 4WD at $1,700. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and national average fuel prices. This standardized number lets consumers compare running costs across different vehicles. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the specific blend of gasoline you use. Aggressive driving, prolonged idling, and using premium fuel (which is not required for this engine) will increase your annual fuel expenditure.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates are a useful benchmark, but real-world fuel economy can vary. Many factors influence your mileage, including driving style, terrain, weather, and tire pressure. Owners who regularly drive in hilly areas or often carry heavy loads might see figures closer to the lower end of the EPA range. Drivers who primarily cruise on the highway and use smooth acceleration could exceed the EPA’s 30 MPG highway estimate. Expect a range that fluctuates around the 26 MPG combined figure.

How it compares

The 2019 Mazda CX-5 4WD’s fuel economy is competitive in its class. A similarly equipped Toyota RAV4 AWD typically achieves closer to 28 MPG combined, making it slightly more efficient if you prioritize fuel savings. The Honda CR-V AWD is also generally rated around 27 MPG combined. The Mazda stands out with its more engaging driving and upscale interior. A comparable Subaru Forester, known for its standard all-wheel drive, usually lands in the same ballpark, with an EPA combined rating of around 26 MPG. The decision depends on what you value most: fuel efficiency, driving experience, interior quality, and overall value. See CX 5 MPG across all years for a broader perspective on the vehicle’s efficiency over its production run.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintain consistent tire pressure. The CX-5’s recommended tire pressure is typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Keeping your tires properly inflated reduces rolling resistance, which can significantly improve fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during seasonal temperature changes.

Anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary braking and acceleration. The CX-5’s responsive engine can be fun, but aggressive driving hurts fuel economy. By watching traffic lights and maintaining a steady pace, you can avoid sudden acceleration and hard braking, saving fuel.

Avoid prolonged idling. Modern engines are designed to operate efficiently, and prolonged idling wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, it’s more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine. This is more true in cold weather, as idling to warm up the engine consumes more fuel than restarting it.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve highway fuel economy. Setting it a few miles per hour below the speed limit can also help you avoid sudden speed changes and reduce wind resistance and boost your MPG on long drives. Disengage cruise control when encountering traffic or bad weather.

Keep your CX-5 well-maintained. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements, ensures that your engine runs at peak efficiency. A well-maintained engine burns fuel more cleanly and efficiently, maximizing your fuel economy and reducing emissions. Consult your owner’s manual for recommended service intervals. Review all Mazda fuel economy data to understand the brand’s overall efficiency.