Mazda CX-5 Review – Is It Worth Buying?

Reviewing the Mazda CX-5 in 2021

The redesigned Mazda CX-5 ranks high in the compact crossover category, due to its comfortable ride, ease of handling, upscale interior, impressive safety kit, and an upgraded infotainment system.

A quick look at most SUVs in this range will reveal why the Mazda CX-5 is popular with motorists in Australia. Not only does it boast a beautiful interior, but its well-designed bodywork is also just as visually pleasing.

What Does the 2021 Iteration of the CX-5 Lineup Bring to the Table?

The 2021 version of the CX-5 lineup introduces motorists to an upgraded infotainment system. A 10.3-inch screen now replaces the smaller 7.0-inch display. Some of the updated features include the all-new Mazda Connect interface with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard. We recommend using the dial controller while in motion because it’s safer to use. 

The high-end Signature trim comes with a host of safety features such as driver-attention alert, rear automated emergency braking, and an HD 360-degree camera that displays a bird’s eye view of the SUV.

Engine and Performance

The standard trim of the CX-5 comes with a 187 bhp four-cylinder engine that performs well on motorways and cities. At higher speeds, such as when travelling on the freeway,  the CX-5 feels slightly underpowered.

The 250-hp turbocharged version of the SUV feels snappier due to its faster acceleration. Both engines come with a six-speed automatic transmission and FWD or AWD modes.

The overall towing capacities of Mazda CX-5 are in the 1900kg to 2000kg range. The latter capacity is for diesel engines.

Drivers will appreciate how easy the CX-5 is to handle on tight corners due to precise steering. Road noise is minimal, and the electrically assisted steering provides feels great.  Overall, the Mazda CX5 has the ride quality of SUV crossovers that cost almost twice as much.

Safety Features and Reliability

The Mazda CX-5 has a safety score of five stars with ANCAP and has consistently topped customer satisfaction surveys around the world.

The CX-5 takes safety very seriously and has made several advancements. For starters, it uses ultra-high tensile steel and rigid structures that boost the car’s strength during an impact – but without adding any extra weight. All models come with six airbags as standard on all trims.

The GT Sport trim features adaptive LED headlights, while blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist can be found on all trim levels.

When it comes to warranty, all Mazda CX-5s come with a three-year warranty, which may feel slightly underwhelming compared to five and seven-year warranties offered by most of their rivals. In addition, there is a three-year warranty on paintwork and twelve years for rust. Buyers can opt for extender coverage as well.

Interior

The Mazda CX-5 provides drivers with an elevated driving position (compared to other family SUVs like the Seat Ateca and Peugeot 3008). The driver’s seat comes with adjustable lumbar support and height adjustment. The premium trims feature an electrically adjustable driver’s seat without requiring you to pay extra.

The adjustable steering has a good range of height and reach settings, and the dashboard controls are relatively easy to use.

In terms of quality, the Mazda CX-5 feels as if it was thoughtfully put together by experts. It comes with luxe surfaces that are soft to the touch. It also has an eclectic combination of materials that work well to improve the aesthetics of the interiors. The top-of-the-line GT Sport features more luxurious dashboard inserts.

Space for Passengers

In terms of storage space, the Mazda CX-5 performs as well as its rivals. There is plenty of head and legroom for adults over six-foot to sit comfortably, and they won’t be struggling for space.

However, if passenger space is a priority for you, we recommend opting for the Toyota RAV4 and Peugeot 5008.

Tree front doors feature long, deep storage pockets, a roomy cubbyhole (ideal for keys and phones), and a big glovebox with plenty of space for keeping magazines and books.

Boot Space

The Mazda CX-5 comes with slightly less room for storage compared to its rivals, such as the Honda CR-V and Peugeot 5008. You can fold down the rear seats to create a huge flat load bay for additional storage space. Keep in mind that the boot floor is not height adjustable but does provide a large storage area below, along with two roomy cubbyholes.

In short, the Mazda CX-5 offers 506 litres of space in the boot and nearly 1620 litres with the seats down.