I have checked the old threads for discussions of the steering feel of the CX-5, and because those threads pertained to earlier models, I am asking about this again just too see if we know that Mazda might have provided some adjustment in new models.
Having just recently driven a 2012 Miata, our 2025 CX-5 has a heavy steering feel, which I feel is heavier than it needs to be. I do not think it is an issue with my car, I think that is how they designed it for some reason. I just want to ask if there is a way to moderate that level of effort. It would be so easy for Mazda to provide a little **** on the steering column to allow you to dial in the correct level of steering feel. Do we know if they have provided any adjustment, or if there is an unapproved adjustment?

 

I'm not sure if you can change the steering assist level, but there's got to be a way since it's an electric motor. I've owned 4 VWs before the Mazda, and you were able to change the assist level via software. It has a "Normal" and "Sport" setting, and I changed them all to Sport since it's the heaviest / least assisted mode. I love heavier steering, and I find the 2021 CX-5 to be perfect. I have a 2024 CX-30 and it's slightly lighter feeling, which I don't like.

 

The Miata is obviously not an SUV (CX-5).
They have completely different uses and therefore are not engineered/designed the same.
Meaning there is zero reason for them both to have the same steering feel.
The Miata is foot shorter in length and height and is a minimum of 1200lbs lighter.
Light steering is not something that is beneficial in an AWD SUV vehicle.
You cannot sensibly compare the two whatsoever.
I'm not certain as to why you, or anyone for that matter, would purchase a vehicle if you did not like the steering feel.
That said, for a price you can modify anything to the "steering feel" you wish even your CX-5, but it will void your warranty.

 

You can NOT compare operating systems between models unless "all" the same perimeters exist between them and that they use the same "EXACT" steering components.

There are no reports "valid" that there are any issues with the steering in the 2025 CX5 Mazda. No TSBs and no service cautionary advisories notifications (we get them here at the shop same as a dealership) about issue or even complaints from owners about steering.

There are no "unapproved" steering adjustments and again this is for obvious Safety reasons because the steering input sensors have an effect of other safety system control and monitoring systems on this model Mazda.
In other words you don't fricken touch it!

And while I do agree for any amount of money you can do just about anything in the case of the Mazda steering on the 2025 CX5 it is not even reasonable all the changes in not only the steering mechanical unit but all the other inter connected sensors and controls as well which no one in their right mind would want to do or even take the chance of doing for a person that uses a vehcle like this on the public streets.

The one thing not mentioned is the SBS and LDWS Possibly but I did not confirm , steering changes or adjustments could effect the GVC ??
So mess with the with the steering and you may screw up your Mazda Why do some test drive a new vehcle buy it and then find later they don't like something as an example we see threads on the seat (butt) comfort or in this case the steering feedback and control feel??

 

Ok you have a new 25 CX5 - did you call the service dept at your dealer ? Can you roll in and have them look at it -

 

I have personally visited the plant in Mexico, and I can tell you firsthand that they are EXACTLYA like the Japanese plant with respect to the manufacturing standards.

In RED is so untrue for all dealerships. My advise take an afternoon and walk through a new vehcle arrival and watch the care and steps from the time it is unloaded from the trailer to the time it gets placed on the sales lot. Try not to assume things you have not personally experienced yourself! I have my expired CA dealers license to show that I have

supporting and posting bad or less then accurate information eventually some will lose credibility in your responses and information which actually your age is valuable on this forum!

 

I had not thought to ask the dealer, as I assumed that the feel is the way it was designed to be.
However, that is a good idea, I will ask when I eventually take it in for Oil Change #1 (complimentary).
You said something that helped me analyze the steering feel more carefully: the heaviness that I feel does
not seem to be completely related to higher levels of 'steering feel' this just feels sorta 'dead'.
I know that I will eventually get accustomed to the level of weight in the steering, but I am concerned about how my wife will adapt as she mostly drives a Pontiac Vibe (Toyo Matrix clone) that has very light steering.
We will need to practice a bit, I think.
I think it is interesting how steering feel on bigger cars and SUVs seems to be somewhat heavy these days,
in comparison to the b-i-g cars that I grew up with (long ago) that had steering so light and vague that it was like a video game.

 

My guess is your 25 is spot on -

 

I can tell a difference when driving the CX-5 with the 17" and 19" rims. With the 17" rims the steering is much lighter due to having all of the extra sidewall. However with the 19" rims, it does feel tighter and bumps are a little more firm. No matter what the steering is something you will easily get adapted to rather quickly. It's very good for being electric steering.

 

If you want to feel "heavy" steering, try a 22+ (current gen) Frontier. For some reason they went for a very heavy (unassited) feel in the D41. It is a very common complaint about the truck. No idea why they decied to do it as the D40, which I drive, is not like it at all and the trucks are virtually identical mechanically. Personally, I love the steering in the current CX-5. For electric steering, it has great weight and steering feel.