Mazda CX-5 AWD

Mazda's i-Activ AWD is a predictive system that uses 27 sensors to monitor road conditions and preemptively distribute torque to the rear wheels before slip occurs, while Subaru's Symmetrical AWD is a full-time system that sends power to all four wheels continuously through a longitudinally mounted boxer engine layout. Subaru's system is generally regarded as more capable for serious off-road or deep snow conditions, while Mazda's prioritizes on-road handling and fuel efficiency. The CX-5's i-Activ system can send up to roughly 50% of torque to the rear.

No, front-wheel drive is standard on the base CX-5 S trim, while i-Activ AWD is either standard or available on higher trims like the S Select, S Premium, S Premium Plus, Turbo, and Turbo Signature. Mazda has been progressively making AWD standard on more trims in recent model years. The flagship Turbo Signature trim comes standard with AWD.

The Mazda CX-5 with the naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine and i-Activ AWD achieves approximately 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway according to EPA estimates. The turbocharged 2.5-liter engine with AWD drops slightly to around 22 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. These figures are competitive with the Honda CR-V AWD but slightly below the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid AWD.

The i-Activ AWD system has generally demonstrated strong reliability in owner surveys and consumer publications like Consumer Reports, with the CX-5 consistently ranking above average for predicted reliability. The system's transfer case and rear differential require regular fluid changes per Mazda's maintenance schedule to ensure longevity. Common long-term CX-5 issues tend to involve infotainment and cylinder deactivation (on newer engines) rather than the AWD hardware itself.