By Ian Strachan.
Mazda’s compact SUV – the excellent CX-5 – has had a makeover. Now in its third generation it’s got even better. More space, a re-designed interior, and more technology have added considerably to this vehicle’s appeal.
The CX-5 combines the performance and handling of a sports car with the stability and size of a compact sports utility. It’s available in two or four wheel drive. I tested the two-wheel drive version in Centre-Line spec.
This gives you an adept, attractive vehicle with a tough appearance and a stable ride, without breaking the bank. It’s also a good towing vehicle and has won awards for its towing abilities.
All models of this Mazda CX-5 are powered by a potent 2.5 litre petrol engine delivering brisk, sporty performance. This unit gives a 141 bhp output and can propel you from 0-60 mph in just over 10 seconds. In normal driving the engine is quiet, though it can get a tad raucous under pressure.
The CX-5 uses electronics which combine advanced engine, transmission and chassis technology to improve efficiency and environmental performance. You can safely buy this vehicle without putting the planet too much at risk, but a hybrid version is on the cards soon.
The CX-5 handles remarkably well, with an intelligent drive system backed up with long travel independent suspension. Cornering is sure footed with no body roll, and the suspension set up ensures a comfortable ride. The car is exceptionally well put together and feels solid.
The engine provides decent performance throughout the speed range, delivering power smoothly but with plenty of mid-range pull. All CX-5s come with a six speed automatic transmission. Fuel consumption is respectable, giving you 40.4 mpg in mixed driving.
The interior is well laid out and spacious with plenty of room for five adults. Trim materials are of a high quality, with artificial leather and suede seats. The front seats are heated and the driver’s seat has powered adjustment with memory. Many of the physical buttons of earlier CX-5s have been replaced by touch buttons, which ca be fiddly to use on the move.
The improved 583 litre luggage area, with underfloor stowage, can be further improved to a huge 2019 litres with the ability to fold the rear seats flat. On the this spec you get a powered tailgate.
Equipment levels are generous. Standard features on the 2.5 litre 141ps 2WD Centre-Line include smart 19 inch machined black alloys, a good DAB radio and sound system with MP3 compatibility, wireless Apple CarPlay and smartphone connection, a clear navigation system with a 12.9 colour touchscreen display, steering wheel-mounted controls, keyless entry and ignition, front and rear parking sensors with a reversing camera,, an excellent dual-zone climate control system, heated steering wheel, and electric windows all round.
You also get LED adaptive headlights with daytime running lights, blind spot monitoring, lane keeping assist, radar cruise control and powered sunroof.
This is a solid and enjoyable vehicle that will attract attention for the right reasons. In 141ps 2.5 litre 2WD Centre-Line spec it has an on-the-road price of £34,050. Metallic Navy Blue paint adds £700. You get a lot of car for your money with this Mazda, plus dependable residual values. This is a good, well-specified, high quality vehicle which is a pleasure to drive.
