Does the world really need another Compact SUV? Mazda obviously think so! We find out if their CX-5 is really good enough to win fans in this competitive market.
What is it? Mazda’s latest addition is intended to capitalize on the ever popular Compact SUV market; essentially what these cars offer are the looks of a rugged country warrior but with hatch back proportions. So they may look like fuel guzzlers but underneath the brawny exterior is an efficient car that won’t damage the environment or your pocket!
Who is it aimed at? With families as the target market the CX-5 will certainly appeal with its flexibility and versatility.
Styling? It looks like a beefy Mazda 3 and is beautifully proportioned. Attractive and muscular the CX-5 has a classy on road presence.
Under the Bonnet? Our test car was powered by a powerful 2.2-litre diesel engine that pumps out bucket loads of oomph and copious amounts of pure pulling power. Equipped with an all wheel drive system this ensures that there is optimum grip when it is most needed whatever the surface.
What’s it like inside? Inside the high driving position means great visibility and behind the wheel the CX-5 is comfortable and car like. The interior is roomy and understated but a little bland for our tastes. There is however a nice blend of black and charcoal. Doors shut with a reassuring thud and fit and finish is good throughout. Interior space is excellent and there is ample leg and headroom for passenger’s front and rear. Boot space is a decent 503-litre and with the rear seats folded flat this increases to a cavernous 1620-litre loading capacity.
On the Road? Instantly we were impressed with the CX-5’s sporty road manners. Around town the handling and precise steering makes light work of tight spaces and gives the CX-5 a small car feel. On the open road it revs so nicely, never strained and is always composed. It is pretty impossible to unsettle this car.
And Safety? In terms of safety, the CX-5 received the max five-stars from EuroNCAP, the only stars that truly matter! So as expected no shortcuts have been taken with regards to safety and the CX-5 offers Smart City Brake Support (SCBS) that helps prevent low speed frontal collisions, as standard.
Options? The Mazda CX-5 is available with the option of three equipment levels – Executive, Sport and Sport Se. Standard equipment, even on the entry level Executive is generous. Upgrading to the Sport models adds 17”Alloy Wheels, Climate Control, Cruise Control, Bluetooth, Parking Sensors with rear camera and a 5.8”touch screen with Tom-Tom Sat Nav. While the top of the range Sport SE adds 19″ Alloy wheels, Bi-xenon headlights with AFLS, Smart card remote keyless entry system, Leather seat trim, Bose and nine speakers.
How about Fuel Economy? Debuting in the CX-5 is Mazda’s new Skyactiv technology which is a new system developed by Mazda that allows fuel consumption and emissions to be reduced through a combination of weight reduction and redesign. The results are impressive; our 2.2 litre diesel returned 5.2 litres per 100km and with emissions of 136g/km it qualifies for Band B so annual motor tax is €225.
Okay so the verdict? The CX-5 may look like your average family car but on the road it is such fun to drive and so sure footed. With car-like handling and impressive fuel economy the CX-5 is refreshingly good. Whether ferrying kids, the dog or the golf clubs this is one of the best blends of fun and function around.
Why you’ll buy one? Great to drive; Excellent fuel economy and emissions
Why you won’t? Interior is a little dull
RIVALS
VW Tiguan 2.0 TDI 140 bhp 4WD Sport & Style €36,905
Kia Sportage 2.0 4 x4 Diesel EX €32,935
Ford Kuga 2.0 TDCi 6 speed 4WD €36,281
Mazda CX-5 2.2D Sport SE AWD
Engine: 2,191 Diesel engine putting out 129kW and 420Nm of torque at 2,000rpm
Max speed: 204 kph
0-100km/h: 9.4 seconds
Emissions (motor tax): 136 g/km (€225)
Starting price: €25,195
Model price range: €25195- €34,895Test car €34,895
No of Doors: 5 doors
Euro NCAP: 5 stars
Fuel type: Diesel
Fuel Economy (combined cycle): 5.2L/100km
Boot Capacity Seats up(down): 503 litres (1630 litres)
Car Seats: 2 Isofix points in the rear seats and simple to use
Length: 4555mm
Width: 1840mm
Height: 1710mm
Wheelbase: 2700mm
For more information check out mazda.ie or the Mazda Ireland Facebook page.
13th September, 2012
