Considering a used CX-5, CX-50 or CX-90 for our next car (coming from 2014 Subaru Crosstrek)
We love our Subaru (minimal complaints, genuinely great), but it's time for an upgrade in space, year, and something more fun to drive...iykyk.
We're looking at the used market only, targeting (based on budget and wants):
- 2022/2023 CX-5
- 2023/2024 CX-50
- 2024 CX-90
All ideally in Premium Plus. Back-to-back test drives are already scheduled, though trim isn't guaranteed to match. We're mainly evaluating size and ride feel.
About us: No kids, just a big dog. We camp with a rooftop tent (ikamper 2.0) on state land (established 2-track roads, not overlanding) and at racetracks (grass fields). Will be used as a daily driver and for trips. We have a truck for towing capabilities if needed.
What we want: HUD (had one on our 2007 Rendezvous, loved it) and heated/vented seats, which are our main reasons for the Premium Plus trim. Tech otherwise isn't a priority; we literally only have Bluetooth in the Subaru, lol.
On turbos: Not sold on them since we'd never run high octane consistently anyway, so the performance upside is moot for us. Not a dealbreaker though, unless there are reliability concerns.
On hybrids: We love the concept, but finding a local shop that can service them is not close, and most are out of our price range outright (and with repair costs). Open to reconsidering if the deal is right.
We know a few CX-5 owners (both say nothing but good things) and a CX-3 owner (same). Aware of a few horror stories and general used-market risks.
I've already checked r/CX5, r/CX50, r/MazdaCX90**,** Googled, and even used AI (ick). But I want the human real-world experiences (and yes, I know some accounts are bots):
- Real MPG? City/highway/combined ideally, but whatever you remember. Bonus if you mention your driving style (aggressive, average, passive).
- Noticeable size difference between them? I struggle to visualize cu. ft. in practice, especially with a large dog, camping gear, and an RTT lifestyle. If you own 2 of the 3 options that fit more stuff, and you can still see out the back (talking totes if you have them).
- How is it on long drives? We're both of average to short height, and the pup may have to deal with the 60% back seat up only for the gear/stuff.
Thanks for the help, really looking forward to joining this 'family' for a long time! Zoom! Zoom!