Small SUV Recommendations?

[CJ421]

I'm hoping to buy a new small SUV in the next 2-3 months and I was wondering if anyone could share experiences with the models I'm considering. This isn't a luxury buy, just utility, so I was thinking the low to mid-$30K range should be enough.

I'm avoiding models with CVT transmissions. Heated seats would be nice. I need a rear seat, but comfort is not a priority since they won't be occupied often. AWD/4WD is needed in my area for winter.

--Mazda CX-5. This is my top contender since I'm borrowing a 2024 CX-50 at the moment and it drives well, though it's larger than what I need.

--Hyundai Tucson. I've been in one and didn't find anything wrong with it.

--Kia Sportage. The facelifted model looks nice, but I haven't been in one.

Thanks for any thoughts.

Charles

[zx10guy]

I just bought a 2025 CX-5 S Select. Mazda has a redesigned 2026 CX-5 hitting the dealers in the next couple of months or so. There is still lots of 2025 CX-5s out there. Of the choices you've listed, for me, CX-5 hands down. I still can't get over the past engine issues Hyundai/Kia has had along with issues with some of their transmissions.

I know you're not looking for anything luxury, but the materials used in the 2025 CX-5 are high quality with lots of soft touch materials. The Select trim comes standard with heated front seats. The rear seats have a 40/20/40 split design. No CVT with a tried and true 6 speed auto. The 2.5L naturally aspirated engine is also tried and true. If you want more performance, the 2025 can be had with a 2.5L turbo. The infotainment system is a mix between touch when running Android Auto or Car Play with the need to use the "commander knob" for base functions. If you're used to iDrive, you'll be right at home with the commander knob setup.

Mazda is currently offering $2500 cash back on the 2025s. You should be able to get some decent deals as dealers are looking to clear their 2025 inventory.

If you have any specific questions about the CX-5, let me know.

[ash_schwin]

I would agree with your top choice contender, Mazda CX-5 seem like it would fit the bill. Also heard good things about VW Tiguan, but I have not done extensive research on their reliability.

[zx10guy]

I've been seeing videos of the 2026 VW Tiguan SEL turbo being a major flop. Lots of complaints about turbo/engine issues. Last I saw, VW is working on some sort of software fix. None of the dealers know what the root of the problems are. I forget the auto journalist that I first saw this. He bought a VW Tiguan SEL turbo with his own money as a long term test mule. I think after a month or two that car developed the issues being complained about. The dealer did him a solid and took the car back and put him in another Tiguan. The last video I saw he did said his second Tiguan is starting to exhibit the same problems as the first.

[XutvJet]

CX-5

[zx10guy]

Something else I wanted to add about the CX-50. It is wider and longer than the 2025 CX-5. It also has a bit more ground clearance as it's intended to be the adventure/off road car for Mazda. The rear suspension of the CX-50 is also a torsion beam where as the CX-5 has a fully independent rear.

For the US market, all CX-5s are AWD regardless of trim level.

[25 V8 IS]

My 2016 CX-5 is still going strong at 58K. Just basic maintenance. The car is rock solid.

[DanG]

If you want something smaller look at the Mazda CX-30.

[CJ421]

I appreciate the replies! The Mazda seems to be getting the votes.

Originally Posted by zx10guy

I just bought a 2025 CX-5 S Select. Mazda has a redesigned 2026 CX-5 hitting the dealers in the next couple of months or so. There is still lots of 2025 CX-5s out there. Of the choices you've listed, for me, CX-5 hands down. I still can't get over the past engine issues Hyundai/Kia has had along with issues with some of their transmissions.

I know you're not looking for anything luxury, but the materials used in the 2025 CX-5 are high quality with lots of soft touch materials. The Select trim comes standard with heated front seats. The rear seats have a 40/20/40 split design. No CVT with a tried and true 6 speed auto. The 2.5L naturally aspirated engine is also tried and true. If you want more performance, the 2025 can be had with a 2.5L turbo. The infotainment system is a mix between touch when running Android Auto or Car Play with the need to use the "commander knob" for base functions. If you're used to iDrive, you'll be right at home with the commander knob setup.

Mazda is currently offering $2500 cash back on the 2025s. You should be able to get some decent deals as dealers are looking to clear their 2025 inventory.

If you have any specific questions about the CX-5, let me know.

Thanks for this. My local dealers have tons of 2025's. Did you consider the 2026 model? It looks like they refreshed the outside, but the 2025 still looks nice.
And your Select has the 17" wheels? This seems like a bonus to me since tires are less expensive than the 19" some models come with.

Charles

[Alfisti]

WHat's a Chevy Blazer like? They look ok but never sat in one.

[Efthreeoh]

CX-5.

[zx10guy]

Originally Posted by CJ421

I appreciate the replies! The Mazda seems to be getting the votes.

Thanks for this. My local dealers have tons of 2025's. Did you consider the 2026 model? It looks like they refreshed the outside, but the 2025 still looks nice.
And your Select has the 17" wheels? This seems like a bonus to me since tires are less expensive than the 19" some models come with.

Charles

Hey Charles. I did look into the 2026. The good is the 2026 has increased in size where there's more second row space to allow for bigger people to be more comfortable. The cargo space also increased with the rear seats up and down. I think all the trim levels for 2026 have park distance sensors now. Why the 2026 is a hard pass for me is that huge tablet Mazda dropped on the dash. Pretty much all functions are now through the infotainment system which means no physical HVAC controls or even an actual physical volume knob. Plus all the 2026 trim levels have iStop (auto stop/start of the engine) and cylinder deactivation. I ran across a video of a guy who comes across as a salesman at a dealership (because he mentioned having to inform his clients), that the official launch of the 2026 was delayed for about a month from when Mazda planned to have the cars on dealer lots. He even showed the notice from Mazda. He speculates that it could be a software update that was needed. Some of the press reviews reported some glitches in using various functions of the infotainment. Also, Mazda cheapened the material quality used in the 2026. Lots of comments from press reviewers saying there was lots of hard plastic being used which is a stark contrast to the 2025.

Yes, my Select trim level comes with 17" alloy wheels. I'm of the same mindset as you about being able to get tires cheaper than the 19" alternative. The Preferred trim level also has the 17" wheels. I think the trim levels after Preferred are the 19". Also the extra sidewall to me was welcomed as I think for a compact SUV, the ride quality is a bit on the firm side. The Select trim level has everything I wanted except the outside heated mirrors which my 2019 C-HR LE had that this car replaces.

Also, if you want to avoid iStop and cylinder deactivation with the 2025 models, the base S and Select models are the only trim levels that don't have it. All the trim levels above have it. You can also confirm by looking at the VIN. The 8th digit is the engine code. If it's an L, then no iStop and cylinder deactivation. If it's an M, then it has both.

[JeffinOregon]

The new CX5 is a step Mazda had to take, and the results will likely be a disaster that may cripple the company long term.

The 2025 version is still available in many areas and is being heavily discounted. The Premium or Signature Turbo models should be sought out. They won’t be coming back.

The segment is now dominated by the CR-V and 2026 RAV4 hybrid models. They are very fuel efficient, generally very reliable, and maintain value better than anything else. The RAV4’s are difficult to find in stock, and may need to be ordered, suggesting that their residual value after purchase should be close to 100%.

At the next level, the X1 really is quite good. With its pricing remaining fairly static, the Japanese players are quickly closing in on its price point.

[zx10guy]

Originally Posted by JeffinOregon

The new CX5 is a step Mazda had to take, and the results will likely be a disaster that may cripple the company long term.

The 2025 version is still available in many areas and is being heavily discounted. The Premium or Signature Turbo models should be sought out. They won’t be coming back.

The segment is now dominated by the CR-V and 2026 RAV4 hybrid models. They are very fuel efficient, generally very reliable, and maintain value better than anything else. The RAV4’s are difficult to find in stock, and may need to be ordered, suggesting that their residual value after purchase should be close to 100%.

At the next level, the X1 really is quite good. With its pricing remaining fairly static, the Japanese players are quickly closing in on its price point.

The decision Mazda took to kill the 2.5 turbo with this next generation is due to a hybrid drivetrain Mazda is developing. Speculation is the hybrid will be available for the 2027 model year. And to be clear this hybrid engine is an all Mazda design instead of the hybrid that's available for the CX-50 which is a Toyota powerplant.

[zx10guy]

Originally Posted by DanG

If you want something smaller look at the Mazda CX-30.

I was also considering the CX-30 before buying my CX-5. In fact, I was only considering the CX-30 and the CX-5 wasn't even a consideration. The CX-5 became a consideration when the sales guy brought up what the CX-5 brings to the table for only a bit more money.

I test drove the CX-30. I was surprised by how small the interior is. I thought my previous C-HR was small. The rear seats are not really all the functional if an average sized adult sat back there. Cargo space is also very limited. The only things the CX-30 has going for it is it's go kart like driving experience and the base 2.5L engine being tuned to output 191 HP versus the 187 HP in the CX-5. The rear suspension of the CX-30 is a torsion beam which surprised me. Also, all CX-30s are built in Mexico versus the CX-5s being built in Japan.

[Alfisti]

CX-30 is for the other thread, a first timer for a teenager imho. For adult duties the CX5 is more fitting.

The Rav 4 and CRV are notably larger vehicles imho, about a 3rd to half a size up. The CRV in particular is cavernous inside. The Cx5 seems the more nimble and driver focused.

[afadeev]

CX-5 for the win.
I rented it on vacation with the family, and while somewhat bland and anemic, it handled surprisingly well on twisty roads.
I know lots of friends who got their teens CX-5, and they are all happy with the purchase.

More here:
https://www.roadandtrack.com/ranking...BoCChIQAvD_BwE

HTH,
a

P.S.: Plan B in that price range would be Rav4.

[vt100]

+1 to CX-5

Had it for 2 weeks as a rental. Didn't expect much but was pleasantly surprised with how it drives.

[QUiKSR20]

CX-5 & CX50 are pretty damn nice, We test drove both and although we ended up with an RDX A-Spec we really liked both Mazda's.
The drivetrain is what sold me on the RDX, K20 Turbo AWD and a Non CVT Transmission, My only complaint is the gas mileage isnt that great...

[chassis]

Originally Posted by zx10guy

I've been seeing videos of the 2026 VW Tiguan SEL turbo being a major flop. Lots of complaints about turbo/engine issues. Last I saw, VW is working on some sort of software fix. None of the dealers know what the root of the problems are. I forget the auto journalist that I first saw this. He bought a VW Tiguan SEL turbo with his own money as a long term test mule. I think after a month or two that car developed the issues being complained about. The dealer did him a solid and took the car back and put him in another Tiguan. The last video I saw he did said his second Tiguan is starting to exhibit the same problems as the first.

Son has a 2019 Tiguan SEL-P R-line. Great car. Bought it when VW was offering a 6 year factory warranty to boost brand awareness for the newly opened Chattanooga plant. Yes, Tiguan is made elsewhere but rising brand awareness floats all boats, to mangle an expression.

Tiguan uses the tried and true (but not perfect) EA888 2.0 DI turbo four, in production for quite some time and widely used by VAG.

Has anything changed in the past 2-3 years with the EA888? I am not aware of anything. I monitor rennlist and audiworld and see no recent glaring issues with the EA888, used in Macan and a variety of Audis.

[CJ421]

Originally Posted by Alfisti

WHat's a Chevy Blazer like? They look ok but never sat in one.

They look nice but are a bit pricey, $36k starting. I did look at the Equinox but unfortunately, it uses a CVT. I just don't like those transmissions, I feel like an applicance driving them.

Originally Posted by JeffinOregon

The new CX5 is a step Mazda had to take, and the results will likely be a disaster that may cripple the company long term.

The 2025 version is still available in many areas and is being heavily discounted. The Premium or Signature Turbo models should be sought out. They won’t be coming back.

The segment is now dominated by the CR-V and 2026 RAV4 hybrid models. They are very fuel efficient, generally very reliable, and maintain value better than anything else. The RAV4’s are difficult to find in stock, and may need to be ordered, suggesting that their residual value after purchase should be close to 100%.

At the next level, the X1 really is quite good. With its pricing remaining fairly static, the Japanese players are quickly closing in on its price point.

I did eye the X1, I think I just don't need the luxury so, I wasn't going to spend for it. I also did see mark-ups on RAV4's, which make no sense to me ...then again, Toyota markets the heck out of that car.

[CJ421]

Originally Posted by zx10guy

Hey Charles. I did look into the 2026. The good is the 2026 has increased in size where there's more second row space to allow for bigger people to be more comfortable. The cargo space also increased with the rear seats up and down. I think all the trim levels for 2026 have park distance sensors now. Why the 2026 is a hard pass for me is that huge tablet Mazda dropped on the dash. Pretty much all functions are now through the infotainment system which means no physical HVAC controls or even an actual physical volume knob. Plus all the 2026 trim levels have iStop (auto stop/start of the engine) and cylinder deactivation. I ran across a video of a guy who comes across as a salesman at a dealership (because he mentioned having to inform his clients), that the official launch of the 2026 was delayed for about a month from when Mazda planned to have the cars on dealer lots. He even showed the notice from Mazda. He speculates that it could be a software update that was needed. Some of the press reviews reported some glitches in using various functions of the infotainment. Also, Mazda cheapened the material quality used in the 2026. Lots of comments from press reviewers saying there was lots of hard plastic being used which is a stark contrast to the 2025.

Yes, my Select trim level comes with 17" alloy wheels. I'm of the same mindset as you about being able to get tires cheaper than the 19" alternative. The Preferred trim level also has the 17" wheels. I think the trim levels after Preferred are the 19". Also the extra sidewall to me was welcomed as I think for a compact SUV, the ride quality is a bit on the firm side. The Select trim level has everything I wanted except the outside heated mirrors which my 2019 C-HR LE had that this car replaces.

Also, if you want to avoid iStop and cylinder deactivation with the 2025 models, the base S and Select models are the only trim levels that don't have it. All the trim levels above have it. You can also confirm by looking at the VIN. The 8th digit is the engine code. If it's an L, then no iStop and cylinder deactivation. If it's an M, then it has both.

Thanks for all this ...you're very thorough in your research. I dislike auto stop/start and cylinder deactivation, it just screams of unreliability to me. It's a shame they cheaped out on the interior, too. I think I'll avoid the 2026.

I found many "L" VIN 2025 CX-5's nearby. Did you have to ask for a discount or did Mazda just offer a decent price up front? I'm still targeting the Select model.

I did consider the CX-30 but they look so small, and they aren't much less money, so I ruled them out.

Charles