[Video] BMW X1 vs. Mazda CX-5 vs. Audi Q3 vs. Merc GLA-Class

Mazda produces pretty impressive cars with affordable prices but it not considered as a premium brand and they’d like to change that. Can their new CX-5 crossover win a back-to-back competition with the BMW X1, Audi Q3, Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class and the Lexus NX? Find out on this video review:

The Fast Lane Car drives the new CX-5 and the premium crossovers mentioned above. There is also a short interview with Dave Coleman, the Vehicle Dynamics Manager for Mazda, where he discussed the goal of Mazda to create intuitive cars. Coleman openly criticises the poor throttle response of the Merc, the lack of steering feel of the Audi, and the odd steering wheel position of the BMW. Accotding to Coleman, Mazda actually provides a more intuitive and sharper driving response even if it is not considered as a premium vehicle.

Of course the CX-5 is slower than all the cars in this line-up. It only has a naturally-aspirated 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine which is best in its class (in comparison with the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V).

Overall the reviewers feel that the criticism made by Coleman to the premium cars are somewhat true. However, it still doesn’t make the Mazda a better car among the line up. The CX-5 may be ahead of its segment but not sufficient to defeat the bigger brothers in the premium segment.