In terms of technology, Mazda cars are often a bit off the mainstream. The same goes for the CX-5, which bucks many a trend - but in a refreshing way. Despite a large number of classic solutions, time has not stood still in the compact SUV.
The CX-5 has been one of the most important sales pillars in Mazda's European business for many years. But the compact SUV was introduced in its current form in 2017 and has been renovated several times since then, albeit carefully. So the five-door is showing its age, which has its appeal in many respects. Instead of touching up the cockpit, giant displays, downsizing and charging, Mazda relies on classic solutions. Compared to many competitors, this seems outdated, but time in the CX-5 has not stood still.
Its appearance seems even superior to short-lived fashions. The Japanese doesn't overdo it with beading and bling-bling. A sharp look from modernized matrix LED headlights, harmonious proportions and the large, even more plastic and high-quality staged radiator grille are enough to make an impression. There is also a stunningly chic Soul Red Crystal - a special color for which you have to pay 1000 euros extra.
The shell of the signaling device with its super-small locking and unlocking buttons is also painted in the sensuous color. You can actually do without larger buttons, because the hand flatterer is intended to stay in your trouser pocket. If the driver approaches, the central locking system is activated automatically. If he leaves, the login system locks automatically.
Inside, the CX-5 presents itself in the typical look of the brand. Black dominates in our test sample, with many fine chrome accents forming a respectable contrast. Soft surfaces in a leather look, a bit of high-gloss black and accurate workmanship ensure a slightly undercooled and homely ambience.
The cockpit offers a mix of classic round instruments and a central display, which shows a large round speedometer in the center. Thanks to its fine resolution, the virtual speedometer looks almost like a classic analogue instrument. The CX-5 also projects driving-relevant information into the driver's field of vision via a head-up display.
The rotary pushbutton in the center console, which is used to operate the infotainment system, is also useful for keeping an eye on the traffic at all times. In some situations, this solution seems awkward compared to direct finger commands on the touchscreen. In return, no fingerprints get in the way when you look at the flat and wide screen. However, people who rely on reading glasses might find the high-resolution infotainment screen a bit small.
In return, there is enough space in the center console for a classic automatic air conditioning control unit, which can be used to adjust the desired climate in a self-explanatory and straightforward manner. The integration of smartphones via Android Auto or Apple Carplay also works well, but the phone still has to be wired for this.
At least the space available in the CX-5 is beyond doubt. Adult guests are well accommodated in the front and rear. The trunk offers space for 522 liters of luggage. The amazingly light intermediate floor can be lowered to the loading sill or alternatively a quarter of a floor. Accordingly, small items can be stowed invisibly under the intermediate floor or, alternatively, larger luggage can be loaded. Thanks to the split folding seat backrest, the luggage compartment can also be used flexibly in the longitudinal direction and is generously dimensioned with a maximum of 1,652 litres. In any case, the 4.58 meter long Japanese has nothing against a camping holiday with tent, kith and kin.
The journey may also take you off the beaten track. In addition to more ground clearance, our example also offers permanent all-wheel drive, which ensures good traction even when others get stuck with spinning wheels. However, the power distribution to all four wheels swallows a little of the performance of the 2.5-liter four-cylinder, which, despite 145 kW/194 hp, in combination with a six-speed automatic transmission and the comfortably springy chassis, encourages a more relaxed driving style. What you miss with the naturally aspirated petrol engine is a small character boom from below.
If you want more courageous draft, you have to demand speeds. The petrol engine delivers it willingly, accompanied by a throaty sound. Then an emotional facet of the very linearly accelerating sucker comes to light. The 1.6-tonner needs 9.3 seconds to accelerate to 100 km/h, with a maximum of 195 km/h. For comparison: A VW Tiguan 2.0 TSI 4Motion with 140 kW/190 hp easily rushes ahead of the CX-5 in 7.7 seconds and 213 km/h. The consumption is on the level of the competition - without downsizing and hybridization: we used 7.8 liters per 100 kilometers, which was below the official WLTP value of 8.0 liters.
The CX-5 is also up to date with modern aids and assistance systems. At least in the top-of-the-line Sports-line Plus version. Then matrix LED lights with automatic high beam, head-up display, traffic sign recognition, collision avoidance, lane keeping function, distance cruise control, 360-degree camera system ensure safety and relaxation, especially on long tours. However, the technology has its price, because instead of 29,590 euros for the basic model, our example with the top equipment Sport-Line Plus, large petrol engine, automatic and all-wheel drive comes to 46,640 euros. Anyone who wants an electric glass sunroof (770 euros) and the key cover painted in the vehicle color (116 euros) will end up at around 48,500 euros.
