LIFESTYLE
James Stinson
Fresh Tweaks for Popular Mazda CX-5 Evolution, not revolution, is the name of the game for Mazda’s latest CX-5, writes James Stinson.
but it works and is hopefully a sign of things to come with other models from Mazda. Depending on trim, customers can choose from either 2.0 litre (163bhp) or 2.5 litre (191bhp) petrol engines. There are a couple of diesels too. These aren’t terribly on trend at the minute but shouldn’t be discounted, especially if you plan to do some serious towing and/or mileage. Economy is decent with the petrols delivering claimed mpg in the low 40s while the diesels deliver high 40s mpg.
T
he CX-5 has been one of Mazda’s best-selling cars since it was launched a decade ago, accounting for around 25% of sales. Buyers like the CX-5’s classy styling, upmarket feel and solid engineering.
Predicted to be the biggest seller in the UK, the Sport model is offered with a choice of 163bhp Skyactiv-G petrol or 148bhp and 181bhp Skyactiv-D diesels. The higher-output diesel is offered with a choice of front or all-wheel drive. Matched exclusively to an automatic gearbox, this 181bhp Skyactiv-D AWD Sport is the entry point of Mazda’s i-Activ all-wheel drive system.
Still, the SUV market is a crowded one so you rest on your laurels at your peril. This latest 2022 model variant features a host of little tweaks, ironing out some of the few imperfections of the previous car.
Inside, the cabin is the usual Mazda fare. The seating position is excellent with good all-round visibility. There’s loads of space in the rear and a sizeable 512-litre boot. The controls are easy to navigate and the interior solid, high-end and comforting. The ride on the old car could be a little harsh and is now more accommodating and better matched for everyday driving.
There are more stand-out styling options designed to broaden the car’s appeal. The ride is more comfortable, with improved suspension and new, more supportive seats that are claimed to “reduce fatigue”. The cabin too is even more pleasant with road noise greatly reduced. The CX-5 line-up features five trim levels: SE-L, Newground, Sport, Sport Black and GT Sport. The rather unusually named Newground is the one that really catches the eye.
It’s not a cheap car but does come with plenty of kit. The aforementioned Sport version features 19-inch alloys, a reversing camera, an electric sunroof, electrically adjustable front seats and a powered tailgate as standard.
It features a more rugged look with front and rear silver underguard trims matched to silver lower body side skirts, black door mirrors and 19-inch black diamond-cut alloy wheels.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across the range as is wireless phone charging and a new safety feature – Cruise and Traffic Support (CTS) – that helps reduce driver fatigue by assisting with accelerator, brake pedal and steering operations when stuck in traffic jams.
Subtle lime green accents in the grille are replicated inside with lime green air vent louver trims, while the Newground’s black half-leatherette seats have matching green piping. The boot even features a reversible waterproof floor, while the Newground can be specified in a highly distinctive new Zircon Sand metallic paint colour (pictured).
Entry level prices begin at £28,175 with the Sport trim starting at £30,795. The range tops out close to £40k for the all-wheel drive GT Sport with the more powerful diesel motor.
This new focus on colourful individual styling touches is a departure
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06/05/2022 14:02
