2021 Mazda CX-5 Trim Levels with Comparisons & Configurations.

As humans, we have many different personalities that come out at various points in time. Seeking a vehicle to meet this variety of needs can be complex. As a minimalist crossover disguised as a compact sedan, the look and feel of the 2021 Mazda CX-5 is varied. Fitting into these different personalities well, the Mazda CX-5 can play many roles that fill several needs and preferences for buyers. Good for a night on the town, dropping kids off at school events, or commuting to work every day, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 is a vehicle that you can easily take wherever you go.

Introduced in 2013, the Mazda CX-5 is the first model from this automaker to be designed based off the "Kodo" concept. Sharing its developmental platform with other Mazda models, the CX-5 comes equipped with Mazda's signature suite of SkyActiv technology attributes. Lightweight but sturdy, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 was created with the goal of providing options to consumers while lower fuel emissions and being environmentally conscious.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 sought to make this model year more equipped and entertaining than ever before. Outfitted with a new infotainment system that incorporates a larger 10.3-inch touchscreen display that is mounted on top of the dash completely changes the look of this crossover's interior. Integration with Mazda Connect Services and displaying the all-new Mazda Connect interface, the CX-5 takes connectivity to the next level. App-integration and enhanced safety features that align with technology aspects are also to be expected in the 2021 Mazda CX-5 for buyers to enjoy.

The 2021 model of the Mazda CX-5 comes in six trim level options that span from the base Sport to the savvy, top of the line Signature model. These trim levels are the same as previous model years, but 2021 did see the introduction of a few new features in its Carbon Edition and its Signature trim level. Making these two trims more exclusive than ever, the changes in the 2021 Mazda CX-5 are subtle but noticeable.

Putting together this guide for consumer reference, the differences between the trim levels of the 2021 Mazda CX-5 are highlighted for consideration. Assisting buyers in finding the best Mazda CX-5 trim level to complement their lifestyle is the goal of this comparison.

Compare the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Sport vs Touring Trim Levels. What is the difference?

From the start the base Sport model for the 2021 Mazda CX-5 offers options for buyers to consider. For those interested in a more economical vehicle option, a front-wheel drive is available. While this configuration brings fuel economy to an impressive 31 hwy MPG, other buyers may wish to consider the implementation of an all-wheel drive setup. However, in exchange for a more capable ride the fuel efficiency will go down a bit to 30 hwy MPG in an all-wheel drive Sport trim

All CX-5 models come equipped with a wide array of driver-assistive safety features. This is an impressive feat in the base model Sport trim since many rivals do not offer a driver-assistive safety suite until a median trim level is reached. Included in this suite is lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, and lane departure warnings, to name a few. Additional safety features that are present on the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Sport include electronic stability control, side mirrors with turn signal integration, and braking assistance. These are also present in the next trim level for the Mazda CX-5 known as the Touring trim.

In fact, the similarities between the Sport and Touring trim are uncanny. While one would expect these two models to be similar, the features between the Sport and Touring are almost impossible to differentiate. Also available in front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, the Touring goes up a bit in price but not substantially. Offering the same 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine as the Sport trim, the Touring is a bit more equipped in technology integration. From an in-cabin communication system that is hands-free to wireless cell phone pairing, the Touring is determined to keep passengers connected along the way.

One way that the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Touring offers an improvement from the base Sport trim is the number and intensity of upgrades that are available. An optional sunroof and moonroof, power liftgate, premium surround sound system, and premium seats set buyers up for excellence in the Touring trim. Other standard features that are not offered in the Sport or are only available as upgrades include heated front seats, drive lumbar support, and headlights with auto-leveling functionality. Buyers who are looking for more versatility in a new crossover will find themselves more at home in a 2021 Mazda CX-5 Touring.

Compare the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Touring vs Carbon Edition. What is the difference?

Maintaining the same powertrain setup and performance elements, the Carbon Edition prefers to set itself apart from the Touring in other ways. Available in both a front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive setup, the Carbon Edition mimics the configuration offerings of the Touring trim. The intent of the Carbon Edition was to allow consumers to gain access to additional horsepower without having to pay for the highest two trim level offerings for the 2021 Mazda CX-5. It does this by employing the use of an automatic transmission with overdrive, a 4-cylinder engine, and i-ACTIV drivetrain technology.

The new Carbon Edition makes transportation a little easier and more comfortable than the Touring trim. Offering all the same interior and exterior features as the Touring trim, you will also find a power adjustable driver seat, Bose stereo, and power liftgate in the Carbon Edition. Yet, it also separates itself from the Touring by including 19-inch wheels, red leather seats, and black metallic grille accenting.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Edition elevates the style that is expected in this subcompact crossover. For those looking to make a statement wherever they go or are interested in a vehicle that is not your typical crossover, the Carbon Edition would be a better choice over the standard Touring trim.

Compare the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Edition vs Grand Touring Trim. What is the difference?

Topping the excellent style and distinguished attributes of the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Edition is difficult, but the Grand Touring trim manages to make it happen. Remaining true to its signature CX-5 style, the Grand Touring also offers options in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive. They also rely on the same 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine. Yet, the Carbon Edition offers something that the Grand Touring does not: a turbo engine selection.

Buyers will find the Grand Touring to be more intuitive and inclusive than the Carbon Edition. The Carbon Edition does offer many optional features as upgrades for an additional fee, but the Grand Touring implements those features as standard inclusions in its very nature. Standard features for the Grand Touring would include the previously described sunroof/moonroof combo, a power liftgate, and heated mirrors.

Furthermore, the Grand Touring introduces many optional coverages that simply are not available in the Carbon Edition. Power folding mirrors and a heated rear seat can be added onto the Grand Touring to improve convenience. A heads-up display is also an optional upgrade that the Grand Touring allows for, which will provide drivers with additional viewpoints to improve the safety of this crossover model.

Compare the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring vs Grand Touring Reserve Trim Level. What is the difference?

Despite sharing a similar name, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring, and the Grand Touring Reserve these two trim levels differ in more ways than one. In fact, the differences between these two trim levels are greater than the variances between many other trim offerings. There is no doubt the Grand Touring Reserve is more equipped and capable than the underlying Grand Touring, but it takes a certain type of buyer to appreciate this fact.

From comfort to convenience to safety, the Grand Touring Reserve is a step ahead of the Grand Touring. A standard head-up display, heated steering wheel, and power-folding mirrors prove the commitment the Grand Touring Reserve must making this crossover more comfortable than ever.

Available at an MSRP that is at least $5,000 more than the Grand Touring trim, the Grand Touring Reserve offers a dynamic driving experience. With features that are in perfect harmony and fluid movement utilization, the Grand Touring Reserve is a joy to drive. Minimal road noise and responsiveness are paired with consistent braking that sets the CX-5 apart from rivals. While these attributes are present in all trim levels of the 2021 Mazda CX-5, they really begin to shine through in the Grand Touring Reserve.

Compare the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring Reserve vs Signature Trim. What is the difference?

Relying solely on an all-wheel drive setup, this feature of the Signature trim level is the picture of what makes this trim level different from others. Boasting the highest price tag and the lowest fuel efficiency, many buyers can overlook these downfalls and appreciate the Signature trim for all that it offers. Featuring the best qualities that the 2021 Mazda CX-5 offers, the Signature trim level is classy and luxurious.

This subcompact crossover model perfectly balances power with safety and comfort, showcasing its versatile personality. A standard rear parking aide and navigation system are instant improvements from the underlying Grand Touring Reserve. These improvements to the driver-assistive safety features and technology aspects of the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Signature trim allow buyers to be fully satisfied with the attributes of this high-level trim.

Which Trim to Choose?

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offers many commendable options for buyers to consider. Designed to impress both value-driven and luxury-minded buyers, everyone can find a trim they love in this crossover model. With a base level CX-5 Sport that offers a comprehensive driver-assistive safety suite, this subcompact crossover intends to make a good impression from the start.

Employing the use of the same engine option throughout, the Carbon Edition also offers a turbo upgrade that is unique to this specific trim level. For those who are satisfied with a base level option, the Sport or Touring would be reputable selections. Yet, for those who desire a bit more from their vehicle, the Grand Touring or Grand Touring Reserve would be more admirable and accommodating.

Still yet, those who are in the market for a luxury crossover will likely settle for nothing less than the Signature trim. After all, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Signature showcases the best of every feature this model has to offer. Well-equipped and eloquently styled, the Signature trim sets the tone for a more refined driving experience that mature buyers would prefer.

Despite the appetite a buyer has for a new vehicle, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 has many great options for offer. Yet, each trim level must be examined thoroughly to ensure each customer is making the right choice in their new vehicle purchase.