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

  1. Good job, Mazda. Haven't driven the new CX-5 but I've driven both the Mazda6 and the CX-9 with the same engine. I suspect its best application may be in the CX-5. The CX-9 is simply huge with a terribly inefficient allocation of interior space. (Less than the Kia Sorento that's over 10 inches shorter.) Furthermore, most of its competition (other than the Subaru Ascent) offer naturally aspirated V6's, engines that are better suited to the larger midsize CUV category. In the Mazda6 the 2.5L turbo does a good job but there the competition from the Honda Accord 2.0L turbo, a version of the engine in the Civic Type R, and naturally aspirated V6 Toyota Camry is stiff. The Mazda is undoubtedly superior to the earlier versions of the Accord and Camry but in terms of performance it trails both the new Honda and the Toyota. As nice as the Signature trim of the CX-5 is, I suspect it's a pipe dream to think it will steal many sales from the Acura RDX. Customers seriously shopping for an RDX won't be deterred by the price premium, especially in view of the more upscale interior, more room, and better dealer experience with the Acura. More likely it will make a dent in Honda CR-V and Toyota Rav4 upper trim sales where the price points are roughly equivalent and the Mazda's engine is arguably superior. The most credible rival is likely to be the Hyundai Santa Fe. Its "tweener" size offers more utility than the smaller CX-5 and in its "Ultimate" trim, it comes close to the Signature trim of the Mazda with better infotainment, a panoramic sunroof, a center locking differential, and a variety of other innovative features. On the other hand, the Mazda is likely to handle better especially considering that its several hundred pounds lighter than the Hyundai. And while styling is obviously subjective, most, I think, would agree the Mazda is more attractive.
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