I just bought a 2016 CX-5 Grand Touring edition with AWD. I have owned real 4-WD vehicles before, this is my first AWD vehicle. My concern is the AWD operation. There is no way to engage the AWD system when I need It. I believe the AWD kicks in when needed. If I where the get lost traction I assume I all I can do is turn off the TCS to hopefully get the needed traction. Any tips, clues and other actions would be appreciated. I know this vehicle isn't an off road vehicle. My concern is snowy and icy road conditions. I am aware of snow tires. I went thru a brutal divorce, and got cleaned out. So i have to deal with tires that came with the CX-5, luckily they where replaced. I bought a Mazda certified used vehicle, with 40,000 miles on it. This is my first post, from southern Missouri.

 

Welcome!
You haven't missed anything. After reading anything in the owners manual on the subject I searched and found this:

https://www.holidaymazda.com/how-to-...ur-mazda-cx-5/
https://insidemazda.mazdausa.com/the...drive-systems/

It's not what you were hoping for I'm afraid. ☹

 

Welcome to the forum and sorry to hear about your recent divorce. Regarding your comment: " I assume I all I can do is turn off the TCS to hopefully get the needed traction." is exactly what I know as well. Did not have to engage it yet since it did not snow heavily in my 2-year ownership here in NC.