Review by Veeno Dewan
Visually, Mazda’s CX-5 is still one of the best in the compact crossover segment. Mazda’s Kodo design language combines edgy futurism with classic shapes without the need for gimmicky flourishes. For 2023 the CX-5 and receives a mild revamp with a revised front end, with a new bumper and new signature ‘wing’ that extends outward from the front grille. The rear features new bumper and tailgate designs that are complemented by larger dual tailpipes. The headlights and taillights now have a pair of horizontally spaced, rectangular LED lights.
Engine choices include a naturally aspirated SKYACTIVE 2.5-liter inline-four with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. There is an optional SKYACTIVE 2.5-liter turbocharged cylinder unit producing 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is optional. Fuel economy is rated at City: 10.8 (L/100 km) Highway: 8.7.
Interior wise, a 10.3-inch screen now sits atop the dashboard, replacing a smaller 7.0-inch display. The updated system features the new Mazda Connect interface, Mazda Connected Services (a Wi-Fi hotspot and access to remote vehicle functions through a smartphone app), and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The new interface is controlled via the rotary controller and volume knob on the center console as well as voice commands and buttons on the steering wheel.
With Skyactiv Technology Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warning systems. Options include Adaptive cruise control is also included along with automatic reverse braking and a driver inattention warning system. Optional safety equipment included i-ACTIVSENSE safety technology, front and rear parking sensors, wide-angle rear-view camera, and LED headlights with lighting signature.
The top-of -the – line versions include the Signature model as tested at Available has a revised 2.5 turbo four-cylinder that now delivers 256 hp on 93 octanes, an increase of six horsepower from the previous model year, plus 320 lb-ft of torque. On regular 87 octane, the engine provides 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. Turbo models also receive paddle shifters. The exterior adds: Signature wing grille surround with bright finish, Body-coloured front and rear bumper, Body-coloured wheel arches and rocker trim and larger exhaust outlets and more. Upgraded interior trim bits, plus a higher-definition 360-degree camera, a driver-attention alert, and rear automated emergency braking are also part of the Signature package has 10-speaker, Bose, Surround Sound, 7.00-inch, Colour, Touchscreen, Voice Activating System, Audio, Phone, Carplay, Android, USB, Bluetooth, AM/FM, Satellite Radio, Wireless Charging Pad, Navigation, and head-up Display
Interior wise the Signature model has a neat, well- detailed cabin that has a sporty theme. The slick looking black leather seats are offset by plenty of shiny chrome and metal trim. Cocoa Nappa leather-trimmed upholstery and Abachi wood-trimmed dash, front, and rear door panels. The controls are simple, the gauges clear and there is a seamless uncluttered look to the dash. The front seats are roomy with good ergonomics and range of adjustment. The new Mazda’s tech interface is nicely improved and quicker to use. The rear cabin is smallish, and seats two adults in comfort, but three will be a squeeze. The CX-5 has 30.9 cubic feet of space behind the rear seat with the second row of seats down and there’s a maximum of 59.6 cubic feet of space available with the second row folded.
On the road, the 2.5L engines twin sequential dual turbochargers ensure there is plenty of acceleration and a wide power band of usable torque, especially in the mid – range. There is a wonderfully linear, quick, and crisp acceleration with minimal turbo lag. Occupants are also well insulated from rough roads thanks to the improvements to the CX-5’s suspension reducing noise, vibration, and harshness. Then revised damping also increases comfort, but at the expense of agility. Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control system also adds refinement to the performance with sharpened handling adding some downforce on the front tires during cornering, keeping understeer to a minimum. As mentioned earlier, all-wheel drive is now standard throughout and offers superb grip. By the way, traction control is standard along with Dynamics Stability Control. Not much to complain about, room in the CX-5 is about average in this segment, not quite as spacious as most of its competitors, and the six-speed automatic transmission errs more to performance than fuel economy.
Overall, the CX-5 is a competitive CUV and has a great interior luxury and offers excellent features. Well worth considering if you are in the market for a fun to drive, nice looking compact CUV that offers superb value for money. Highly recommended.
2023 Mazda CX – 5 Priced from $32,200. Signature model as tested – $44,250 plus options and delivery. More info at : www.mazda.ca
