Mazda CX-5

Overview

Launched for the first time back in 2012, the Mazda CX-5 is a compact crossover which is positioned right in the middle of the entry-level CX-3 and full-size CX-7 crossovers in Mazda’s lineup for Malaysia. Launched first as a replacement model for the Mazda Tribute, the CX-5 is one very important vehicle for Mazda, for the fact that it was the first car to feature “KODO” design language (an all-new design theme for new generation Mazdas) as well as Skyactiv technology for rigid and lightweight platform – two of the most important technologies for Mazda in today’s times.

Interior & Features

Unlike the curvaceous exterior, the interior of the Mazda CX-5 focuses more on sharp creases and lines rather than curves. The overall cabin has a good mix of all black elements with leather and faux dark wood theme running in the midst of the dashboard.

In a typical Mazda fashion, the steering wheel has a round theme, which comes integrated with buttons for audio, telephony and cruise controls on it. The instrument panel behind the steering wheel is designed rather plainly, with three individual dials for speedometer, tachometer and MID screen, which shows fuel gauge and other real-time drive details.

The pentagonal shaped AC vents with faux aluminum surround look nice and unique, while the Audi-like popped-up 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system provides you with all the essentials including supports for Bluetooth, reverse camera and navigation. The center console looks quite minimalist with small circular buttons for climate control, however, the large transmission tunnel with premium chrome touches for gear lever and drive mode selector feel premium.

The overall space and comfort levels are quite good, however, the rear headroom is slightly compromised for the coupe-like roofline. And being a premium crossover, the Mazda CX-5 is loaded with features, the most noteworthy of which include push-button start with keyless entry, 6 speakers, 4 USB ports, leather upholstery, 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat, manually adjustable passenger seat, 40/20/40 split rear seats, tilt and telescopic adjustable steering wheel, electrically adjustable and foldable rear view mirrors, dual zone climate control, rear AC vents, rain sensing wipers and auto headlamps.

Exterior

Unlike the conventional crossovers, the Mazda CX-5 has a curvaceous and aerodynamic design which makes it quite a looker, if not bulky and muscular. The overall design has nice and smooth curves which make it in line with its other family members from Mazda.

Starting from the front, the Mazda CX-5 has a huge and wide open-mouth like the grille, which has a nice chrome garnish below it. This chrome garnish extends all the way to the sides, above the ends of which are positioned sleek and long full LED headlamps, which are placed just adjacent to the grille on both sides. The LED fog lamps inserted on the front bumper look stylish and distinctive as well. This complete fascia gives the CX-5 a unique frontal look.

The side profile of the Mazda CX-5 has noticeable curves, which are extending all the way from the front fender to the rear, which along with the coupe-like roofline, makes it look curvy rather than boxy. The door mounted rear view mirrors, as well as chrome beltline below the windows, add in some sporty and premium appeal to it. However, the biggest eye-catching detail here is the presence of large 19-inch diamond cut alloy wheels, which along with the low slung styling of the overall car, make the CX-5 look beautiful.

It is at the rear where the drama of the overall design of the CX-5 is in its least form. The rear hatch has fewer details, however, the large cavity like profile around the number plate place make the CX-5 look distinctive. Like the front headlamps, the rear tail lamps have a sleek design and come with an LED layout. The sharply raked rear windshield again reminds you of the fact that it is more of a crossover than an SUV.

Ride & Handling

With a suspension setup of McPherson struts at the front and Multi-link suspension at the rear as well as disc brakes all around – front ventilated and rear solid, the overall ride quality of the Mazda CX-5 is slightly on the plusher side, which gives it more car-like trait in terms of ride and handling, rather than an SUV. The body roll is very well controlled thanks to large 19-inch wheels and low center of gravity, with the ground clearance of 193 mm too being helpful here on that front. And thanks to the G-Vectoring control technology, the CX-5 handles like a charm.

Engine & Fuel Consumption

In terms of powertrain choices, Mazda is one manufacturer which doesn’t disappoint you in spoiling you with options. The Mazda CX-5 falls in the same category, for the crossover comes with two petrol and one diesel engine options.

Let’s start with petrol first. The smaller one here is a 2.0-litre unit which produces 162 bhp of power and 210 Nm of torque, while the bigger one of the two is a 2.5-litre mill which generates 192 bhp of power and 257 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the oil burner is a 2.2-litre diesel engine which pumps out 173 bhp of power and an impressive 420 Nm of torque.

All these engines are paired to a common 6-speed torque converter and get Mazda’s renowned i-stop idling technology, making the already powerful engine options even more driveable.  

Braking & Safety

The Mazda CX-5 is one crossover which doesn’t compromise on the safety front at all, for the vehicle is equipped with a very long list of safety features, which could shame even SUVs from one or two segments above.

The Mazda CX-5 has been blessed with safety features such as front, side and curtain airbags, ABS, EBD, Dynamic Stability Control, Emergency Brake Assist, traction control, emergency stop signal, electronic parking brake, hill start assist, ISOFIX mounts, adaptive front lighting system, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, lane departure warning system, lane keep assist system, driver attention alert, and smart city brake support.

Verdict

The Mazda CX-5 might not be the traditional SUV which one could expect, but then, it’s lifted stance with aerodynamic curvy design surely make it look big and premium, which is enough to make one’s head turn. One does get powerful engine options, which are complemented with Mazda’s traditionally brilliant ride and handling balance. And with a long list of safety features and rich-feel interiors, the Mazda CX-5 does appear to justify its premium price positioning.