2017 Mazda CX-5 vs BMW X1 vs Audi Q3 vs Lexus NX vs Mercedes-Benz GLA Mashup Review

The 2017 Mazda CX-5 does not directly compete with the BMW X1, Audi Q3, Lexus NX or the Mercedes-Benz GLA.

However, according to Mazda these cars demonstrate some of the best driving characteristics that the new 2017 Mazda CX-5 has in spades.

Recently I had the chance to drive and review the 2017 Mazda CX-5 and I walked away impressed by just how much Mazda has moved the car upmarket.

Mazda wants to showcase the car’s newfound refinement. To prove that the 2017 Mazda CX-5 is moving up to the premium small compact crossover segment. That’s why in San Diego Mazda recently gathered the best German and Japanese cars that compete in the premium compact crossover segment for us to compare to the new 2017 Mazda CX-5.

Keep in mind that these premium compact crossovers cost between $10,000 and $15,000 dollars more than the Mazda. They also all come with turbocharged engines that produce more power and torque than the Mazda. So while theses cars may compete in terms of size, they do not compete in terms of power, prestige or price.

How does the 2017 Mazda CX-5 compare to the BMW X1, Audi Q3, Lexus NX and the Mercedes-Benz GLA?

Andre and I drove all five of these cars back to back. We also spoke with a Mazda engineer who told us his take the driving dynamics of the gathered crossovers. Right about now you might be wondering what’s the point of this compact crossover mashup. That what we were thinking until we got behind the wheel of all five cars. We found that all this mashing up of different cars makes for an interesting dynamic comparison that highlights the strengths and weaknesses each car.

Check out the video below. Please let up know what you think in the comments section.