Comments by "Stephen Hendricks" (@stephenhendricks103) on "2019 Mazda CX-5 | CarGurus Test Drive Review" video.

  1. The Mazda6 is far better on that score. It's simply a matter of physics. That "higher center of gravity" is no friend of handling.
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  2. Mazda's ubiquitous 2.5L turbo is arguably best matched to the CX-5 (with the Mazda6 a close second due to stiffer competition in that segment). It's certainly better matched to the CX-5 than to the humungous CX-9. Unfortunately, though, if you want to toss more than a backpack into the trunk, the CX-5's limited cargo space is an issue. Not only is it far less than a CR-V (or a Forester) behind the rear seats, the difference is even greater in overall cargo space. At 59.6 cubic feet the cargo space is only six cubic feet more than a VW Golf. And the CR-V and Forester offer more than 25% more (!) cargo space. In fact every other compact SUV offers more. Like the looks of a crossover and value the CX-5's handling on secondary roads? It's an excellent choice. But if you care about that "U" in the SUV category, be aware of what you're giving up in terms of "utility." And if handling and performance are that important, consider that a GTI is better on both counts for the price of 6 cubic feet of cargo space for about the same price. And if AWD is that important, the Golf R adds both that feature and even more of a performance advantage for a few thousand dollars more (at least in terms of MSRP.)
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  3. And with over 70 cubic feet of cargo space and more passenger space, the Santa Fe is far more versatile.
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