2017 Mazda CX5 – Test Drive, Review, Ratings, Specs

The Mazda CX-5 is a 5-Seater Beauty

Mazda continues to find cleaner and fancier terms with its already well appraised Kodoo design language with the Mazda CX-5. But there’s more than just its pretty looks that invoked over million sales worldwide to happy customers. At an affordable price tag shipped with swift and smooth driving character, the Mazda CX-5 makes it almost a default choice for many looking for the ultra-versatile do-it-all 5-seater crossover SUV.

Newer is better in the case of the Mazda CX-5. Its entire shell has been completely re-designed under the Mazda’s 2nd generation of its fundamental Kodo Soul of Motion design language dubbed RX-VISION. And it certainly looks as cool as it sounds. Addition to its ultra streamline body curves, the Mazda CX-5 adopts a new Soul Red Crystal paint that carries a unique character that is 20-percent greater brightness, with brighter reds in direct light and a charcoal-like effect in shadows, similar to flowing magma – or perhaps where the actual idea originated from.

Overall, the all new Mazda CX-5 is really a captivating peace that is both unique in its shape while possessing a lustful cosmetic ambience.  There really isn’t much like it out there and it can be said to be an oxymoron that such vast level of attention was put into creating a simple design.  Interior intentions are made up of decent quality materials, but still looks good on the aesthetic side of things.  Front row seating position was a bit of a tight squeeze, and complaints may be received by rear passengers with limited leg room on the long haul.  But overall, seating arrangements in general made good terms for its purpose especially with its added practicality of the 60/40 rear folding seats for added cargo space.  What can be appreciated most; however, is its well insulated interior cabin space that offers a sense of luxury – even though it’s not within the class.

Power Capabilities

Standard across all models is the SKYACTIV-G 2.5 liter four cylinder engine.  This iteration boosts power output by 3 horsepower compared to previous models at 187 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque.  Paired with the standard engine option is a conventional 6-speed automatic transmission.  The only other engine option is a smaller 2.0L four cylinder available in the lowest GS model when configured with a 6 speed manual transmission What’s exciting to anticipate for the CX-5 is the introduction of the SKYACTIVE-D2.2 clean diesel engine alternative that is suppose to promise higher torque, and snappier acceleration response across a broader engine rev range. Fuel economy scores in at 24/31/27 city, combined and highway respectively for the FWD and 23/30/26 for the AWD powertrain configuration.

The Drive

What’s also new in the latest generation is the introduction of Mazda’s G-Vectoring controls that comes standard across all its models.  The system claims to enhance driving precision and accuracy by controlling certain chassis dynamics based on engine timing parameters that supposedly leads to a smoother ride, and more accurate steering control.

More accurate?  Maybe, but the test driving experience revealed steering to be a bit rough and not as smooth as anticipated.  And with a full fledged 5 passenger vehicle with less than 200 hp is generally deemed under powered in our books.  And by no surprise, the Mazda CX-5 reveals a shortage of breath prematurely in its acceleration sprint from the straight line.  It’s still manageable, and in most city circumstances, it gets the job done, but the expectations really stops there – don’t keep your hopes up if you’re looking for something more.  This is where the hype builds up for the SKYACTIV-d2.2 diesel engine.

Final Thoughts

Price point is a key winner for the Mazda CX-5.  You can have the opportunity to own a beautifully well functioning do-it-all crossover for as low as $24,900 for the base GS model. However, adding quality to the mix will cost you a significant more.  Our Mazda GT model checks in at $34,700 dollars.  Despite the heavily added cost, you also get more that includes enlarged 19″ wheels, safety tech package, leather seats, heated steering, front and rear seats, power rear lift gate, Bose 10 speaker system and leather trimmed upholstery.

While the CX-5 doesn’t necessarily have the “umph” on the acceleration path, the quality aspect certainly doesn’t fall short.  There’s no exception to the fact that the CX-5 was indeed exceptionally well crafted and the interior space follows suite in both for and function.  Despite the shortcomings, it’s also fair to say that no car out there is perfect, though the SKYACTIV-d2.2. diesel does anticipates higher performance expectations.

 

 

 

Specifications

• Vehicle : 2017 Mazda CX5
• Model : Mazda CX5 GT AWD
• Vehicle Type : Crossover
• Seating Capacity : 2+3
• Powertrain Configuration : AWD
• Engine : SKYACTIV 2.5L V4
• Transmission : 6 Speed automatic dual clutch transmission

Pros

• Excellent exterior styling
• Quality interior
• Quiet and comfortable interior
• Affordable price tag (for lower models)

Cons

• Lacks acceleration power
• Higher models can become pricey