Most users would agree that Mazda has often been underappreciated compared to rivals such as Volkswagen and Nissan (and many others). The CX-5 is Mazda’s answer to rivals such as the Tiguan and the Peugeot 3008 in the SUV space, and it’s an important entry for the brand.
It has gained widespread popularity and accounts for millions of units sold around the world, including Australia.
The CX-5 uses the same basic platform as the very first generation, which came out in 2012. The wheelbase hasn’t changed much. However, it’s 35 mm lower and 10 mm longer and looks much sharper due to the renovated head and tail lights, broader grille, and a longer bonnet. This subtle yet important facelift makes the CX-5 look very stunning and properly desirable to drivers around the world.
So what does it feel like in terms of performance, driving, and interiors? Let’s find out in our honest review of the Mazda CX5.
Performance
Mazda is known for carefully avoiding turbochargers to improve the performance of its petrol engines. The 2021 iteration of the CX-5 carries on this tradition and comes with a 163bhp 2.0 Skyactiv G 165. This means that it will have more power than, the C5 Aircross with its 1.2 Puretech 130, but it’s not faster.
It’s a lot less flexible to drive because you’ll struggle to change gears very often. You can opt for the slightly faster 2.5 Skyactiv-G 194, which is quicker, albeit, at the cost of using much more fuel. It comes with an automatic gearbox as standard (so you won’t have to deal with the constant gear-changing).
It’s worth mentioning the 2.2 Skyactiv-D 150 diesel engine capable of 148 bhp. It can go from 0 to 62 mph in about 9.9 seconds.
Features and Interior
There is no shortage of luxury features you would get with the Mazda CX-5. It comes with auto-folding side mirrors, proximity key access, active cruise control, and an electric-powered tailgate.
In the interior, you’ll get dual-zone climate control, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, 7.0-inch computer, satellite navigation, and integration with CarPlay or Android Auto, among others.
The infotainment system is relatively easy to use, thanks to the touch screen. Mazda engineers have made sure drivers can only interact with the touchscreen when they are parked, but not when driving. While driving, you can use the dial controller mounted being the gear lever. You can twist it to scroll through menus and make selections.
You can tell that Mazda did a lot of thoughtful planning when designing the interior with premium materials. The majority of the surfaces feel soft to the touch. The Akera trim features Nappa leather trim, with the front seats electrically powered, heated, and ventilated.
Passenger Space
Mazda CX-5 comes with adequate space for taller adults. There is enough headroom and legroom for adults to sit comfortably without struggling for space. The front doors come with long storage pockets, a large cubbyhole, and a spacious glove box with sufficient room. Two cup holders between the seats can keep large coffee cups or water bottles.
You can fit two six-footers at the back of the Mazda CX-5 easily thanks to all the legroom.
Passengers at the rear seats can benefit from seat folding thanks to the two-stage reclining mechanism. The only problem is that the seats don’t slide back and forth, as they do with the Peugeot 5008.
Safety
The CX-5 is known to be one of the safest cars in Australia and has acquired an ANCAP rating of 5/5 stars. It receives high safety ratings from other organizations too, such as the IIHS and NHTSA. A host of safety features in the CX-5 are standard with trims, including rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist.
Verdict
The Mazda CX-5 remains to be a high-end SUV with a good selection of interior technology tools to improve the user experience. Despite being an SUV, it handles just like a car thanks to the well-optimized engine and suspension. We believe the SUV could have benefited from more boot space in the rear seats, which would have made it the obvious choice for Austrian families.
Do we recommend drivers to buy one? We would strongly consider buying the CX-5 if you’re in the market for a semi-luxurious product that gets the job done. Similar options in the market include Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson, Toyota RAV4, Ford Kuga, and Vauxhall Grandland X, each with its own set of pros and cons.
