Hey guys! Let's dive into the 2017 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD, a vehicle that combines practicality with a touch of luxury. If you're in the market for a compact SUV, this one deserves a serious look. We're going to break down everything from its performance and handling to its interior comforts and technology, giving you a comprehensive overview. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Performance and Handling: Zoom-Zoom Refined

The heart of the 2017 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD is its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine delivers a solid 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for daily commutes and highway cruising. What's particularly impressive is how Mazda has managed to make this engine feel responsive and engaging. The acceleration is smooth and linear, making it easy to merge onto the highway or pass other vehicles. The six-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering quick and seamless shifts that enhance the driving experience. And yes, Mazda's signature 'Zoom-Zoom' spirit is definitely present.

But the performance isn't just about power; it's also about how the CX-5 handles. The steering is precise and well-weighted, giving you a good feel for the road. This makes the CX-5 surprisingly fun to drive, especially on winding roads. The suspension strikes a good balance between comfort and control, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road while still providing a composed and stable ride. The All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system adds an extra layer of confidence, especially in adverse weather conditions. It automatically distributes power between the front and rear wheels to optimize traction and stability. Whether you're dealing with rain, snow, or just uneven road surfaces, the AWD system helps keep you firmly planted. Let's not forget about fuel efficiency. The 2017 CX-5 AWD achieves respectable fuel economy figures, making it a practical choice for daily driving. You can expect to get around 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, which is competitive for its class. This means you can enjoy the performance and handling without constantly worrying about emptying your wallet at the gas pump. Overall, the 2017 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD offers a compelling blend of performance, handling, and fuel efficiency. It's a vehicle that's both fun to drive and practical for everyday use.

Interior Comfort and Technology: Luxury Touches

Stepping inside the 2017 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD, you'll immediately notice the upscale and well-designed interior. Mazda has paid close attention to detail, using high-quality materials and finishes throughout the cabin. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making them ideal for long drives. The Grand Touring trim adds leather upholstery, which enhances the luxurious feel. The front seats are also heated, providing extra comfort on cold days. The driver's seat is power-adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect driving position.

The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, with all the controls within easy reach. The seven-inch touchscreen display is the centerpiece of the infotainment system. It's easy to navigate and offers a range of features, including Bluetooth connectivity, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and a rearview camera. The infotainment system can also be controlled using a rotary knob on the center console, which many drivers find more convenient than using the touchscreen while driving. The sound system in the Grand Touring trim is impressive, delivering clear and crisp audio quality. Whether you're listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks, you'll appreciate the immersive sound experience.

In terms of technology, the 2017 CX-5 Grand Touring AWD is well-equipped. It comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. These features help to enhance safety and provide added peace of mind. The interior is also spacious and practical, with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The rear seats can be folded down to create a larger cargo area, making it easy to transport bulky items. There are also plenty of storage compartments throughout the cabin, including a glove box, center console, and door pockets. Overall, the interior of the 2017 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD is a comfortable, luxurious, and well-equipped space. It's a place where you'll enjoy spending time, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a road trip. Mazda has clearly put a lot of thought into the design and functionality of the interior, creating a vehicle that's both stylish and practical.

Exterior Design: Sleek and Stylish

The exterior design of the 2017 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD is both sleek and stylish. Mazda's KODO design language is evident in every curve and line, giving the CX-5 a distinctive and athletic appearance. The front end features a bold grille, sharp headlights, and a sculpted bumper. The overall look is modern and sophisticated, setting it apart from other compact SUVs. The Grand Touring trim adds several exterior enhancements, including LED headlights, LED taillights, and 19-inch alloy wheels. These features not only enhance the appearance but also improve visibility and safety. The LED headlights provide brighter and more focused illumination, while the LED taillights are more energy-efficient and longer-lasting.

The side profile of the CX-5 is equally appealing, with a flowing roofline and elegant character lines. The rear end features a sporty spoiler and dual exhaust outlets, adding to the athletic look. The power liftgate is a convenient feature that makes it easy to load and unload cargo. The CX-5 is available in a range of attractive colors, allowing you to choose one that suits your personal style. Whether you prefer a classic neutral color or a more vibrant hue, there's a CX-5 to match your taste. The attention to detail in the exterior design is evident in every aspect of the CX-5, from the carefully crafted body panels to the perfectly integrated lighting elements. This is a vehicle that looks good from every angle. Overall, the exterior design of the 2017 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD is a standout feature. It's a vehicle that's sure to turn heads wherever you go. Mazda has successfully combined style and functionality, creating a compact SUV that's both attractive and practical.

Reliability and Safety: Peace of Mind

When it comes to reliability and safety, the 2017 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD excels in both areas. Mazda has a reputation for building reliable vehicles, and the CX-5 is no exception. The reliability ratings for the 2017 CX-5 are generally positive, with owners reporting few major issues. This means you can have confidence in the CX-5's ability to provide years of trouble-free service. In terms of safety, the 2017 CX-5 has earned top marks from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It has received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ award from IIHS.

These ratings are a testament to the CX-5's robust safety features and its ability to protect occupants in the event of a crash. The CX-5 comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags. It also offers a range of advanced safety technologies, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These features help to prevent accidents and mitigate the severity of a crash if one does occur. The rearview camera is another valuable safety feature that makes it easier to back up and park safely. The CX-5's advanced safety technologies work together to create a safer driving environment for both the driver and passengers. Overall, the 2017 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD is a reliable and safe vehicle that provides peace of mind. You can have confidence in its ability to protect you and your loved ones on the road.

Final Verdict: Is the 2017 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD Right for You?

So, is the 2017 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD the right vehicle for you? Let's recap what we've covered. This compact SUV offers a compelling combination of performance, handling, interior comfort, technology, and safety. It's a vehicle that's fun to drive, practical for everyday use, and stylish to boot. The 2.5-liter engine provides ample power for most driving situations, while the six-speed automatic transmission delivers smooth and seamless shifts. The all-wheel-drive system enhances traction and stability, making it a great choice for drivers who live in areas with inclement weather.

The interior is well-designed and luxurious, with high-quality materials and comfortable seats. The technology features are modern and user-friendly, providing you with all the connectivity and entertainment you need. The exterior design is sleek and stylish, making the CX-5 stand out from the crowd. And the reliability and safety ratings are excellent, giving you peace of mind. Of course, no vehicle is perfect. Some potential drawbacks of the 2017 CX-5 include its slightly smaller cargo area compared to some competitors and its somewhat firm ride. However, these are minor quibbles that are unlikely to be deal-breakers for most buyers.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy the 2017 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD comes down to your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a compact SUV that offers a great driving experience, a luxurious interior, and a stylish exterior, then the CX-5 is definitely worth considering. It's a vehicle that's sure to impress. Test drive one today and see for yourself! You won't regret it!