Small improvements refine 2014 Mazda CX-5 (pictures)

The 2014 Mazda CX-5 arrived in our garage with more power and a few tech fixes.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

Our optional Tech Package includes HID headlamps that can steer with the wheels to illuminate corners.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

The Tech Package also adds Smart City Brake Support, a laser-guided collision prevention system.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

The CX-5 is a crossover, but lightweight construction means that it's not much heavier than the Mazda3 hatchback.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

The CX-5 is available in front- or all-wheel drive configurations.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

Mazda's Skyactiv suite of fuel-saving technologies extends from the engine to the chassis

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

Under the hood is a 2.5-liter Skyactiv G engine that's good for 184 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

The CX-5 features good off-the-line acceleration, but moderate speed performance was simply...moderate.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

The only transmission available is a six-speed automatic transmission with a tune that leans toward efficiency.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

You'll find no dedicated 'Sport' mode, but there is a manual shift mode.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

Not much safety tech is available on the CX-5, but blind-spot monitoring is a standard feature on the Grand Touring model.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

Rearward visibility isn't bad, but I was grateful for the Grand Touring model's standard rear camera.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

Rear stowage is plentiful, thanks to the generous rear hatch.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

These nested pulls allow the owner to drop the individual sections of the rear seats to increase storage.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

With the seats flattened, there's even more space.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

As part of the Technology Package, the CX-5 features the automaker's touchscreen infotainment system with maps powered by TomTom.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

The TomTom navigation interface is identical to what you'll find in a standalone navigation device from the manufacturer.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

However, the rest of the interface is unique to the Mazda. The difference can be jarring.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

The navigation system also has its own voice-command system, which is accurate if not a bit slow.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

The list of digital media sources includes Bluetooth, USB, and Pandora app integration.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

HD Radio is a welcome addition for fans of terrestrial radio.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

USB and auxiliary inputs can be found in the center console's armrest.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

The steering is electrically assisted, so fingertip feel isn't great. However, the crossover features good turn-in and a responsive chassis.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

The cabin features a good mix of materials that lends it a premium feel.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

The cabin isn't loud could stand to be a bit quieter, but it seems like Mazda skimped a tad on the sound-deadening to keep the CX-5's weight down.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

The Grand Touring's perforated leather seats are comfortable and feature standard heated surfaces.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

The crossover's design is windswept and muscular.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

Seventeen-inch wheels are standard, but the Grand Touring upgrades to 19s.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

Instrumentation is simple and to the point.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

Safety tech is limited to the Active Front Lighting system, Blind-Spot Monitoring, tire pressure monitoring, and traction control, which are all controlled via this bank.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

Push-button entry and start means that you can get in and go without fumbling with your keys.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

Steering wheel controls are simple and easy to reach.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

The CX-5 is a charming little crossover, but it's not perfect.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.

Check out the full review of the 2014 Mazda CX-5.