The Mazda CX5 is primarily a family car rather than an off-road vehicle, however the four-wheel drive version will give you that added bit of security and versatility that might be particularly handy for the occasional trip in adverse weather or slippery road conditions. When you choose your CX5 there are a variety of combinations you can pick. There are three different engines available, such as the 2L petrol and 2.2L diesel ones, offering between 150 and 175 bhp. The 'all-wheel drive' feature is an option to certain models and is only available on some diesel engine variants. The petrol engined variant only offers front-wheel drive by comparison.
The Mazda CX-5 definitely has an SUV feel about it, perhaps having similar looks to the Qashqai?
Practicality and Features of the Mazda CX5
In addition to the 4x4 functionality offered on certain models, the CX5 is jam-packed with lots of equipment and technology, and scores very highly in the practicality stakes. The car has five seats, and when used for four people provides ample legroom, headroom and seating area. The plush leather trim is comfortable and has the benefits for families that it is easy to wipe clean. The SE-L level of trim (which is the basic trim level) includes many features such as cruise control, automatic windscreen wipers and lights, a climate control system and Bluetooth for you to connect your smartphone. The more expensive 'sport' trim additionally features the leather trim and a handy camera at the back to help with reversing. Satellite navigation is also an optional extra for both levels of trim.
In terms of practicality, this 4x4 offers lots of it with a large boot capable of carrying lots of luggage, and fold-flat rear seats for when you need to transport bigger pieces of luggage or furniture. The driving position and seating is also very comfortable, offering great visibility to the front and sides, however the rear visibility is compromised slightly by the large pillars.
The dashboard is well-appointed with features and looks great.
Running Costs & Purchase Price
Looking at the 2.2L diesel variant of this Mazda 4x4, it offers a non too shabby fuel economy of around 54mpg. This is a great figure for an SUV, especially considering the engine is a 2.2L one, however it falls quite a bit short of the exceptional Skoda Octavia estate that offers a MPG in the mid 70's. This vehicle is also quite 'middle of the road' in terms of purchase price, with new models ranging from around £21,000 to £27,000. It does offer a generous amount of features and capability for that price however, and is probably one of the lower priced SUV's and 4WD's that still retains a luxurious feel.
How does the CX-5 Fare in Terms of Safety?
In terms of safety the CX-5 has achieved a 5* rating in the Euro Ncap safety tests thanks to many great design features and a few innovative bits of kit. An example of these include the 'City Braking System' that will automatically stop the car if it senses that a low-speed (ie: less than 10mph) collision is inevitable. Whilst this is handy, it doesn't offer as clever a set of features as the Skoda Octavia that has all manner of gadgets including driver fatigue systems, lane departure detection, brake prefilling and more.
Summing Up the Mazda CX-5 Review
Overall the CX 5 offers excellent value for money, and has a lot of features and kit to keep many a driver happy. It scores highly on safety, has the versatility that four-wheel drive offers, and has a low purchase and running costs. Consequently if you are looking for a versatile family SUV or 4x4 then you'll want to add this to the list of your serious contenders. The only thing I would say is to make sure you choose the model carefully, as there are a few different engine variants and gearbox combinations, some of which only offer front-wheel drive.
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