Review: Mazda CX-5

I well remember the launch of the Mazda CX-5 in 2012. It was also my first encounter with the Japanese firm’s Skyactiv technology.

Skyactiv promised impressive fuel savings and lower CO2 emissions without losing sight of the fun element at the heart of Mazda’s “zoom zoom” ethos.

At the time I wrote: “It appears from this that Skyactiv is no flash in the pan to gain Mazda valuable Brownie points with the environmental lobby, it’s a serious attempt to change the face of modern motoring.”

Fourteen years on, and with an all-new CX-5, those words still ring true.

In that time, more than five million CX-5s have been sold worldwide across the first two generations, while UK sales have passed 103,536. It remains Mazda’s best-selling model here, and clearly shows no sign of losing its appeal.

A new model brings a new engine. The previous 2.0-litre base unit has gone, replaced by a 2.5-litre e-Skyactiv G petrol engine producing 139bhp, teamed with 24V Mazda M Hybrid technology.

It responds well when you put your foot down, but there is a downside. The engine can be noisy and there is a fair amount of tyre roar making its way into the cabin.

UK buyers get four trim levels: Prime-Line, Centre-Line, Exclusive-Line and Homura. The top two offer a choice of two- or four-wheel drive, but there is just one transmission – a six-speed gearbox that is smooth, precise and refreshingly straightforward.

There are plenty of changes between the new and outgoing models, so this is far more than a facelift. The familiar shape remains, but the new CX-5 is longer, wider and taller. The wheelbase has grown by 115mm, creating acres of legroom for rear-seat passengers.

Mazda says the extra length improves “overall practicality for daily use”. It certainly provides more space, but there is a price to pay: we found the CX-5 a little too bulky when tackling city streets and squeezing into tight parking spaces.

Inside, Mazda has joined the growing ranks of manufacturers putting almost everything behind a touchscreen. I’m sure it becomes second nature with time, but it isn’t as intuitive as some rival systems.

The large 15.6in screen in our Homura – other versions get a 12.9in display – is at least quick to respond and has crisp, clear graphics.

All models get wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus Google Gemini, Maps and Play. That is a real bonus and something more manufacturers should offer.

Our Homura also had wireless connectivity and charging. Unfortunately, my phone became very hot and charging was painfully slow. Whether that was the car or my phone, I’m not sure.

Elsewhere, there’s a panoramic sunroof, wider-opening rear doors and a bigger boot. Capacity rises by 61 litres to 583 litres, while folding the rear seats flat creates a huge 2,019 litres of space. For family life, that makes the CX-5 a very useful machine indeed.

Mazda CX-5

Price: £38,950 (as tested £39,650)

Engine: 2.5 e-Skyactiv G Petrol

Power: 139bhp

Torque: 175 lb/ft

Transmission: Six-speed automatic

Top speed: 116mph

0-62mph: 10.5 seconds

Economy: 40.4mpg

CO 2 emissions: 159g/km