2021 Mazda CX-5 keeps it simple

Making a change can sometimes mean losing sight of what you used to hold dear.

Thankfully, that's not the case for the 2021 Mazda CX-5. 

While the Japanese automaker has injected its latest vehicles with affordable doses of luxury-level trimmings, the company hasn't lost sight of the fun-to-drive nature that brought people into its showrooms in years past. 

If anything, it only makes this compact crossover more compelling.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 is pretty affordable, with the Sport FWD model starting at $26,370, including $1,100 for destination. 

AWD is a $1,400 option for any trim except Grand Touring Reserve and Signature, where it's standard. 

Pricing tops out with my tester's Signature trim, which will set you back $38,505 -- a fair chunk of change, yes, but still within the realm of affordability.

That puts the CX-5 in line with the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 and Nissan Rogue, all of which are viable competitors. 

However, the CX-5's biggest rivals are pretty milquetoast, offering little in the way of an interesting drive.

Keep scrolling or clicking to check out even more pictures of the 2021 Mazda CX-5.