The Mazda CX-5 has been facelifted yet again, but this is probably the last iteration of the brand’s current-gen medium SUV. Is it still a class leader… or should you wait for the all-new model?
Looking to buy a Mazda CX-5? This review will help you make an informed buying decision.
We like: Well finished, good value, refined and engaging to drive
We don’t like: Improvements aren’t extensive, mediocre powertrain
Fast Facts
- Model Tested: Mazda CX-5 2.0 Dynamic
- Price: R540 400 (May 2022)
- Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol
- Power/Torque: 121 kW/213 Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic
- Fuel Consumption: 6.9 L/100km (Claimed)
- Acceleration 0-100 kph: 10.4 seconds (Claimed)
- Load Capacity: 442-1914 litres
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Where does the Mazda CX-5 fit in?
When it was launched in 2017, the KF-generation Mazda CX-5 instantly became the best-looking model in the family-car segment.
The CX-5 is one of Mazda’s best offerings, but that’s not a throwaway statement… The Hiroshima-based brand’s family car has won its category in the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards twice (in the 2018 and 2020 programmes) and was a finalist in the 2021 instalment.
We’d argue that the 2nd-generation CX-5 wears its years extraordinarily well. Granted, this model was launched only 5 years ago, but it was essentially an evolution of the 1st-generation (KE) model that debuted in 2012. In the face of new entrants to the segment and updates to top-selling models, the CX-5 still offers good value and tallies up commendable sales figures.
Mazda’s family car faces formidable opposition, though. Some of its rivals are all-new (such as the head-turning Hyundai Tucson and its Kia Sportage cousin, as well as the keenly-priced Haval H6 and Chery Tiggo 8 Pro) – or have been significantly revised during the past year.
The Volkswagen Tiguan falls into the latter category. Even in pre-facelift guise, it was a commendable product. Now, it’s even better, but it comes with a rather lofty price tag – its entry-level 1.4TSI 110kWis pricier than the CX-5’s top-spec 2.0-litre derivative! Another option is the Toyota RAV4, which was recently repositioned to offer more upmarket finishes and, importantly, hybrid powertrains. However, the most affordable version costs R625k.
Other alternatives include the Subaru Forester, with its good off-road capability and safety tech, the spacious, feature-packed Renault Koleos and the stylish, underrated Peugeot 3008.
Compare the Mazda CX-5 to the Volkswagen Tiguan and Hyundai Tucson here.
How the Mazda CX-5 performs in terms of…
Kerb Appeal
The 2.0 Dynamic auto was finished in Snowflake White, which is slightly more punchy than an appliance-white finish.
It’s said that a resolved car design will always age well and although we’d stop short of saying the Mazda CX-5 is a timeless beauty, it still looks handsome even if the test unit was clad in a somewhat boring Snowflake White finish. The Soul Red and other metallic finishes are more popular, and a copper-like hue named Zircon Sand is new for the 2022 model year.
This is likely to be the last version of this generation CX-5 that will be offered in South Africa and there’s a slightly larger all-new CX-60 model, which features a new platform and inline-6 cylinder engines (among others), that’s coming to our market in the near future.
Exterior revisions to the Mazda CX-5 are limited to reshaped bumpers and new LED light clusters.
Mazda’s model-update strategy tends to focus on introducing smaller, incremental changes. For 2022, the Hiroshima-based brand has slightly updated the CX-5’s bumpers, as well as its headlight and tailgate clusters, while under-the-skin changes include an updated damping control structure and increased frame rigidity to lessen road noise and suppress vibrations.
If you want a bit more “look at me” factor, consider the 2.0 Carbon Edition, which costs an extra R72k (May 2022), but has bigger alloy wheels and some tasteful red stitching inside.
Interior execution and features
Speaking of the cabin, we’re big fans of Mazda’s interiors. Not only do they feel solid, well-finished and look elegant, but there’s something refreshing about the CX-5’s minimalist fascia; it bucks the trend, which is to have an oversized tablet affixed to the dashboard!
A clean and minimalist cabin design that’s elegant, solidly built and well finished.
With a claimed luggage capacity of 442 litres, the Mazda CX-5 comes close to class honours in terms of practicality, although it ultimately trails the Toyota RAV4 in that respect. We found the load-bay aperture generous enough to easily load larger items (such as golf clubs) and if you need even more space, you can fold the rear seats in a 40/20/40 configuration to free up 1 914 litres. Rear head- and legroom are acceptable for average-sized adults.
Although high-end derivatives come in luxurious Individual and Akera trim grades, the Dynamic spec arguably offers better “bang for your buck”. On top of the already fair Active trim, you get goodies such as keyless entry, black leather, auto-folding mirrors, ‘shift paddles, 17-inch alloys and an 8-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support.
The 2.0 Dynamic’s list of standard features includes nice-to-haves such as push-button start, a reverse-view camera, dual-zone climate control, USB ports in the centre armrest, Bluetooth telephony and audio streaming, auto wipers and auto lights. Hah, it even has a CD player!
What’s that slot above the centre ventilation outlets? That, young people, is a slot for a CD!
The infotainment system offers navigation, but you’ll need to buy an SD card with maps loaded to make use of the function. Therefore, we suggest that you rather plug in your smartphone to activate Apple Carplay or Android Auto and use Waze/Google Maps.
Performance and Efficiency
Whereas most manufacturers utilise smaller-capacity turbocharged engines in their family cars, Mazda has persisted with a naturally aspirated petrol engine with a high compression ratio. The Japanese brand has refined its SkyActiv technology to conform with ever-stricter emission regulations and the 2.0 Dynamic’s 121 kW/213 Nm 2.0-litre naturally aspirated 4-cylinder petrol engine drives the front wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission.
This rotary dial controls your infotainment system. The layout is simple, but works well.
Mazda claims this derivative can sprint from zero to 100 kph in 10.4 seconds, which suggests that it’s not the most energetic performer. However, the CX-5’s power delivery is about fair; the engine doesn’t mind being revved, but it does sound a bit strained as it nears the redline.
We also noticed the automatic transmission was quite eager to hook a lower gear (to make the most of the middling torque, which is produced relatively high in the rev range – 4 000 rpm).
If you’d prefer to occasionally actuate manual shifts, you can make use of the steering wheel-mounted paddles. They provide a bit more engagement/involvement and are pleasant to use. There’s a Sport mode too, but it didn’t seem to adjust anything other than delaying upshifts.
Meanwhile, the 2.0 Dynamic’s claimed fuel consumption is 6.9 L/100 km, but that’s a bit optimistic. Despite our best efforts, we couldn’t get the indicated average under 8 L/100 km, but that’s still a reasonable return for a family car that we tested mostly on urban roads.
Handling Ability and Ride Quality
Higher-profile 17-inch tyres aid on-road comfort and refinement.
The Mazda CX-5’s driving experience remains very satisfying. In fact, we’d go as far as to say it’s one of the more dynamic (non-performance-oriented) medium SUVs to pilot. In past reviews, we’ve ascribed this to a quick and precise steering setup that’s not overly assisted and allied with confidence-inspiring front-end grip – the 2022 model is no different.
The 2.0 Dynamic is genuinely fun to drive, which is not something you can say of family mobiles such as the aforementioned Tucson or RAV4. Mind you, the Tiguan’s reasonably engaging too.
We’ve also suggested that the Mazda’s suspension can feel a bit firm, but in Dynamic spec (with 17-inch alloys wrapped in higher-profile rubber), the ride comfort was a bit better. Those chunkier tyres will be a boon on poor quality roads – they can take more punishment.
The infotainment system adopts a minimalist approach.
Have the mechanical updates enhanced what was already a refined model? We’d be lying if we said we could feel a notable difference, but to be fair, the bar was set extremely high. If you’re not driving too enthusiastically, the CX-5’s cabin is one of the quietest in its class.
Price and after-sales support
The Mazda CX-5 range starts from R493 100 and goes up to R731 900. The 2.0 Dynamic retails for R540 400, which includes a 3-year/unlimited km warranty and a 3-year/unlimited km service plan.
See specification details for the Mazda CX-5 range here
Buy a used Mazda CX-5 on Cars.co.za
Verdict
This is likely to be the final incarnation of the current-gen CX-5, but it still has much to offer.
It seems as if Mazda is determined to keep making small tweaks to its models in a bid to extend their product cycles. But then, this (the KF-generation) CX-5 has only been around for 5 years and continues to deliver excellent quality, refined driving manners and value for money, irrespective of which engine-transmission combo or trim level you may choose.
Should you buy one? For all its positive traits, the Mazda CX-5 can now be considered as a model that’s “among the best” as opposed to “at the top”, but that’s okay as rumours suggest an all-new model will be revealed before the end of 2022 (even though the brand seems to be focusing on its more luxurious “10” models, such as the CX-50, CX-60 etc. right now)
Our question to you is this: Are you prepared to wait for the all-new model, which will undoubtedly come with a substantial price increase? If not, well, there’s nothing much wrong with this current-gen CX-5, which, in 2.0 Dynamic guise, is priced quite competitively.
Frequently Asked Questions
What engines are available in the Mazda CX-5 in South Africa?
In South Africa, the Mazda CX-5 is primarily offered with a 2.0-litre, naturally aspirated Skyactiv-G petrol engine, which produces 121 kW of power and 213 Nm of torque. This engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. There are also models with a 2.5-litre petrol engine that deliver 143 kW and 258 Nm of torque, as well as a 2.2-litre turbodiesel variant in some higher-spec models.
What is the safety rating of the Mazda CX-5?
The Mazda CX-5 has a 5-star safety rating from Euro NCAP. It is equipped with a comprehensive set of safety features, including multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), and a range of advanced driver-assistance systems in higher-end models, such as Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Lane-keep Assist (LKA), and Smart City Brake Support (SCBS).
Does the Mazda CX-5 come with a warranty and service plan in South Africa?
Yes, all new Mazda CX-5 models in South Africa come standard with a 5-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty, a 5-year/unlimited-kilometre service plan, and 5-year/unlimited-kilometre roadside assistance.
Is the Mazda CX-5 a good family SUV?
The Mazda CX-5 is widely regarded as a good family SUV. It offers a spacious and high-quality interior, a comfortable ride, and a practical boot. Its strong safety ratings and advanced features make it a secure choice for families, while its stylish design and refined driving dynamics make it a popular and compelling option in its segment.
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Reviews
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Mazda2 1.5 Individual Plus Automatic (2017) Quick Review
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CX-5 (2022) Review
CX-5 (2021) Review
CX-5 2.2D AWD Akera Review
CX-5 2.2DE AWD Akera (2016) Review
CX-60 Takumi (2024) Review
MX-5 (2015) Review
MX-5: All 4 generations driven
MX-5 RF Automatic (2017) Quick Review
