I see Mazda is not offering Sirius XM in the Preferred ("Touring") trim. I would have to move up to the Premium ("Grand Touring") trim.
The Premium trim is 2,710 more money. Can Sirius XM be added in the aftermarket without jumping through hoops?

Also, does the 19-inch wheel and tire setup noticeably improve handling or braking? I see tires in both setups are 225mm wide.;

 

Define "offering" in reference to Sirius/XM, Typically, you'd get 6 months of Sirius/XM for free on most all
models. Perhaps it's available, but no FREE subscription. Ask the sales dept..


My 2¢

 

If you look on the Mazda web site and build out a '22, Sirius/XM isn't included until you hit the 2.5 S Premium trim level which starts at 32,310. I think he wants it in a lower level car "Preferred" which starts at 29,600. It is likely possible to add it, but you probably won't like the price. It may be easier and more cost effective to go with the Premium trim and get some other goodies (BOSE, Led signature lighting and adaptive headlights, improved LCD display in the gauge cluster, paddle shifters, 19" wheels) (the Bose radio alone is much nicer than the stock 6-sp radio and it appears this is the requirement to get Sirius/XM in the new model).

As for the 19" wheels- the car will ride a firmer and have more responsive handling, but this may not be what you are looking for. The 17"ers will give a smoother ride. Highly recommend driving both the Preferred and Premium models to see what you like. The cost delta is not a lot so it may be worth it to go for the Premium model.

 

Thank you for the replies. I may have to cough up the additional money for the Premium trim. Will compare once the 2022's hit the showroom.
My original plan was to get a preowned 2019 RDX with tech package... until the used car market heated up and shot up prices by $7-8k.

 

You likely dodged a bullet on that one. I had a 16 RDX for 3yrs. Was happy to ride myself of it. Lots of issues. The cx5 has been much more reliable.

 

Got the Premium trim at MSRP. Nice adaptive LED headlights. Bose system is decent....wish it was better.

 

I think you will be happy with your choice. The radio could be better but its actually pretty good once you get it adjusted.

 

Noticed last night a lack of ambient lighting around the center console and no cargo area lighting when the liftgate is open. Any suggestions ?
The paper specs for the rear seating area seems high.

 

Check the switch on your rear hatch as often they are switched off for transport. I also recommend LED bulbs for all the interior lights to increase output. There isn't much ambient lighting in the CX-5, one of its weaknesses. You can buy a Mazda kit to add foot well ambient lighting if desired. It would be nice if they had it in the interior door handles as standard.