Is the Equinox roomy and comfortable enough, or is the Traverse worth the extra investment?

See a side-by-side comparison of the Equinox & Traverse »

What the Equinox Gets Right

The Equinox does an admirable job of accommodating five passengers. The rear seat slides and reclines, and ride quality is impressive for a vehicle of this size. Active noise cancellation assures a quiet environment, even at highway speeds. Buyers gets 31.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat, and 63.9 cubic feet with it folded. These numbers are typical for a compact crossover.

The standard 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine produces an adequate 182 horsepower, but the optional 301-horsepower, 3.6-liter V6 transforms the Terrain into a swifter CUV. The Equinox is one of just a few small crossovers to still offer V6 power, although will change with its upcoming redesign. All-wheel drive is available with either engine, and a six-speed automatic comes standard.

What the Traverse Gets Right

The Traverse is powered by a 281-horsepower, 3.6-liter V6 engine, matched to a six-speed automatic transmission. When equipped with the optional all-wheel drive system, the Traverse can tow up to 5,200 pounds. That's well above average for a family-oriented crossover.

While many crossovers offer three rows of seating, the Traverse really means it. The third row is big enough for two adults, and even three on short trips. With all seats taken, cargo space is a usable 24.4 cubic feet. With the second and third rows folded, the Traverse can accept 116.3 cubic feet of cargo. No other crossover holds more.

Which Approach Works Better?

The Equinox will appeal to smaller families that need more capability than a passenger car can offer. Its quiet interior and optional V6 engine distinguish it from over compacts.

The Traverse offers a whole different level of space and capability for those who need it. In terms of crossover for the money, it has few challengers.

Our Verdict: Chevrolet Traverse

The Traverse can easily handle everything most buyers will ask of it.

Take a closer look at the Chevrolet Equinox »

Take a closer look at the Chevrolet Traverse »

Both are pleasant small cars with plenty of features and a touch of sportiness. Does that make them equal? Not exactly. One goes the extra mile to win over buyers.

See a side-by-side comparison of the Cruze & Sonic »

What the Cruze Gets Right

Chevy redesigned the Cruze sedan last year, giving it greater visual identity and a more inviting interior. A hatchback version joins the lineup this year, offering up to 47.2 cubic feet of cargo space. Rear seat room approaches midsize levels, and certainly surpasses most compacts.

The Cruze starts out with a 1.4-liter four-cylinder turbo that produces 153 horsepower. A six-speed manual transmission comes standard, but most buyers choose the optional six-speed automatic. The Cruze gets up to 34 miles per gallon in combined city and highway driving, according to the EPA.

The optional 1.6-liter turbodiesel engine puts out 137 horsepower and boosts efficiency to 37 mpg combined, although that figure belies an impressive 52-mpg highway rating. The turbodiesel is available on the sedan for now. It will make its way into the hatchback next year.

What the Sonic Gets Right

The Sonic also comes in sedan and hatchback form. The latter can hold up to 47.7 cubic feet of cargo, about as much as the smallest crossovers. Despite its economical price, the Sonic comes standard with features like automatic headlamps, Bluetooth audio, and a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen.

There's certainly nothing downscale about how the Sonic handles. The steering is quick, with good feel and just the right mount of assist. The smaller Chevy stays planted when the pavement turns rough, soaking up bumps like a much heavier vehicle.

The 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 138 hp and up to 30 mpg in combined driving, while the optional 1.4-liter turbo increases efficiency to 32 mpg combined and provides more torque for faster take-offs.

Why Buy the Cruze if the Sonic Costs Less?

We admire how well the Sonic performs, especially with the turbocharged engine. The Cruze offers a similar level of driving enjoyment, plus a larger interior and even better efficiency. These are key benefits that most buyers will be happy to pay a little extra for.

Our Verdict: Chevrolet Cruze

Efficient and roomy, the Cruze doesn't require any compromises.

Take a closer look at the Chevrolet Cruze »

Take a closer look at the Chevrolet Sonic »

Both models received a complete redesign last year that made them more competitive than ever. But which Chevy delivers more of what buyers really care about?

See a side-by-side comparison of the Cruze & Malibu »

What the Cruze Gets Right

The Cruze is a substantial compact with fluid exterior lines and a polished interior. At 14.8 cubic feet, the sedan's trunk matches many midsize cars. Cargo space really opens up with the hatchback, which offers up to 47.2 cubic feet with the rear seat folded.

The standard 1.4-liter four-cylinder turbo produces a healthy 153 horsepower. Buyers can choose a six-speed manual transmission or optional six-speed automatic. With the automatic, the Cruze is EPA-rated at 34 mpg in combined city and highway driving. Sedan models are eligible for a 1.6-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder that puts out 137 horsepower and achieves a terrific 37 mpg in combined driving.

What the Malibu Gets Right

The Malibu rides on a longer wheelbase that permits a family-size rear seat and a touch more trunk space. We're impressed by the level of infotainment technology on display. So long as buyers pass up the stingy L model (and most do), they get standard features like voice controls, smartphone integration, four USB ports, and GM's Teen Driver monitoring system.

Power comes from a turbocharged, 1.5-liter four-cylinder with 160 horsepower, matched to a six-speed automatic transmission. The EPA gives the Malibu a rating of 27 mpg in city driving and a very impressive 37 mpg on the highway.

In top Premiere trim, the Malibu gets a 250-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbo and a nine-speed automatic. The larger engine provides the performance of a V6 and still manages 33 mpg on the highway.

Does the Cruze Measure Up?

The Cruze comes about as close to midsize as it can get without compromising its efficiency. In fact, the smaller Chevy only trails the Malibu in one significant measure: rear seat room. That might not seem like a big deal, but buyers who want the full family sedan experience will be more at home with the Malibu.

Our Verdict: Chevrolet Cruze

The Cruze has enough strong points that a big backseat doesn't have to be one of them.

Take a closer look at the Chevrolet Cruze »

Take a closer look at the Chevrolet Malibu »

Buyers who take performance seriously will walk away impressed by either of these machines. But which one comes closer to our idea of high-speed perfection?

See a side-by-side comparison of the Corvette & Camaro »

What the Camaro Gets Right

Available as a coupe or soft-top convertible, the Camaro comes standard with a turbocharged, 2.0-liter four-cylinder that delivers a robust 275 horsepower. That’s enough to make the base model appropriately quick, while earning up to 31 mpg on the highway, according to the EPA. The optional 3.6-liter V6 gives the Camaro a boost to 335 horsepower. SS models receive a mighty 6.2-liter V8 with 455 horsepower. At the top of the lineup, the ZL1 packs a supercharged 6.2-liter that lays down 650 horsepower. All engines come standard with a six-speed manual transmission. A six-speed automatic is optional on all models except the ZL1, which can get a special 10-speed automatic.

Buyers looking for a sporty personal car will be satisfied with either the four-cylinder turbo or V6 engine. The SS is a good fit for traditional muscle car fans and buyers who aren't concerned with efficiency. The exclusive ZL1 is a serious performance car that's designed for competitive driving. Buyers with racing ambitions will love the ZL1, but it feels like overkill on ordinary roads. A track-focused 1LE trim, available on the V6 and SS, strikes a nice middle ground between daily livability and the ZL1's circuit-ready performance.

What the Corvette Gets Right

The Corvette's mouth-watering body and high-tech cockpit can produce chills before the driver even turns the key. Under the vented hood is a 6.2-liter V8 good for 455 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. A seven-speed manual transmission with active rev matching comes standard, and an eight-speed automatic is optional. The line-topping Z06 model shares the Camaro ZL1's supercharged, 6.2-liter, 650-hp V8. All versions of the Corvette are available in coupe or convertible form.

We expected the Corvette to go fast and grip the road with gusto, but its civilized side came as a pleasant surprise. The seats are remarkably comfortable, even after hours of driving. The adaptive suspension allows the driver to soften the ride for highway travel or leisurely touring, making the Corvette easy to live with on a daily basis, despite its ferocious performance potential.

The Best of Both

With its choice of engines and handling hardware, the Camaro can be driven and enjoyed by all types of drivers. Those who aren't interested in jaw-dropping performance don't have to pay for it, but it's readily available to those who can't live without it. The Corvette comes ready to rumble right out of the box, but its appeal doesn't end there. Buyers also get a relaxing interior and refined road manners for days away from the track.

Our Verdict: Chevrolet Corvette

Fast and sophisticated, the Corvette gives drivers more to love than just performance.

Take a closer look at the Chevrolet Corvette »

Take a closer look at the Chevrolet Camaro »

Both cars perform utter precision and pamper to Cadillac standards. But which one offers the best of both worlds?

See a side-by-side comparison of the ATS & CTS »

What the ATS Gets Right

Cadillac designed the rear-drive ATS from the ground up to be lean and nimble. With the lowest curb weight in its class and near-perfect weight distribution, the ATS handles aggressively without losing its composure. When spirited driving isn't on the agenda, the ATS settles into a proper luxury car with a ride that's firm but not punishing, and a reasonably quiet cabin.

The ATS starts out with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that delivers 272 horsepower to the rear wheels. Enthusiasts might want to stick with the standard six-speed manual transmission, but most buyers spring for the optional eight-speed automatic. The automatic is mandatory with the available 3.6-liter V6, which gives the ATS a boost to 333 hp. Both engines are available with all-wheel drive.

What the CTS Gets Right

The CTS sits firmly in the midsize luxury class, which means there's more room for legs and elbows, and a higher level of interior craftsmanship on display. The CTS still feels sporty inside, like a high-tech performance car with a decorator's touch.

The CTS can get the same 2.0-liter turbo or V6 engine as the ATS, although the manual transmission doesn't make the cut. An eight-speed automatic sends power to the rear axle, or to all four wheels via an optional all-wheel-drive system.

The other engine choice is a twin-turbo 3.6-liter V6, available on the VSport trim, that stirs up 420 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque. The twin-turbo gets a specially tuned eight-speed automatic and is rear-drive only.

Boredom Isn't an Option

We have no problem affixing the sport sedan label to either car. Both are rewarding to drive and exciting to a point. The key difference is one of character. The ATS comes off as a scrappy contender that's eager to play. The CTS is the poised grown-up of the pair, content to cruise or rumble as the driver wants.

Our Verdict: Cadillac CTS

The CTS is a Renaissance luxury sedan, adept at any role it's asked to fill.

Take a closer look at the Cadillac ATS »

Take a closer look at the Cadillac CTS »

Which upscale four-door impresses us more with its performance and luxury?

See a side-by-side comparison of the Regal & LaCrosse »

What the Regal Gets Right

Most Regals come with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four cylinder with 259 horsepower, more than most entry-level luxury cars. (A non-turbo four-cylinder is used on the seldom-ordered base model only.) All models receive a six-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive is optional on the top trim levels. The sporty GS version of the Regal comes with selectable driving modes, Brembo brakes, and a sport-tuned suspension.

The pleasant interior comes generously equipped form the start. All models get leather upholstery, heated front seats with driver power, satellite radio, and Buick's sophisticated IntelliLink infotainment interface.

What the LaCrosse Gets Right

The LaCrosse looks dramatically different this year, even if a few traditional styling cues remain. The new design has a muscular, high-dollar vibe that actually makes this Buick seem exotic. Inside, the sweeping lines and interesting finishes add real excitement to the driving experience. There are practical changes, too, like a bigger trunk and standard smartphones compatibility.

The LaCrosse carries GM's familiar 3.6-liter V6, now with 310 hp, and an eight-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive remains available as an option on the upper trims. Buick has reworked the suspension and steering for better stability in curves and sudden maneuvers.

Not Just a Matter of Size Anymore

In past years, interior space was the key difference between these models. Buyers who didn't need a big rear seat went with the Regal, and those who wanted a traditionally sized Buick chose the LaCrosse. The decision isn't so simple now that the LaCrosse has been to finishing school. It scores just as highly in poise and sophistication as it does in passenger comfort.

Our Verdict: Buick LaCrosse

The new LaCrosse sets a new standard of quality for Buick.

Take a closer look at the Buick Regal »

Take a closer look at the Buick LaCrosse »

Dubbed Lexus Cash, shoppers can expect to find rebates worth up to $2,500 on select models. Alternatively, we're seeing cheaper finance rates and lease deals on some of the brand's bestsellers.

So what's unusual about these offers? Who's eligible and what are the rules? And are there better deals? Here's what you need to know.

Note: Offers listed here assume a Southern California location unless noted otherwise.

Offer Details

Through March 31, Lexus is offering cashback worth between $1,000 and $2,500 on some of its bestselling models. The largest amounts are on vehicles like the CT 200h, GS sedans and flagship LS 460.

That said, even hot sellers like the NX and RX crossovers are eligible. If you can believe it, performance-oriented nameplates like the GS F and RC F feature a $2,000 discount. See below for a full list.

Called Lexus Cash, the offer is similar to most cashback incentives from other automakers. Shoppers can choose to take the discount or opt for low-interest financing.

In most cases, finance rates are up to a full percentage point better than last month. Most models now feature 1.9% APR for up to 72 months.

Our Analysis

This month's offers are completely different from before. After the automaker's December to Remember sale ended, most cashback offers were canceled entirely. Rates also climbed to 2.9% APR on most models. The use of cash incentives is itself rather unusual, at least with Lexus.

Last August, the brand unveiled rebates for the first time in a bid to attract luxury shoppers. We had seen similar offers from BMW and Audi, but Lexus had been relatively silent. The other major player, Mercedes-Benz, has used large unadvertised dealer cash incentives for years to enable aggressive pricing.

Offers from Lexus typically favor one category of deal over another. It's either a large rebate, a good finance rate, or a great lease. This month, we're seeing a better offer for all three.

Lease prices have been cut quite a bit, as much as $50/month in the case of the Lexus GS. That's a huge month-over-month change when it comes to leases.

In fact, the 2017 CT 200h ranks as one of the best deals on a hybrid at the moment and is actually cheaper to lease than a 2017 Toyota Prius Two when comparing effective costs ($291 vs. $305).

Eligible 2017 Lexus Models

Note: Current offers expire March 31

See more of this month's best Lexus deals »

As a result, we're seeing some rather insane lease deals this month. In some cases, these rank among the cheapest you're bound to find on a new car or SUV.

So what does the deal involve? Who's eligible for the discount? And what sort of leases should you expect to find right now? Here's what you need to know.

Note: Offers listed here assume a Southern California location unless noted otherwise.

Offer Details

Through March 31, most Chevy leases are eligible for a $3,000 lease conquest bonus. Nearly all 2017 models are eligible, with notable exclusions being the Corvette, Silverado HD, Bolt EV, Spark and Sonic 4-Door.

To get the deal, simply show proof that you currently lease a 2011 or newer vehicle from any of the following brands: Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Scion, Subaru or Toyota.

The deal can be transferred between members of the same household and doesn't require you to trade-in your current vehicle. Although it can't be combined with all incentives, it has resulted in some stellar lease deals.

For example, the 2017 Chevy Cruze LT Sedan can now be leased from $99 for 24 months with just $219 due at signing. With an effective cost of $108/month, this ranks as the cheapest lease out of over 470 deals we looked at this month.

The 2017 Equinox LS is another unbelievable value at $109 for 24 months with $549 due at signing. With an effective cost of $132, this is the cheapest SUV lease at the moment. Sadly, the redesigned 2018 Equinox isn't eligible for this month's bonus.

Our Analysis

Although so-called conquest incentives aren't rare, it's unusual for automakers to target a whole category of brands in a manner like this. The closest thing we've seen to this is when luxury brands target direct competitors.

In most cases, conquest discounts from GM are extremely broad and often cover current lessees or owners of any 2008 or newer non-GM vehicle. We've seen amounts as high as $2,000, but never as big as this.

Certain models benefit more than others. For example, the Camaro and Volt both now offer 6 times the amount of lease conquest cash that GM was advertising last month ($3,000 vs. $500).

We can't guarantee this month's offer will continue past March. If you're eligible and are looking for a particularly affordable lease, you may want to pounce on this while you still can.

Eligible Models

Yes, you read that correctly. The iconic 911 sports car could get electrified, the brand's head of sales, Detlev von Platen, told Reuters last week at the Geneva Motor Show. Along with an all-electric version of the Macan SUV and the upcoming production version of the Mission E electric concept, Porsche is apparently pursuing a number of avenues for electrification.

But von Platen does not envision electrified models taking the place of the traditional four and six-cylinder powered sports cars just yet. He thinks they could be sold alongside the traditional models as the e-Hybrid versions of the Cayenne and Panamera do.

Whatever routes Porsche takes, expect to see the results sometime around 2020. But those who want to have their sports car emit as few emissions as possible should stay tuned to what Porsche has in the works, as the company is under pressure to produce more electric cars and help parent VW prove it has changed its ways regarding emissions.

Volvo's US head Lex Kerssemakers told Automotive News last week at the Geneva Motor Show the automaker would bring an electric vehicle with a range of at least 250 miles and a starting price of between $35,000 and $40,000 to market. That would put Volvo right in the path of the Bolt, before federal and state incentives. The upcoming Tesla Model 3 is also expected to be priced from $35,000 before incentives, with a range of 215 miles.

What's less certain is what the new model will be called and whether it will be based on the upcoming XC60 crossover or a smaller to-be-announced model. It's likely that Volvo's EV will take the form of an SUV rather than a car, since it's what most buyers want these days.

Volvo's approach also appears to be more in line with making a long-distance EV rather than a vehicle that simply complies with emissions regulations. While electric range is improving, models such as the Nissan Leaf and Volkswagen e-Golf are still around the 100-125 mile range, which is enough for most daily commutes, but not enough to serve as a primary vehicle for many households. A 250-mile EV, especially one with fast charging, could convince buyers to look at electric cars differently – as Chevrolet has done with the Bolt.

Expect to see Volvo's first all-electric model in 2019.

Although it's a good bet that prices will be high to start, Audi is already offering a handful of finance and loyalty incentives on the redesigned luxury crossover.

So what kinds of offers can you expect to see? Are they any good? And is there a compelling case to buy the outgoing model year?

Here's what you need to know.

Offer Details

For those looking to finance, Audi is offering 2.9% APR for up to 66 months on all versions of the 2018 Q5 and SQ5. That may not sound terribly impressive, but it's the same deal you'll find on most other Audis, including the 2017 Q5.

There's also a loyalty bonus for anyone who owns or leases any 2005 or newer Audi model. If you finance through Audi Financial, you'll get a $750 bonus. If you don't, you'll get a smaller $500 discount. If you love your current car, don't worry— the offer doesn't require you to trade it in.

Unfortunately, Audi isn't currently offering a conquest bonus for shoppers coming from another brand. Called the Audi Acquisition Program, it involves a bonus ranging from $500 to $2,000 for those with a 2005 or newer vehicle from Acura, BMW, Infiniti, Lexus or Mercedes-Benz.

If you're currently leasing an Audi and have a contract that's set to mature soon, some dealers are also offering so-called lease pull-ahead incentives that will waive up to 3 remaining payments to help you get into your next vehicle a little faster.

Current offers are set to expire March 31, 2017.

Deals on Last Year's Model

If you'd prefer to snatch up the outgoing 2017 Q5, you're in luck. In addition to 2.9% APR for 66 months, Audi is offering a $1,250 bonus. You'll also be eligible for a $750 loyalty bonus, or a $750 conquest discount for coming from one of the brands listed above.

Altogether, that's $2,000 in combined offers on top of the finance incentive. We rarely see offers this generous on Audi's crossover models. If you aren't keen on paying a premium for the latest version, now is a great time to buy while the selection is still good.

Leases vary quite a bit between each dealer. A local offer here in Los Angeles on the 2017 Q5 quattro Premium Plus starts from $499 for 36 months with $2,793 due at signing. With an effective cost of $577 per month, this ranks as a mediocre value.

Will we see more aggressive deals in the months ahead? That may end up being the case, but shoppers should be aware that by then selection may have dwindled down to less desirable vehicle colors and configurations.

Learn more about the 2018 Audi Q5 »

The US Department of Transportation on Friday said a record 53.2 million vehicles were recalled in the country last year, besting a 2015 record by more than two million, and the third straight year recalls topped more than 50 million vehicles, according to Reuters and Automotive News. Yet the abnormally high numbers of recalled vehicles in recent years comes from more investigations by federal officials.

Most of the 2016 recalls centered around the Takata airbag scandal, which has implicated more than 40 million vehicles and resulted in more than a dozen deaths worldwide, many in vehicles more than a decade old. The continuing investigation by a number of agencies into Takata means recalls connected to that airbag problem are likely to continue into 2017 and 2018.

Since modern vehicles have so many parts built by so many different companies, some analysts expect this to be the new normal for recalls until automakers can put more pressure on their suppliers to raise testing and quality standards. Some recalls are relatively minor and do not results in crashes, injuries or deaths. But scandals involving ignition switches, emissions systems, and airbags have shed new light on vehicle safety.

BMW is recalling almost 122,000 2011-2013 X5s and 2011-2014 X6s in the US because of faulty universal joints that could break over time and stop power going to all four wheels, according to The Car Connection. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration has been investigating the problem in other BMW models since last year and the recall has since been expanded by BMW to include more X5s and X6s.

If the joint is faulty, it could break and stop the four-wheel-drive system from being able to send power to the front wheels. While power to the rear wheels would continue, it could have bad long-term affects on other mechanical parts that could eventually leave the car inoperable, according to the federal government. Drivers should be aware of any noise or vibration coming from the front of the vehicle, which would indicate the joint has possibly broken.

The vehicles affected are specifically the 2011-2013 X5 xDrive35i, xDrive35d, xDrive50i and X5M models; 2011-2014 X6 xDrive 35i, xDrive50i, X6M and X6 ActiveHybrid.

Owners should receive recall notices in the mail by April 24, according to BMW. In the meantime, they can call the automaker's customer service line at 1-800-525-7417, or the NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236, regarding safety campaign #17V138000.

If you think the notion of calling a car the 86 860 Special Edition is unusual, you're probably not alone. However, there appears to be a reason for this. According to Auto Guide, Toyota will only produce 860 copies of each of only two available colors.

The first is called Halo, which is already available on the current car and is essentially an off-white. The second color option is new and will be exclusive to the Special Edition called Supernova. It's a deep orange, which, coupled with optional dual stripe graphics, offers a decidedly more aggressive look.

Under the hood, the SE will be exactly the same as the monospec car with a 205 hp engine with the six-speed manual gearbox, or a 200 hp mill when paired with the optional six-speed automatic. Like the base car, the automatic features steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters and rev matching.

Most of the key differences will be in the details. Order guides reveal the exterior of the new SE will get standard fog lights, a rear spoiler and distinctive 17-inch aluminum "Super Black High Luster" wheels.

Auto Guide reports shoppers will be treated to leather seats with orange contrast stitching, dual-climate control and push-button start. Leather has thus far not been an option on the entry-level 86, and has instead been a selling point for upgrading to the Subaru BRZ Limited.

Pricing is set to start at $30,040 with destination for the manual transmission and $30,760 with the automatic. This equates to a $2,900 premium over the base car which starts at $27,140 with the manual and $27,860 with the automatic.

For reference, a baseline Subaru BRZ Premium starts at $26,315 and extends as high as $30,515 for the limited-production Series.Yellow variant. Key competitors such as the Ford Mustang and Chevy Camaro start at $26,085 and $26,900, respectively.

The 860 Special Edition is expected to begin arriving at dealers within the next month.

According to Mazda spokesperson Jacob Brown, the manual will no longer be sold in the U.S. It will, however, continue in Canada and Mexico. When asked whether or not a manual would be an option with the new CX-5 diesel set to go on sale later this year, Mr. Brown answered "anything is possible, but not at this time."

The outgoing CX-5 has seen its share of changes. Mazda took the unusual step of making a half-year revision known as the "2016.5 CX-5" in late 2015. First reported by CarsDirect, the update added a backup camera with 7-inch touchscreen to the roster of standard equipment on the entry-level Sport, as well as navigation on Touring and Grand Touring models.

The 2.0-liter manual was only offered on the baseline CX-5 Sport from $22,695 with destination. Ads were able to tout attractive prices as low as $21,795 before freight. For reference, the 2017 RAV4 is priced from $25,870 with destination. Perhaps more important than price, the absence of a manual could come as a shock to some Mazda enthusiasts.

Will most shoppers notice? Maybe not. According to Mr. Brown, the manual CX-5 accounted for less than 5% of configurations that customers ending up choosing. Even the more diminutive CX-3 and three-row CX-9 don't offer a manual here in the States.

The 2017 CX-5 is slated to start at a price point that's $2,290 higher than before with an MSRP of $24,985 with the standard 2.5-liter SKYACTIV engine and six-speed automatic. That said, with a wealth of new tech like standard Smart City Brake Support and the full suite of assistance features available on upper trims, the CX-5 will arguably be offering a lot for the money.

Those accustomed to rowing their own gears may be forced to consider alternatives like the Subaru Forester (from $23,470 with manual) and redesigned Jeep Compass (from $22,090 with manual). Although the new Compass is expected soon, we've spotted Sign & Drive leases on the Forester starting from just $259/month.

If you're anxious to snatch up the outgoing CX-5, you're in luck. This month, Mazda doubled its cashback incentive to $1,000. Owners of the brand can get a $500 loyalty bonus for $1,500 in combined savings. Alternatively, you can opt to finance at 0% APR for 60 months, or lease from as little as $219/month. Offers begin expiring March 31.

Will the absence of a manual influence your next purchase decision? Let us know in the comments.

For more in-depth analysis of pricing and deals, please visit our Deals page.