Likewise, I have a 2016 CX-5 GT without tow hooks. After questioning the dealer, I received the party line which is in your quote. Personally, the Japanese are too smart to make that quote. I have over 52 years of driving experience around the world and these hooks are essential equipment, especially for anyone with AWD. Moreover, I'm an airlifter with 25 years alf hauling cargo , pax, and vehicles around the world. Vehicles are winched onto other vehicles using the tow hook. No experienced or certified cargo loader would use the tow hook to tie down a vehicle because it provides no aft or lateral restraint. I insisted on a tow hook and Mazda sales purchased one for me after I ordered one for myself from Mazda Parts. I was told you'll pull the bumper off your car and I responded it's not attached to the bumper but the frame. No one at Mazda has ever been benched out of a ditch, snow bank, or onto a flat bed tow truck. Sometimes I wonder?