I am looking for a used CX5 with the 2.5 engine. I have narrowed my choice to either a 2016 CX-5 Sport with AWD from Hertz Car Sales, or a 2014 CX-5 Touring model with FWD from a Chevy dealer one owner trade in. Both have about 40k and seem in excellent shape. The 2016 Sport with AWD is only $1000 more, but was a Hertz Rental Car. Any advice? Do the 2016 models have better suspensions and a smoother ride?

 

I would go over the service history of the hertz vehicle with a fine tooth comb, rentals are usually not well serviced. Also get a independent mechanical inspection done.

 

I worked for Hertz when I was in college and they serviced the vehicles religiously then, but you never knew what the renters were going to do with them. Please note that my experience is from 50 years ago though <grin>.

I will add that I purchased a 95 4Runner that had been a rental and had no problems with it except that it started losing a significant amount of oil after about 95,000 miles. On the other hand, the 86 4Runner I bought brand new did the same thing.

 

I would go for the 2016 AWD. Mazda's warranty is transferable and I think it's good for 60,000 miles. I think you'll enjoy the handling of the AWD version. I would have either car checked out. Also check the tires. Make sure all 4 match and check tread depth. A new set of tires will be a few hundred dollars.

 

I'd never buy a vehicle that was a rental. I usually take good care of my rentals but most people don't.