It's quite entertaining to read all the CR-V vs CX-5 on different threads during the last few days
Although the two cars are direct competitors of the same segment, I think they're somewhat apple to orange as they have different target audiences.
If you can't feel and appreciate the design beauty and the fun in driving a Mazda, or if you can't even tell the different "feels" between the two cars, the CR-V is probably a better choice. And that's OK, as Mazda has stated repeatedly that they don't target everyone:
http://www.mediapost.com/publications/article/295007/mazda-aims-to-convey-its-maturity-quality.html
So yes, in some way the proud CX-5 owners are acting like fanboys defending something that the practical users can't reason with, but that something (driving matters) is the core of Mazda, and thus making it a higher priority in picking a car. Luckily we don't have to compromise too much for that priority, as the CX-5 is at least on par with other CUVs in most aspects. It's this priority that made Mazda invested in G-Vectoring and better AWD instead of having a bigger touch screen or a kick sensor to open the tailgate.
It's OK to have different opinions. From dissapointed owners to enthusiasts, that's what makes the forum great to have different perspectives.