Road Test: Mazda CX-5 2015

When Mazda and Ford parted ways, it ushered in a new era for the Japanese brand as Mazda forged a new path. Leading the drive was the stylish new Mazda CX-5 SUV, which continues to make waves.

A refreshed line-up throughout the entire range, Mazda seems to have perfected the formula of value-driven cars that entice.

Leading from the front

Approaching the large SUV you can’t help but admire it from all angles. Its combination of sharp and sleek lines offers a stylish design through the brands “KODO – Soul of Motion”.

Built with the purpose of looking powerful and athletic, the CX-5 redefines what we expect from an SUV thanks to good build quality with hints of a sporty undertone.

Packing the CX-5 with standard features certainly helps the cause as the car comes with LED headlamps and an elegant set of 17-inch alloys to name a few.

Driving fun

Housed beneath the curvy bonnet of our test mule was Mazda’s feisty 2.2-litre Skyactiv-D diesel engine. Boasting 129kW and 420Nm from the four-cylinder oilburner, the engine propels the sumo SUV along nicely and the lowdown torque means there is plenty of shove, which is great for city driving.

On the open road the Mazda CX-5 stretches its legs with ease and quite comfortably idles along. It’s a great companion on the longhaul. The steering is light and despite the SUV’s rather large size, it is easy to maneuver and visibility is good, while the reverse camera and parking sensors are welcomed for those tricky mall parking spots.

With some careful driving Mazda claims a combined fuel consumption of around 5.9 litres/100km. But during my tenure with the Japanese sumo, I could only wrestle a figure of 8.5 litres/100km. Not fantastic, considering it spent a better part of our time together cruising on the freeway.

Inside story

The cockpit of the Mazda CX-5 is a touch of class. Spacious and comfortable, the finishing and attention to detail is astounding. The electronically adjustable (driver seat only) leather seats and premium feel dash; highlight Mazda’s future intentions to become a premium car brand.

The Mazda CX-5’s interior is certainly easy to live with, much like that comfy couch in the living room. Everything is ergonomically laid out and all the vitals can be seen at glance. At the rear, the seats comfortably accommodate three adults and the 403-litre boot seems to devour everything thrown at it.

Round-up

The Mazda CX-5 delivered everything one expects from an SUV of this nature. Large, imposing and well finished. It’s no wonder I’m seeing more of them gracing our streets. My only gripe – with downsizing on the rise, Mazda’s engines don’t exhibit the fuel consumption figures its strong rivals have managed to achieve. Otherwise, Mazda has done a stellar job of taking the fight straight to the competitors in a tough and highly competitive segment.

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