2021 Mazda CX-5 Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Excellent safety scores across the board, including 5-star ratings for overall, frontal, and side crash tests.
- Good reliability is indicated by the absence of recalls and complaints, though long-term data is limited.
- Fuel economy is competitive for its class, achieving an EPA-estimated 24 MPG combined.
- Standard all-wheel drive enhances traction and stability in various driving conditions.
2021 Mazda CX-5
Critical Failure Risk
Excellent safety scores across the board, including 5-star ratings for overall, frontal, and side crash tests.
Early detection can reduce the odds of major repair bills.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
No primary complaint themes found.
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Drivers seeking a stylish and refined compact SUV with a premium interior feel.
+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Budget-conscious buyers who need the absolute lowest entry price, as the CX-5 can command a premium.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2021 Mazda CX-5 Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Mazda CX-5.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- 4-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 guideFirst Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Wiper Blades
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2021 Mazda CX-5 reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Mazda CX-5 is 9.2/10. Reliability score is 9.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.
How practical is the 2021 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 2021 Mazda CX-5?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 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 2021 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 - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Wiper Blades at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700.
What engine is in the 2021 Mazda CX-5?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.5.
What transmission does the 2021 Mazda CX-5 use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Mazda CX-5, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is 4-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Mazda CX-5?
EPA combined estimate is 24 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Mazda CX-5?
15 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2021 Mazda CX-5?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Mazda CX-5, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2021 Mazda CX-5?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Mazda CX-5, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2021 Mazda CX-5 use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Mazda CX-5, drivetrain is 4-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Mazda CX-5?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.