The all-new Mazda CX-5 has launched and the new range has expanded from six to seven variants, with the introduction of a new 2.0 Dynamic derivative with automatic transmission.
South Africa’s powertrain lineup comprises of three engines options and with both manual and automatic transmissions and four trim levels. There are the 2.0-litre and 2.5-litre petrol mills as well as the 2.2-litre diesel engine. All 2.0-litre engine derivatives are available in both the manual and automatic transmissions, with the Dynamic derivative now offering an automatic option. The 2.5-litre petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engine derivatives come with automatic transmission.
Except for the entry level Active trim models that ride on 17-inch wheels, the rest of the range sport newly designed 19-inch alloy wheels.
As far as the exterior look goes, the new shape is not a radical departure from the previous model, however the roofline is lower, all the body panels have been replaced to create a sleeker look and slim LED head and front fog lamps modernise the front of the CX-5.
The Active petrol derivative gets added rear ventilation, USB for rear centre armrest and auto door lock . Adjustable lumber support for the driver’s seat and auto fold mirrors are added from the Dynamic model and from the Individual derivative there is the 10 speaker BOSE system, head-up display, powerlift tail gate a the array of added safety features mentioned below.
Interior
The interior of the CX-5 has a sleek, minimalist feel. and changes include the seven-inch infotainment screen that is no longer fully integrated in the facia but stands out in tablet-like fashion. The Japanese manufacturer has added extra insulation inside the cabin and made an effort to eliminate wind noise and claims that you can expect improved seats and advanced ergonomics throughout.
Safety
Added features include G-Vectoring Control (GCV) to improve cornering. The GVC detects steering inputs and slightly restricts engine torque output to shift the vehicles weight forward slightly, adding more down force to the front tyres for better cornering and “direct handling and swifter reactions from the car.”
The Individual and Akera trim levels come with a range of safety features including, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, adaptive LED headlights, blind spot monitoring, driver attention alert, which detects changes in vehicle behaviour that suggests the driver may be losing concentration and sounds a chime and issues a warning on the display suggesting a rest stop. The smart city brake supports monitors vehicles ahead assessing the likelihood of and impact when travelling between 4-80km/h. If the car detects a risk of impact, it “issues visual and audible warnings and primes the brakes for a faster response should the driver brake.”
Pricing
Mazda CX-5 2.0 Active: R379 900
Mazda CX-5 2.0 Active auto: R391 900
Mazda CX-5 2.0 Dynamic: R404 900
Mazda CX-5 2.0 Dynamic auto: R416 900
Mazda CX-5 2.2 DE Active auto: R459 400
Mazda CX-5 2.5 Individual auto: R491 900
Mazda CX-5 2.2 DE AWD Akera auto: R557 500
The new CX-5 officially goes on sale in SA at the start of June. All models come standard with a three-year/unlimited km service plan.