The newest version of Mazda’s compact SUV may be more modern and more practical than ever before, but not every change has been for the better. As automakers continue moving toward bigger screens, softer driving dynamics, and broader mainstream appeal, some of the sharpness and character that once made certain crossovers stand out is starting to disappear. That is exactly why some buyers may be better off shopping slightly used instead of buying brand new.

For less than the price of a new entry-level model, you can now get a lightly used turbocharged version loaded with upscale materials, premium features, and a far more engaging driving experience. It offers substantially more power, sharper handling, and a cabin that feels closer to an entry-level luxury SUV than a mainstream crossover. Even better, depreciation has pushed pricing below the $30,000 mark, making it surprisingly strong value.

While the redesigned model wins points for added space and updated tech, the older turbocharged version still feels more special from behind the wheel. For enthusiasts who value driving feel as much as practicality, the used option may actually be the smarter buy.

You can get a lightly used 2023 Mazda CX-5 Turbo for less than a new model

More power, more features, more savings

The new 2026 CX-5 is a pretty impressive crossover, and a natural evolution of Mazda’s most popular SUV. However, with as many improvements as there were, the brand chose to stray from their roots in a couple of places. If you prefer the old CX-5’s design ideology, there is good news. You can buy a lightly used CX-5 with the optional turbocharged engine for less than a new CX-5, which does without the turbocharger.

2023 Mazda CX-5 Turbo trims and pricing

A brand new 2026 CX-5 starts at $29,990, which, to be fair, is a pretty competitive starting price for the segment. Thanks to some heavier than average depreciation in its first couple years, though, used turbocharged models are starting less than that. When new, a 2023 CX-5 Turbo started at $38,225, with the Signature model demanding a whopping $41,025, meaning you’re saving yourself over $10,000 here by going used.

Despite their initially high starting prices, we think the Turbo models were well worth the nearly $40,000 they cost when they were new. Despite wearing a mainstream badge, these trim levels were better suited to doing battle with luxury brands like BMW or Audi. They are sleek, comfortable, and pack more of a wallop than you’d expect.

Which trim should you get?

Considering the difference in price between the two 2023 models is now relatively low, we would make the jump up to the Turbo Signature. It still remains under the $30,000 mark, but comes loaded with high-end luxury features. The top-of-the-line model comes with things like Nappa leather upholstery, genuine layered wood trim, a 360-degree camera, and acoustic glass, all on top of the already stacked feature list you get on the base Turbo.

We wish that the new model came with the old turbocharged engine

The 2023 CX-5 Turbo is quick and exceptionally engaging

Credit: Mazda

One of the small changes made to the CX-5 for 2026 that we are a bit sad about is the fact that they no longer offer the turbocharged engine as an option. While it remains one of the most engaging mainstream SUVs in terms of its driving dynamics, it lacks the grunt that you get from the 2023 CX-5 Turbo.

2023 Mazda CX-5 Turbo performance

Like the non-turbocharged CX-5s from 2023, the new 2026 model comes equipped with a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine that makes 187 horsepower. You can no longer get the turbocharged engine. This alone makes the 2023 model a more appealing buy for enthusiasts. With premium fuel, you get some whopping power figures out of the turbocharged engine, though those are reduced slightly if you run regular gas.

Along with a powerful engine, the 2023 CX-5 Turbo is one of the most engaging SUVs on the market, regardless of segment or class. Its fantastically weighted steering is precise and loads up nicely in the corners. It also handles superbly, particularly for something that weighs as much as it does. Its driving dynamics feel sportier and more alive than what you get from modern BMWs. Its ride is also balanced in such a way that it is also capable of really comfortable cruising.

Where the new model wins is practicality, but we still prefer the old cabin

Mazda made the CX-5 bigger and more modern for 2026

Mazda has traditionally stood out in the market by offering something a little different. Instead of overloading you with screens and tech-based gimmicks, they focused on sleek quality and comfort. The new CX-5 definitely takes the brand in a more mainstream direction, and it has gotten a little more practical. If you’re like us, though, the traditional layout in the 2023 model is just a little more appealing.

Interior dimensions and comfort

We think that the 2023 CX-5 is as practical as it needs to be. Some rivals offer a more spacious rear bench, but even taller passengers won’t ever feel particularly cramped. The story is the same for the cargo area, which is smaller than the segment average, but big enough for most things that buyers will haul. Both rear seat legroom and cargo space have grown in the 2026 model.

We feel that the new CX-5 has lost a bit of its character. While the updated steering wheel is cool, everything else feels a little too far in the direction of minimalism. The outgoing model had a much more interesting interior, one that felt luxurious and unique. If you opt for a 2023 Turbo model, you also get some of the best features on offer, including leather upholstery and trim, wood trim, a power liftgate, heated and ventilated front seats, and acoustic glass to keep road noise out of the cabin.

Infotainment and technology

Instead of a massive touchscreen in the center of the dashboard, the 2023 CX-5 Turbo comes standard with a 10.3-inch screen which sits on top of the dashboard, pillowed by soft-touch leather. It is an accent to the dashboard rather than the focal point. You also get a hybrid gauge display, where the center circle is a screen, and a heads-up display. All this, and you get physical climate controls too.

There is no lack of modern tech here, with standard wireless smartphone mirroring, a wireless charging pad, and built-in navigation all being standard. You also get a comprehensive driver assist suite, including adaptive cruise control and traffic sign recognition. Turbo models also come equipped with a pretty crisp Bose sound system.

Despite the changes, we still prefer the old CX-5

Mazda may not realize this, but when they launched their current lineup of vehicles, excluding the new CX-5, they were extremely far ahead of the competition. From quality to performance, they felt more like an entry-level luxury brand, and the 2023 CX-5 Turbo proves it. The new model may have a little broader appeal, but it has lost a lot of what made it special. If we had $30,000 to spend, we’d get a 2023 Turbo instead of a new model.