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2020 Mazda CX-5 Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 12, 2026·Ethan Miller
2020 Mazda CX-5 Report

Overall Score

8.0/ 10
Our Verdict
Recommended

Key Takeaways

  • The 2020 Mazda CX-5 boasts excellent safety credentials, with a 5-star overall NHTSA rating.
  • Reliability is rated as good, supported by zero recalls and complaints in the provided data.
  • Expect an EPA-estimated 24 MPG combined from the 2.5L engine and AWD system.
  • The 6-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive are standard for this model year.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2020 Mazda CX-5

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 presents itself as a compelling option in the used compact SUV market. It earns top marks for safety, achieving a 5-star overall rating from NHTSA, including perfect scores in frontal and side crash tests. Under the hood, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive provides adequate motivation. Fuel economy is respectable, with an EPA-estimated 24 MPG combined. While the absence of recalls and complaints is a positive indicator, a thorough pre-purchase inspection is still recommended for any used vehicle.

Critical Failure Risk

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 boasts excellent safety credentials, with a 5-star overall NHTSA rating.

Early detection can reduce the odds of major repair bills.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
24
MPG
City
22
MPG
Highway
27
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.3/ 10

Practicality

4.4/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Families seeking a safe and stylish compact SUV.

+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious buyers who need the absolute lowest running costs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2020 Mazda CX-5 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2020 Mazda CX-5.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
AWD/All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
24

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Most Common Issues

No complaint hotspot data available yet.

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection

Est. shop cost: $80 - $120

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
Final buyer verdict: should you buy?
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2020 Mazda CX-5 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2020 Mazda CX-5 is 9.3/10. Reliability score is 9.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2020 Mazda CX-5 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.4/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 24 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2020 Mazda CX-5?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2020 Mazda CX-5 is 8.0/10. Overall score is 8.0/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 9.3/10. Practicality 4.4/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2020 Mazda CX-5?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500.

What is the MSRP range for the 2020 Mazda CX-5?▾

Base MSRP is $26,730.

What engine is in the 2020 Mazda CX-5?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.5.

What transmission does the 2020 Mazda CX-5 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Mazda CX-5, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2020 Mazda CX-5?▾

EPA combined estimate is 24 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2020 Mazda CX-5?▾

14 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2020 Mazda CX-5?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Mazda CX-5, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2020 Mazda CX-5?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Mazda CX-5, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2020 Mazda CX-5 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Mazda CX-5, drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2020 Mazda CX-5?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2020 Mazda CX-5?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2020 Honda CR-V and 2020 Toyota RAV4.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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