2025 Mazda CX-5 Configurations: Trim Levels, Powertrain Options, and Key Differences

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 continues as one of the more thoughtfully structured compact SUVs in its segment — not because it offers dozens of configurations, but because its trim ladder is relatively focused. Understanding how those configurations are organized helps buyers figure out where their budget lands relative to the features they actually want.

How Mazda Structures the CX-5 Trim Lineup

Mazda uses a sequential trim structure for the CX-5, meaning each step up the ladder adds to — rather than replaces — what came before. For 2025, the lineup generally runs through the following tiers:

• 2.5 S — base configuration
• 2.5 S Select — mid-entry
• 2.5 S Preferred — mid-range
• 2.5 S Carbon Edition — appearance-focused variant
• 2.5 S Premium — upper-mid
• 2.5 S Premium Plus — near-top
• 2.5 Turbo — performance-focused top tier
• 2.5 Turbo Signature — fully loaded

Trim names and exact availability can vary by model year and market. Always verify current configurations directly with Mazda or at a dealership, as mid-cycle adjustments sometimes affect what's offered.

The Two Engine Options 🔧

The CX-5's configuration split runs deeper than trim level — the powertrain choice is a meaningful dividing line.

2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder Most trims below the Turbo use a naturally aspirated 2.5L engine producing approximately 187 horsepower (or up to 191 hp on premium fuel, depending on configuration). It's paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This engine prioritizes fuel efficiency and smooth everyday driving over outright performance.

2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder The Turbo trims use the same displacement but add a turbocharger, pushing output to around 227 horsepower on regular fuel and approximately 256 hp on premium fuel. Torque increases substantially — roughly 310 lb-ft at peak — which changes the character of the vehicle noticeably, especially during highway merging and passing.

Both engines send power to all four wheels through Mazda's i-ACTIV AWD system on most configurations. Some base trims may offer front-wheel drive (FWD) as a lower-cost entry point — check availability by trim for the current model year.

What Changes Across Trim Levels

Mazda's i-Activsense driver assistance package — which includes radar cruise control, lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring — is standard across the lineup, though the completeness of the package expands on higher trims.

The Carbon Edition: Appearance vs. Content

The Carbon Edition is a trim that sits within the non-turbo lineup but is distinguished by exterior styling rather than mechanical upgrades. It typically features a blacked-out exterior treatment — dark wheels, dark badges, gloss-black accents — along with red interior stitching. It's designed for buyers who want a sportier visual presence without moving to the turbocharged powertrain. Its feature content sits roughly in the Preferred range, though the exact equipment list should be confirmed for the specific model year.

AWD vs. FWD: Where the Choice Exists

On most CX-5 configurations, i-ACTIV AWD is standard. A front-wheel-drive option may be available on the base 2.5 S trim, which can affect both the sticker price and fuel economy ratings. The turbocharged trims come exclusively with AWD.

Mazda's AWD system is a reactive, torque-vectoring setup that distributes power to the rear wheels when front-wheel slip is detected. It's not a traditional four-wheel-drive system with low-range gearing — it's designed for on-road traction and mild off-pavement use, not rock crawling or serious trail work.

Fuel Economy Across Configurations

EPA estimates vary by powertrain and drivetrain configuration. As a general benchmark:

• Naturally aspirated + AWD: approximately 24–28 mpg combined (varies by trim and driving conditions)
• Turbocharged + AWD: slightly lower combined ratings due to power output, though real-world figures depend heavily on how the turbo is used

Fuel economy figures are EPA estimates and will differ based on driving habits, geography, and conditions. 🌿

What Shapes the Right Configuration for Any Buyer

The configuration question for the CX-5 usually comes down to a few core trade-offs:

• Turbo vs. non-turbo — performance priority vs. fuel economy and cost
• FWD vs. AWD — climate, terrain, and budget considerations
• Base features vs. luxury touches — whether heated rear seats, ventilated seats, or a head-up display matter for the way the vehicle will actually be used
• Carbon Edition appeal — styling-focused buyers may find it hits a value point; feature-focused buyers may not find it as compelling

The fully loaded Turbo Signature sits at the top of the price range and includes nearly every available feature. The gap between that and the base 2.5 S can represent a significant dollar difference — often several thousand dollars depending on regional pricing and dealer inventory.

Where any specific buyer lands in that spectrum depends on their budget, how they drive, what climate they live in, and which features they'd actually use versus which ones simply add to the sticker price.