Mazda CX-5, car review: Excellent value and great behind the wheel – this crossover has the lot
The fact that it’s efficient, and hence economical to run, only enhances the appeal of this smart-looking family car
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The crossover market puts almost as much emphasis on style as its does on practicality, and the new Mazda CX-5 excels in both departments. The fact that it’s efficient right across its engine range, and hence economical to run, only enhances the appeal of this smart-looking family car.
We tried the 148bhp 2.2-litre diesel, which in our opinion is the best model in the line-up. It’s cheaper and more economical than its higher-powered, 173bhp stablemate of the same capacity, yet the engine remains a highly capable unit when teamed with the standard-fit six-speed manual transmission. It’s pleasingly refined as well. Why spend any extra?
There’s plenty of grip in both four and two-wheel-drive guise, while the body is well controlled, the handling impressive and the steering precise. With such a rewarding drive, it’s easy to ignore the wind noise and road rumble that leak into the cabin.
Talking of the interior, the Mazda’s occupants are well catered for thanks to excellent packaging. There’s plenty of leg and headroom for passengers front and rear, while the driver faces a stylish, well built dash and is kept comfortable with a multi-adjustable seat and wheel. The boot is generous with seats both up and down; the latter set-up gives a virtually flat load floor.
Standard kit in even the entry-level model includes Bluetooth, a seven-inch touchscreen with sat-nav, dual-zone climate and cruise controls, all-round parking sensors, 17-inch alloy rims plus auto wipers and lights. A five-star crash-test rating reflects the CX-5’s high level of safety equipment, and as a manufacturer Mazda is highly regarded for its reliability.
With showroom list prices ranging from £22,995 to £29,395, the CX-5 represents great value for money. The icing on the cake is that, if you play your cards right, you may even get the dealer to knock one or two thousand off as well...
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments