Its brash with a tint of subtleness particularly on pads. Yes, that’s latest CX-5 Mazda we’re raving about folks!
The new diesel range comes added with a splash of equipment and doubling the number of derivatives from three to six, well considering it was an auto that we took for an arduous trip down to lush and tapestry Durban, covering the controversial Metro FM awards recently.
The 129kW 2.2-litre turbo-diesel is an absolute gem, delivering a whopping 420Nm from just 2000rpm to all four wheels via a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission.
Of course, even with the SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY all-wheel drive system, which transfers power to the wheels with most traction, the CX-5 is clearly a road-biased compact SUV (interestingly, in the front-wheel drive Active derivative, this engine is detuned to deliver 110kW and 380Nm).
Claimed diesel consumption is pleasing, too (a stop-start system comes standard), although our final figure of 7.6 litres per 100km was well over the quoted 5.9.
It’s surprisingly fun-to-drive as well, belying its considerable height through the bends -KZN is synonymous for- thanks in part to a firm-yet-comfortable suspension setup. The steering, meanwhile, is light but sharp enough to keep enthusiastic drivers interested.
The CX-5’s cabin is fairly roomy at 4555mm long with a wheelbase of 2700mm, it’s a deceptively large vehicle with rear leg- and head-room a particular highlight.
Luggage capacity (well used as all kinds of bags and coolerbag took space) comes in at a smidgen over 400 litres, which is a little light when compared to the boot space of competitors such as the Nissan Qashqai and Toyota RAV4.
But that’s not all. Keyless entry and starting, automatic Xenon headlights (with adaptive function and high-beam assist), rain-sensing wipers, electrically adjustable driver’s and front passenger seats, leather upholstery, a sunroof, parking sensors front and rear, a reversing camera, a tyre-pressure monitor, and 19-inch alloys, Bluetooth and an 5.8-inch colour touch-screen complete the lengthy list of standard features.
Safety (as we experienced during rainy Durbs) meanwhile, is further covered thanks to ABS with EBD, brake assist, hill start assist, traction/stability control and six airbags.
This is a dynamically gifted for a compact crossover, yet more than quiet, frugal and comfortable enough for everyday family motoring
It retails for R416 900
Verdict:
1-10 (Diesel) 7
1-10 (Performance) 6
Meanwhile, the Mazda C2 came third during the COTY awards on Tuesday.
