In a run-up to the Los Angeles auto show, Mazda has today pulled the covers off is all-new CX-5 SUV. Since its introduction in 2012, the CX-5 is touted as the turning point for Mazda, spinning off a range of critically-acclaimed cars and equally impressive engines.
Mazda has exhaustively refined and revised every aspect of the new CX-5, “aiming to share the pleasure of driving with everyone on board.” Under the bonnet, the new CX-5 will feature three familiar mills: A SKYACTIV-G 2.0 and 2.5, as well as a SKYACTIV-D 2.2 diesel. No ratings were released at pass time, but we’re assured that they deliver “powerful, linear performance” with “outstanding real-world fuel economy.”
Looks-wise, the CX-5 kicks things off with a new gunmetal-grey grille, setting it apart from the current corporate grille found on other Mazda SUVs. The rather strange looking badge affixed to that grille houses an array of sensors, which service safety systems included in the i-Activsense package. That package comes with it features like radar guided cruise control and traffic sign recognition, among others. There are slimmer LED headlights, off-coloured cladding all round, and polishing it all off is a new ‘Soul Red Crystal’ hue.
A quick aside on the new colour: Mazda claims that the new shade is 50% richer and 20% more saturated, thanks to the new specially-developed pigment and the firm’s proprietary Takuminuri painting technology, giving it the “quality and precision of a hand-painted finish.”
The rear of the car sees some inspiration from the CX-9, with slim taillights linked by a line running through the Mazda badge on the hatch. It’s familiar but fresh, which will be perfectly fine to most.
The interior sees an evolutionary change to the design language. The dashboard has been completely redesigned for better symmetry, and A-pillars that have been moved back slightly help to provide a properly commanding view of the road. Improved ergonomics all round, with a new steering wheel (also nicked from the CX-9), switchgear, Commander Control dial, gear selector, push start button, and a MZD infotainment display placed more prominently on the dash.
Sound comes from a 10-speaker Bose audio system, while a 4.6-inch colour screen in the instrument cluster keeps the driver up to date with relevant information while on the move. The entire cabin will be offered in three complete packages: Leather in white or black, or fabric in just black.
One of the stand-out features on Mazda’s new SUV is the inclusion of a windscreen head-up display, one of the first in its class. This will minimise distraction behind the wheel, as drivers enjoy the benefits of G-Vectoring Control (which provides a more connected feel at the helm). A remote-controlled powered tailgate is also thrown in for good measure.
The new CX-5 will go on sale in its home market in Japan, with other markets expected in due course. It certainly has big shoes to fill: The car it replaces is Mazda’s best selling model in Europe, with a presence in over 120 countries and accounts for a quarter of the firm’s total sales. Mazda is quick to remind us that the previous car won more than 90-awards worldwide, so we expect the new CX-5 to be nothing short of brilliant.
Check out our huge gallery below to feast your eyes on the new CX-5. For more information on Mazda and its local range, check out our Showroom.
