Hey guys! Let's dive into the 2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring, a crossover SUV that's been turning heads since its release. If you're in the market for a reliable, stylish, and fun-to-drive vehicle, this might just be the one for you. We're going to break down everything you need to know, from its performance and features to its interior and overall driving experience. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Overview of the 2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring

The 2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring is a compact SUV that perfectly blends practicality with a touch of luxury. It's part of the second generation of the CX-5, and Mazda really upped their game with this model. The Grand Touring trim sits at the top of the CX-5 lineup, offering a range of premium features that make it stand out from the lower trims. Think of it as the sweet spot between affordability and indulgence. This model year is particularly appealing because it incorporates several enhancements and refinements over previous years, making it a well-rounded and mature offering in the crowded compact SUV segment. One of the most notable aspects of the 2016 CX-5 Grand Touring is its fuel efficiency. Mazda's SKYACTIV technology ensures that you're not just getting a peppy engine, but also excellent gas mileage. This is a huge plus for anyone who does a lot of driving, whether it's commuting to work or taking long road trips. Beyond fuel economy, the CX-5 also shines in terms of handling. It's surprisingly agile for an SUV, making it fun to drive on winding roads. The steering is precise, and the suspension does a great job of soaking up bumps without feeling floaty. Inside, the Grand Touring trim boasts a refined interior with leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a premium sound system. These features add a touch of luxury that you might not expect in this price range. The infotainment system is also user-friendly, with a 7-inch touchscreen display and a rotary control knob. Safety is another area where the 2016 CX-5 Grand Touring excels. It comes standard with a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. These features can help you stay aware of your surroundings and avoid accidents. Overall, the 2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring is a compelling choice for anyone looking for a compact SUV that offers a blend of style, performance, fuel efficiency, and features. It's a vehicle that's equally at home on city streets and open highways, making it a versatile option for a wide range of drivers.

Key Features and Specifications

Let's break down the key features and specs of the 2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring. This will give you a clear picture of what this SUV brings to the table. Understanding these details is crucial whether you're comparing it to other models or just want to know what you're getting. The engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 184 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, which provides smooth and responsive shifts. You have the option of either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, depending on your needs and preferences. The fuel economy is impressive, with the front-wheel-drive model getting an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The all-wheel-drive model gets slightly lower numbers, at 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, but it's still very competitive for its class. Inside, the Grand Touring trim comes with a host of premium features. Leather upholstery is standard, giving the cabin a luxurious feel. The front seats are heated, which is a welcome addition on cold mornings. You also get an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat with power lumbar support, making it easy to find a comfortable driving position. The infotainment system features a 7-inch touchscreen display, a rotary control knob, and voice command functionality. It includes Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to stream music and make hands-free calls. A rearview camera is standard, as are blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. These safety features can help you stay aware of your surroundings and avoid accidents. Other notable features include a power sunroof, a premium Bose sound system, and automatic climate control. The Bose sound system delivers crisp and clear audio, making your favorite music sound even better. The automatic climate control keeps the cabin comfortable, no matter the weather outside. In terms of dimensions, the 2016 CX-5 Grand Touring is a compact SUV that's easy to maneuver in tight spaces. It has a length of 179.3 inches, a width of 72.4 inches, and a height of 65.7 inches. The cargo area offers 34.1 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, which expands to 64.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This is plenty of room for groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. Overall, the 2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring offers a compelling combination of performance, features, and practicality. It's a well-rounded SUV that's sure to impress.

Interior and Comfort

Stepping inside the 2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring, you'll immediately notice the attention to detail and the quality of materials used. Mazda has really focused on creating a comfortable and refined cabin that rivals some of the more expensive SUVs on the market. The leather upholstery is soft and supple, adding a touch of luxury to the seats and other surfaces. The front seats are well-bolstered, providing good support during long drives. The eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat makes it easy to find the perfect driving position, and the power lumbar support helps to reduce fatigue on your lower back. The heated front seats are a nice touch, especially during the colder months. They warm up quickly and provide a cozy feeling on chilly mornings. The rear seats are also comfortable, with plenty of legroom and headroom for adults. The rear seats can recline slightly, allowing passengers to relax and enjoy the ride. The 2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring also comes with a range of features designed to enhance comfort and convenience. Automatic climate control keeps the cabin at a consistent temperature, regardless of the weather outside. A power sunroof lets in natural light and fresh air, creating a more open and airy feeling. The premium Bose sound system delivers crisp and clear audio, making your favorite music sound even better. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with a 7-inch touchscreen display and a rotary control knob. The rotary control knob is particularly useful, as it allows you to navigate the menus without having to reach for the screen. The infotainment system also includes voice command functionality, allowing you to control various features with your voice. The cabin is also well-insulated, reducing road noise and wind noise. This creates a quieter and more relaxing driving experience. The dashboard and door panels are made of high-quality materials, and the overall fit and finish are excellent. There are plenty of storage compartments throughout the cabin, including a large glove box, door pockets, and a center console. The cargo area offers 34.1 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, which is plenty of room for groceries or luggage. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more space, expanding the cargo area to 64.8 cubic feet. Overall, the interior of the 2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring is a comfortable and refined space that's perfect for both short commutes and long road trips. The attention to detail and the quality of materials make it a standout in its class.

Driving Experience

The 2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring is not just about looks and features; it's also a joy to drive. Mazda has always been known for its focus on driving dynamics, and the CX-5 is no exception. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine provides ample power for most driving situations. It's responsive and eager to rev, making it fun to accelerate and pass other cars on the highway. The six-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and quickly, and it always seems to be in the right gear. One of the things that sets the CX-5 apart from other SUVs is its handling. It feels more like a sporty hatchback than a traditional SUV. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing good feedback from the road. The suspension is firm but not harsh, and it does a great job of controlling body roll in corners. This makes the CX-5 feel confident and composed, even on winding roads. The ride quality is also good, thanks to the well-tuned suspension. It soaks up bumps and potholes without feeling floaty or disconnected from the road. The brakes are strong and responsive, providing plenty of stopping power when you need it. The 2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring also comes with a range of features that enhance the driving experience. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert help you stay aware of your surroundings and avoid accidents. A rearview camera makes it easy to park and maneuver in tight spaces. The all-wheel-drive system (if equipped) provides added traction and stability in slippery conditions. It can automatically transfer power to the wheels that need it most, helping you stay in control on snow-covered or icy roads. The CX-5 is also relatively quiet on the road, thanks to its well-insulated cabin. This reduces road noise and wind noise, making it easier to have conversations and enjoy your music. Overall, the driving experience of the 2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring is one of its strongest points. It's a fun-to-drive SUV that's also comfortable and practical. Whether you're commuting to work or taking a road trip, the CX-5 is sure to put a smile on your face.

Potential Issues and Reliability

While the 2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring is generally a reliable vehicle, it's important to be aware of some potential issues that owners have reported. Knowing these issues can help you make an informed decision and be prepared for any potential maintenance or repairs. One common issue is related to the infotainment system. Some owners have reported that the touchscreen can be unresponsive or glitchy at times. This can be frustrating, especially if you rely on the infotainment system for navigation or music. Another potential issue is with the automatic transmission. Some owners have reported that the transmission can hesitate or shift roughly, particularly when accelerating from a stop. This issue seems to be more common in the earlier model years of the CX-5. There have also been some reports of problems with the air conditioning system. Some owners have reported that the AC can blow warm air or stop working altogether. This can be a major inconvenience, especially in hot weather. In terms of reliability, the 2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring generally scores well. It has a good reputation for dependability, and many owners report that they have had few or no problems with their vehicles. However, like any car, the CX-5 is not immune to issues. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are essential to keep it running smoothly. It's also a good idea to have a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle before you buy it, especially if you're purchasing a used model. They can identify any potential problems and give you an estimate of the cost of repairs. Overall, the 2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring is a reliable vehicle that offers a lot of value for the money. However, it's important to be aware of the potential issues that owners have reported. By doing your research and being prepared, you can make an informed decision and enjoy many years of trouble-free driving.

Is the 2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring Right for You?

So, is the 2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring the right car for you? That's a question only you can answer, but let's break down the key considerations to help you decide. First, consider your needs and priorities. Are you looking for a compact SUV that's fuel-efficient, fun to drive, and packed with features? If so, the CX-5 Grand Touring is definitely worth considering. It offers a great blend of practicality and luxury, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of drivers. If you prioritize fuel economy, the CX-5 is one of the best in its class. Its SKYACTIV technology helps it achieve impressive gas mileage, without sacrificing performance. If you enjoy driving, you'll appreciate the CX-5's sporty handling and responsive engine. It feels more like a hatchback than an SUV, making it a joy to drive on winding roads. If you want a vehicle that's comfortable and refined, the Grand Touring trim is a great choice. It comes with leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a premium Bose sound system, adding a touch of luxury to the cabin. However, if you need a lot of cargo space or rear-seat legroom, you might want to consider a larger SUV. The CX-5 is a compact SUV, so it's not as spacious as some of its competitors. If you're concerned about potential reliability issues, it's important to do your research and be prepared. While the CX-5 is generally a reliable vehicle, some owners have reported problems with the infotainment system, transmission, and air conditioning. Be sure to have the vehicle inspected by a trusted mechanic before you buy it, and keep up with regular maintenance to minimize the risk of problems. Overall, the 2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring is a great choice for anyone looking for a compact SUV that offers a blend of style, performance, fuel efficiency, and features. It's a well-rounded vehicle that's sure to impress. But it's important to consider your needs and priorities, and to be aware of the potential issues before you make a decision.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring stands out as a compelling option in the crowded compact SUV market. It successfully blends sporty driving dynamics, a refined interior, and commendable fuel efficiency, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of drivers. Its stylish design and available features, such as the premium Bose sound system and leather upholstery, add a touch of luxury that elevates the overall ownership experience. While it's essential to be aware of potential issues reported by some owners, the CX-5 generally enjoys a good reputation for reliability. Regular maintenance and a thorough inspection before purchasing a used model can help mitigate these concerns. Ultimately, whether the 2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring is the right car for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize a fun-to-drive experience, comfortable interior, and good fuel economy, the CX-5 is definitely worth considering. Its combination of practicality and style makes it a well-rounded choice that's sure to impress.