When choosing a vehicle, understanding the variations between trim levels is crucial. Two popular trims for the 2021 Mazda CX-5 are the Touring and Grand Touring, each offering distinct features and advantages. Explore the key differences between these trims to make an informed decision that aligns with your needs and preferences.
Exterior
Both the Touring and Grand Touring trims exude a sporty exterior with sleek grilles and sharp LED headlights. However, the Grand Touring stands out with its panoramic moonroof and rain-sensing wipers. The moonroof allows ample natural light into the cabin, creating an airy and spacious feel, while the rain-sensing wipers automatically adjust their speed and intensity based on rainfall, enhancing visibility and driver comfort.
Interior
Step inside the Touring trim to experience a spacious cabin adorned with cloth-trimmed seats and a 7-inch touchscreen display. Upgrade to the Grand Touring trim and enjoy the comfort of leather-trimmed seats that add a touch of luxury. The Grand Touring also boasts an 8-inch touchscreen for a more intuitive navigation and infotainment experience. Additionally, it features a premium Bose sound system for an immersive audio experience that elevates every drive.
Performance
Under the hood, both the Touring and Grand Touring trims are powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. However, the Grand Touring offers an optional turbocharged engine that significantly enhances acceleration and handling. This upgrade is ideal for those seeking a more exhilarating driving experience.
Safety
Both trims come standard with Mazda’s i-Activsense suite of safety features, including lane departure warning and blind-spot monitoring. The Grand Touring trim takes safety to the next level with advanced features such as adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist. Adaptive cruise control automatically adjusts the vehicle’s speed to maintain a safe following distance from the car ahead, while lane keep assist gently corrects steering to keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
Technology
The Touring trim comes equipped with a standard 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The Grand Touring trim upgrades to an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation, providing real-time directions and traffic updates. The head-up display in the Grand Touring projects essential driving information onto the windshield, keeping your eyes focused on the road and enhancing driving convenience.
The 2021 Mazda CX-5 Touring trim offers a balanced blend of features and affordability. For those seeking enhanced comfort, performance, and technology, the Grand Touring trim delivers desirable upgrades. The choice between these trims ultimately depends on your individual preferences and budget constraints. By understanding the key differences, you can make an informed decision that meets your specific needs and desires.
What are the key exterior differences between the Touring and Grand Touring trims?
The Grand Touring trim adds a panoramic moonroof and rain-sensing wipers for enhanced visibility.
How do the interiors of the Touring and Grand Touring trims differ?
The Grand Touring trim upgrades to leather-trimmed seats, an 8-inch touchscreen, and a Bose premium sound system.
Is there a difference in performance between the Touring and Grand Touring trims?
The Grand Touring trim offers an optional turbocharged engine for improved acceleration and handling.
What additional safety features are included in the Grand Touring trim?
The Grand Touring trim adds advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist.
How do the technology features of the Touring and Grand Touring trims compare?
The Grand Touring trim upgrades to an 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a head-up display for enhanced convenience.
What is the price difference between the Touring and Grand Touring trims?
The CX-5 Touring starts at $26,600, while the CX-5 Grand Touring starts at $32,000.

Feature | Touring | Grand Touring |
---|---|---|
Exterior | Sleek grille, sharp LED headlights | Panoramic moonroof, rain-sensing wipers |
Interior | Cloth seats, 7-inch touchscreen | Leather seats, 8-inch touchscreen, Bose sound system |
Performance | 187 hp, 186 lb-ft torque | Optional turbocharged engine |
Safety | i-Activsense suite | Adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist |
Technology | 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, head-up display |
Pricing | $26,600 | $32,000 |
Key Differences | Panoramic moonroof, rain-sensing wipers, leather seats, 8-inch touchscreen, Bose sound system, optional turbocharged engine, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, head-up display, navigation |