2013 Mazda CX-5: Zoom-Zoom Fun and Best in Class Gas Mileage

It would be fun to go on an 'adventure' every once in a while. However, we are usually required to drive the same route to and from work, the grocery store, or the kids' newest activities. It is easy to see how drivers can feel 'locked-in!'

Since we have to do the drive, we might as well enjoy the time! And the 2013 Mazda CX-5 is a five-passenger crossover that offers some real driving excitement! Mazda claims that this CX-5 is a clean-sheet new design. The CX-5's wheelbase measures 106.3 inches and its towing capacity is 2,000 lbs.

The CX-5's engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline mill providing 155 hp and 150 ft. lb. of torque. Down the road, a 2.2-liter twin turbo four-cylinder diesel delivering 173 hp and 310 ft. lb. of torque will likely be offered in this crossover. Mazda has reported that the diesel engine will be coming to the United States; however, the automaker is not sure if it will be in the CX-5. I'm betting the diesel will be offered in this crossover because it is well suited to this vehicle. The transmission is a smooth and quick shifting six-speed automatic or a six-speed manual gearbox.

The CX-5's 0-60 mph time should be in 9 seconds for the gasoline engine and 7.5 seconds with the diesel.

On the outside the CX-5 is handsome and athletic looking with its wide and low stance. The front grille has a wide trapezoidal shape. The headlights extend up the fenders and help to add an aggressive look. The side profile includes tight 'ready to run' lines combined with a generous glass greenhouse for good outward visibility.

Inside this crossover offers plenty of headroom at the front and back. The front seats are supportive and contain good bolstering. The audio and navigation systems can be controlled by a rotary dial on the console or by tapping a 5.8 inch touch screen. The interior materials and their fit and finish are rich looking. The controls are straightforward but well laid-out. The rear 20/40/20 seat folds down to increase the cargo volume. The rear legroom is generous for two adults or three children. There is 34.1 cubic feet of space with the seats up and 64.8 cubic feet with the back seat folded.

Additional standard interior features include power steering, windows and mirrors, cruise control, air conditioning with micro filtration, keyless entry, push button start and more.

The suspension includes MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link design at the rear.

The brakes are 16 inch discs at four corners. The tires are 255 65 17 inch but 18 and 19 inch rubber is also available.

Standard safety features on the Mazda CX-5 include six air bags (front, side, and full side curtain), four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, daytime running lights, active head restraints, dynamic stability control (DSC) and traction control (TCS), and tire pressure monitoring.

On the road the CX-5 has sporty handling that is responsive to the driver's input but it also does a good job of handling bumps both large and small. Thus, whether the driving involves regular in-town motoring (same old driving route) or on the highway traveling (adventure), the Mazda CX-5 is a solid performer that will put a smile on its driver's face.

The fuel mileage of the gasoline engine should be 26 city and 32 mpg on the highway. And assuming that the CX-5 gets the diesel engine, the mileage should top 37 mpg on the highway.

Based on the equipment level, look for the CX-5 to be priced at $20,000-$25,000. This Mazda will be in dealer showrooms in the spring of 2012.

The 2013 Mazda CX-5 is a practical, efficient and stylish crossover that includes welcomed Zoom-Zoom driving fun.

View the slideshow to see the 2013 Mazda CX-5 inside and out!

Kyle Busch is the author of "Drive the Best for the Price: How to Buy a Used Automobile, Sport-Utility Vehicle, or Minivan and Save money." He welcomes your comments or car questions at his auto web site: www.cartown1.com. Follow Kyle on Facebook and Twitter.