The original Mazda CX-5 was a big car for the Japanese manufacturer when it first went on sale in 2012.
It debuted a sharp new design language – Kodo: Soul of Motion, a name which no-one really understands the meaning of to this day – as well as the lightweight, fuel-efficient Skyactiv technology.
These formed the basis for a vast overhaul of the entire Mazda range, with the Kodo look being applied to everything from the much-loved MX-5 roadster to an all-new compact SUV – the Juke-rivalling CX-3.
Now though, the process has gone full circle and it is time for the mid-size SUV that kickstarted Mazda’s radical rebirth to be redesigned from scratch.
So, from June 30th, Brits will be able to buy the all-new CX-5, priced from just under £24,000. Phew, we took a while to get to the crux of this article, eh?!
The second-generation CX-5 may appear like little more than a mid-life refresh – why fix what ain’t broke? – and the key changes are far from obvious.
New changes
You may have spotted the thinner lights and ‘evolved’ front-end, but there’s also a completely redesigned interior, as well as sleeker sides and a lower roofline.
Modifications to the CX-5’s underpinnings mean that torsional body rigidity is 15 per cent stiffer than the original model, while handling, suspension and brakes have been improved, thanks in part to G-Vectoring Control. The cabin is also more insulated and comfortable than before, with exterior noise and vibration levels reduced.
All second-gen CX-5s come as standard with LED headlights, auto power-folding door mirrors, dual-zone climate control, DAB radio and a seven-inch colour touchscreen display with Mazda’s integrated navigation software.
Sport Nav cars throw in a reversing camera, eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat, keyless entry, heated front seats and steering wheel, a power lift tailgate and new head-up display (HUD) that projects directly onto the windscreen and features traffic sign recognition.
Engine options include a two-litre 162bhp petrol with front-wheel drive, linked to a six-speed manual gearbox, and a 2.2-litre 148bhp diesel with front- or all-wheel drive and a six-speed manual or auto transmission, as well as a higher-powered version of the same diesel with 172bhp.
Jeremy Thomson, managing director of Mazda Motors UK, said: “The CX-5 will go down as a landmark car in Mazda’s history.
“Not only did it introduce Skyactiv Technology and Kodo: Soul of Motion design, it also showcased how Mazda could make an SUV that was stylish, great to drive and capable of luring customers from premium badged rivals.
“Today, the all-new Mazda CX-5 takes this to the next stage, elevating exterior design, cabin quality and refinement to new levels of sophistication, whilst at the same time, ensuring Mazda’s love of driving is even more apparent in the handling.”
Sounds spiffy, we can’t wait to have a go!
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