Aging Gracefully
For the last number of years, Mazda has consistently dominated in one particular area: style. The brand’s KODO design language flows nicely, is well proportioned and presents itself as one of the most attractive packages on the market in its price range. But with the new Mazda3 already out on the road, does this last-gen design language still hold up? We took the range-topping CX-5 for a spin to find out how it compares.
This CX-5 signature features the very punchy 2.5L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine. Mazda didn’t build a performance SUV, but this thing goes. There’s also a delightful amount of turbo spooling noise for drivers who care about that sort of thing. It’s a family car though, so we don’t imagine the average buyer will. As far as power goes, you’ll have zero issues with the CX-5. The car looks the part too - with sleek lines and subtly bulging fenders. But again – not a performance car. It sure is pretty though.
The CX-5 Signature drives as nicely as it looks too. The engine has a lot of go to offer and it does handle quite well. Unless you’re driving like you’re on a Japanese mountain road, you’re not likely to feel any significant, scary amount of body roll. While silver isn’t the most exciting colour, it looks quite nice on the CX-5, especially with the Signature’s alloy wheels. But just because it has big wheels, doesn’t mean it’s uncomfortable. Toronto’s rough roads are a worthy test of any car’s comfort and the CX-5 handles them quite well. You will feel bumps, but they won’t shatter your spine. Fuel efficiency is about as expected. We averaged between 10 and 11 L/100km.
Inside, the CX-5 is still a nice place to be. The Signature trim adds some comfort features like Nappa leather seats and some wood veneer on the dashboard and doors. They look and feel quite nice and show Mazda is certainly punching above its weight. Is it essential to getting the most out of the CX-5? Not at all. But it sure makes it a nicer place to be. It’s comfortable, luxurious and safe – perfect for a family. But so is the GT trim. Where the Mazda starts to show its age is in the infotainment system. We love the screen and layout of the new version, featured in the Mazda3. But the CX-5 still uses Mazda’s previous-gen system. There’s nothing inherently wrong with it, but when you try the new system, this one just feels outdated. The biggest blow however, is how pixelated and low-resolution the backup camera is. On the Mazda3, it’s crisp, clear and wide enough to see oncoming pedestrians and traffic with ease – even at night. That’s certainly not the case on the CX-5’s.
But if you can put up with that, the CX-5 could present buyers with some good value if you can wait until the new generation is eventually announced. Rumour has it Mazda will call it the CX-50. It’s not clear when it’s coming but with the Mazda3 out and about already, we don’t imagine it’ll be too far off.
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