
The infotainment screen is small, but its audio and nav functions are controlled via a pair of knobs conveniently located on the center console.Mazda’s CX-5 is Mazda’s best-selling vehicle in the USA. It's also the only wheel of the lot with shift paddles. The shifter moves with expensive precision, the classic white-on-black gauge faces on the cluster are crisp, and the steering wheel is upscale. Sleek shapes, delicate brightwork, and top-grade materials give you the sense that this crossover comes from a luxury brand rather than a mainstream automaker. The CX-5 is special from the moment you climb in. It's the subjective categories-its design, interior materials, and driving character-that propel the Mazda into the winner's circle. Based solely on the objective results, the CX-5 would be dead last, but the data doesn't define greatness. Once again, the 10Best-winning CX-5 emerges on top, and once again, the story is quality over quantity. If space is a priority, the Tiguan would make a fine consolation. The upscale and light-footed Mazda CX-5 does everything well as long as your kids aren't six feet tall. Plus, the mechanical shifter protruding from the dashboard clacks inexpensively. It's fussy and lacks a tuning knob, and the navigation display is small. The tablet-like center-stack screen contains Honda's last-generation infotainment system. The materials are handsome but far from upscale, and the design is not bleeding-edge modern. The interior's ambience doesn't quite match its practicality, though. The center console has a lot of storage space and can be configured several different ways to best handle your stuff. The cargo floor has two positions, the higher of which enables a flat load floor from the liftgate opening to the front seatbacks (once you've folded the second row, of course). The CR-V also accommodates the most boxes with the rear seats folded. Those essentials begin with comfortable seats and generous second-row kneeroom. If you want that box to be spirited or luxurious, look elsewhere. If you're looking for the best box, it's hard to beat the expertly packaged Honda.
