Facelifted Mazda CX-5 introduced in Australia

KUALA LUMPUR: The 2019 Mazda CX-5 lands in Australia. It comes with a turbocharged petrol option, accompanied by an enhanced range of equipment levels, and interior specification upgrades across the board. In Aussieland, the admirers of the country’s best-selling medium SUV need to pay a handsome amount of AU$49,170 (RM149,500 approx) for the Akera variant and AU$46,970 (RM142,900 approx) for the GT one.

The refreshed Mazda CX-5 GT and Akera trim levels are now powered by a 2.5-litre turbocharged SkyActiv-G four-cylinder petrol engine with an all-wheel-drive mechanism. It generates a top power of 230 PS at 4,250 rpm and churns out a peak torque of around 420 Nm at 2,000 rpm. The powertrain is mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox. This new powertrain is an addition to the naturally-aspirated 2.5-litre and 2.0-litre petrol, and the 2.2-litre turbo SkyActiv-D diesel.

The range-topping Akera model has also been restyled and features smart additions. It runs on 19-inch dark-colored alloy wheels with glossy effects. The interior has dark red-coloured Nappa leather upholstery and real wood trim inserts. In addition to these, it has a 7.0-inch TFT driver's instrument display, LED ambient white lighting system across the cabin, adequately ventilated front seats, a special roof console etc.

The interior of the GT version bears metallic touch-ups and features revised LED number plate lighting, and climate control system. It runs on 17-inch steel wheels. The vehicle houses the Mazda's standard active safety tech suite, comprising adaptive cruise control, driver attention alert, automatic high-beam, lane-keep assist, driver fatigue monitor, smart brake support, and lane departure warning system.

The suspension system has been refined across the range. Each and every variant receives the brand’s G-Vectoring Control Plus system that can offer an extra dose of DYC (direct yaw moment) to help in maintaining the stability while straightening the steering wheel while exiting a corner. As part of the MZD Connect infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto have been considered across the model line-up.