After a couple weeks of online research and a week of test driving the competition, I drove away in my new CX-5 Carbon Edition last night. We looked at Toyota Rav4, Subaru Forester and Crosstrek, Nissan Rougue, Jeep Cherokee, and Honda CRV. The CRV and the CX-5 were the finalists. The CRV was nice but we found the seats to be uncomfortable and the acceleration felt sluggish with that CVT. In the end, we couldn't pass on the CX-5 Carbon. When we shopped the competition, the quality of materials and features of the CX-5 just could not be beat. Hopefully we made the right decision. For now though: we love it!

 

When we purchased our CX-5 last year we also looked at CR-V (we were replacing an aging CR-V). I found the CR-V to be "the best appliance". Meaning if you were looking for a non-descript "tool", something to do a job well but without any thought or enjoyment, that's the one. It's a great toaster

But the CX-5 is much more than an appliance. It might not tick all the "functional" boxes that the CR-V does but you'll have a lot more fun with it.

 

Congratulations from another CE owner.
I don't know your circumstances and preferences, but all your cars mentioned are worthy competitors. All have pluses and minuses vis a vie the CE, but none has the driving dynamics, luxurious feel, simple elegance and good looks as the Mazda. Enjoy the ride.