The latest facelifted Mazda CX-5 introduces updates to the exterior as well as a change to the drivetrain. It offers drivers value for money particularly when compared to its nearest competitors, has a luxurious interior and it has an engaging drive.
When the current Mazda CX-5 first launched in South Africa seven years ago, it established itself as a firm favourite both within the Mazda line-up and on South African roads. Feedback on the SUV was also overwhelmingly positive. As I never had a chance to test the CX-5 previously, I was looking forward to driving the facelifted Mazda CX-5.
I was unfortunately, slightly disappointed with two aspects, one of which I admit I would never think I would complain about. While I understand that facelifts are mainly limited to aesthetic changes, I think updating aesthetics and neglecting certain technological aspects can potentially make it feel a bit dated.
The drive
The first, minor, disappointment was in the drive. The CX-5 ‘likes to be revved.’ When gaining speed, the revs can climb up to 5 000 or 6 000 RPMs. It is possible that the engine, without a turbo, is not quite big enough to handle the size of the vehicle. It is not a small SUV.
While late gear shifts is partially a personal preference, as I know some will not be bothered by this, I could not quite gain an affinity for it. In one instance, a vehicle cut me off on the highway and I lifted my foot slightly off the accelerator and when I returned it, the revs shot up faster than a beanstalk.
I genuinely expected the fuel consumption to be higher but was suitably impressed with the 8.2L/100km achieved by the end of the test period. This was with a mixture of highway and urban road driving. For the size of the vehicle and the tendency to rev well over 3 000 or 4000 RPMs this is nothing to be scoffed at.
The claimed consumption is 6.9L/100km. I believe my consumption could be significantly improved as I did not even use half a tank nor drive primarily on open highways. A consumption below 7L/100km, however, seems too hopeful.
It is a naturally aspirated 2.0 litre, 4-cylinder engine, petrol engine. This has a power output of 121 kW of power and 213 Nm of torque. This is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Revs aside, the rest of the drive was excellent. It handled with prowess and confidence. Gaining speed was easy and maintaining it is even easier. It definitely offers an engaging drive. The ride is also very comfortable. There are paddle shifts so you can control the gear changes if you want it to shift sooner. The Sport mode only seemed to delay gear shifts even longer and provide no extra power.
Updates to the 2022 model also include a new damping control system and more rigidity in the frame to decrease road noise and vibrations.
The tech
The second aspect that bothered me is something I would never have thought would. When selecting a vehicle, I often view technological advancements as a nice-to-have rather than essential. When I climbed in the CX-5 I kept touching the infotainment screen only to realise it was not a touchscreen.
Instead, you connect your phone, change functions, check data and everything else using a knob to enter and scroll. I kept forgetting it was not a touchscreen and found the knob more finicky. This is not to say it should not be there, knobs have an essential place like a quick change of volume, but a touchscreen is much more intuitive, and I genuinely missed it.
It also created such a contrasting experience. The interior is luxurious and most other tech is present, from electronically opening boots to electrically adjustable seats – but no touchscreen. It seems strange to neglect this update and makes the vehicle seem dated, yet, with the introduction of the CX-60 and a new CX-5 unlikely to happen, perhaps the expense did not seem warranted.
A downside to the CX-5 is the Blutooth disconnects each time you stop the car and does not restart. When you restart you must manually reconnect. Every. Single. Time.
There is a navigation function but you need a memory card for it to operate and it is just easier to use Maps via Android Auto or Apple Carplay.
Other tech included in the vehicle is a start button, Android Auto and Apple Carplay, remote entry (and exit using a button on the door handle), C-ports in the centre console, rear-view camera, 8-way electronically adjustable driver seat with lumbar support, leather seats, auto-folding mirrors, dual-zone climate control and auto wipers and lights.
Design updates
Exterior design aesthetic of the CX-5 aged quite well. Thus, updates are not major. A new colour has joined the 2022 line-up, Zircon Sand. Other updates can be seen in the bumpers and headlight and taillight clusters. The Carbon Edition derivative has larger alloy wheels and red interior stitching.
Inside the CX-5
The infotainment screen is also much smaller than what vehicles from recent years feature. This did not detract from efficacy at all and was possibly even better than larger ones that often catch the glare. It also adds to the elegant feel of the interior by not drawing too much attention.
One of my favourite aspects of the interior was the soft touch feel of the dash and other materials in the SUV. Along with the dark, leather interior the CX-5 exudes elegance and style.
Where the Mazda CX-5 outperforms many competitors is in its pricing. It has a good amount of tech even without the touchscreen infotainment system and its late gear changes likely will not bother many other drivers. Ultimately, it offers good value and the reliability of a Mazda, which are strong points in its favour.
Good to know
Specifications
Engine: 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, naturally aspirated engine
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Power: 121 kW
Torque: 213 Nm
Fuel consumption: 6.9L/100 km (claimed)
Price starting from: R493 100
Warranty and service plan: 3-year/unlimited km warranty and a 3-year/unlimited km service plan.
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