Is there such thing as a best year (post 2017) for a cx-5? I'm already avoiding any with turbos, so they should all be equally as reliable, right? So long as they're out of the rust belt and have a reasonable mileage, and good carfax, of course.
Thanks!

 

I do really want the ability to keep the rear camera on while driving so I can tow some lightweight things which recommend rear cams for long trips.
The sunroofs seem pretty flawless, right?

 

Welcome to the forum.

2017 is a good year can’t really say for older. Generally speaking it goes without saying what the service record shows and complete inspection done be a shop (not Mazda) with certified mechanics and at least better a ASE Certified Automotive Diagnostic Technician . Nothing less you can’t really learn on the job for most any platforms anymore.

Over 100k miles then it becomes a challenge to find service history and more attention to things no longer being serviced regularly and preventive maintenance.

 

With the exception of the 2018/2019 and early turbos the 2017 and 2020 and up considered the better used to buy (remember there are always exceptions).
2017 is the 1st year of the second generation and generally has great reviews.
Sunroof is fine, while you will see some stories saying they "just explode" there has been no verifiable evidence of that on the very few that have reported it.
None were able to rule out a foreign object strike of some kind. You should make on effort to clean the sunroof track at least once a year to keep debris from collecting.
Camera works great but the CX-5 with the N/A engine only has a maximum towing ability of 1500lbs so don't forget that.

 

Thanks that is what I was looking for... Will avoid the 2018 & 2019 then cuz that is easy. But in terms of towing it seems they are spec'd for 2000lbs. I won't be towing that much, but I haven't seen any that claim 1500lbs. Will avoid the turbos as well because that's just extra complexity and I have a motorcycle for speed when needed

 

Thanks that is what I was looking for... Will avoid the 2018 & 2019 then cuz that is easy. But in terms of towing it seems they are spec'd for 2000lbs. I won't be towing that much, but I haven't seen any that claim 1500lbs. Will avoid the turbos as well because that's just extra complexity and I have a motorcycle for speed when needed

 

Be advised that Mazda also says the following, which many owners often fail to "notice".
Owners need to note that when towing, this maximum capacity must be reduced by the weight of any passengers, cargo, hitch, or optional equipment in the towing vehicle.
The trailer hitch itself weighs 60lbs.
The average weight of an adult male is 190lbs and a female 160lbs in the majority of industrialized countries give or take 10lbs.
It doesn't take long to get to 1500lbs or even less towing ability.