What Mazda is calling the 2016.5 CX-5 gets a number of enhancements in a mid-model year refresh.2016.5 Mazda CX-5 front 3/4 view

Mazda CX-5

Although its compact CX-5 crossover has been around since the 2013 model year, Mazda has given it a number of updates since its introduction, most notably a larger and more powerful 2.5-liter engine for most trims in 2014.

Those running changes continue nearly unabated and, despite the fact that it underwent a mild refresh for 2016, the next batch of CX-5 models will receive yet more enhancements beginning with mid-model year production vehicles.

2016.5 Mazda CX-5 rear 3/4 view

2016.5 Mazda CX-5

Calling the latest iteration the 2016.5 model, Mazda explains the changes it's making thusly:

"The added content in 2016.5 CX-5 reflects our customers' tastes toward premium features in a compelling, fun-to-drive, stylish crossover," said Robert Davis, Senior VP of U.S. Operations, MNAO. "CX-5 buyers are educated, upwardly mobile, active-lifestyle individuals. With these updates, we aim to provide them with an even greater ownership experience."

2016.5 Mazda CX-5 infotainment system detail

Although the manually-equipped FWD Sport model remains unchanged, every other trim receives additional standard equipment and an increase in its MSRP. The changes are as follows:

• A backup camera is now standard on all trim levels equipped with Mazda's SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission.
• CX-5 Touring models gain standard navigation and heated front seats.
• CX-5 Grand Touring models also add navigation as standard equipment.

2016.5 Mazda CX-5 rear hatch detail

2016.5 Mazda CX-5 prices

The new models go on sale in January with the following prices:

FWD models:

Sport 2.0L 6-speed manual transmission: $21,795
Sport 2.5L 6-speed automatic transmission: $23,595
Touring 2.5L 6-speed automatic transmission: $25,215
Grand Touring 2.5L 6-speed automatic transmission: $28,570

AWD models:

Sport 2.5L 6-speed automatic transmission: $24,895
Touring 2.5L engine 6-speed automatic transmission: $26,515
Grand Touring 2.5L 6-speed automatic transmission: $29,870

Destination charge is an additional $900 on all models ($945 in Alaska).

2016.5 Mazda CX-5 power moonroof detail

Pricing for packages:

Touring BOSE/Moonroof Package: $1,130
Touring Technology Package (Requires Bose/Moonroof Package): $1,275
Grand Touring Technology Package: $1,155
Grand Touring i-ACTIVSENSE Package (Requires Grand Touring Technology Package): $1,500
Crystal White Pearl Mica Paint (all except Sport MT): $200
Soul Red Metallic Paint (all except Sport MT): $300

2016.5 Mazda CX-5 front fascia detail