Embattled carmakers like Mazda, Honda, and Mitsubishi have found life rather tough amid the rapid Chinese uprising, and failing to strike back fast enough has cost them.
The recent introduction of the new Mazda CX-5 was definitely a step in the right direction for the manufacturer, albeit a belated one. The medium-sized SUV has been the brand’s local star performer for a long time, and the latest iteration is a timely reminder of what the manufacturer has to offer.
Starting at R578 250 for the entry-level Active derivative, the new CX-5 line-up won’t win the price war against China, but it does undercut traditional C-SUV rivals like the VW Tiguan, Nissan X-Trail, and Kia Sportage.
Familiar powertrain
A few subtle styling tweaks have kept the CX-5’s looking fresh and modern, while a tech boost inside has upped its game significantly in the spec department.
Things haven’t changed under the bonnet, where the sole drivetrain across the four-model range is a 2,5ℓ naturally aspirated petrol engine coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission.
With the reintroduction of diesel ruled out, no turbo technology in sight, and a hybrid alternative still a long way off, Mazda’s take-it-or-leave-it approach is an interesting one. The engine might boast a proven reputation, but it doesn’t exactly free Mazda from the notion of being stuck in the past.
Smooth sailing
We sampled the R749 100 flagship Homura derivative on a short route around Hekpoort, Gauteng. The engine’s 132kW of power and 240Nm of torque in this model is routed to all four wheels via a choice of three driving modes: normal, sport, and off-road.
The CX-5’s power delivery is smooth, with none of the usual lag associated with turbocharged engines or the sometimes overly sensitive throttle response found in some Chinese vehicles. It’ll move four adults and their luggage with ease, but performance is nothing extraordinary and, if anything, a tad underwhelming.
The box behaves as long as you take it easy. Under hard acceleration, it tends to drone a bit in an almost continuously variable transmission-like fashion.
Mazda claims it’ll sip 7,6ℓ/100km, but the trip computer on our launch drive never dipped below the 9ℓ/100km.
There are more efficient turbocharged, hybridised, and diesel options out there, which again begs the question: why did Mazda stick with a big free-breathing engine in this day and age?
Tech fest inside
Inside, the new CX-5 is plush and comfortable, with the Homura clad in two-tone black and beige leather. The cabin features mostly soft-touch materials, but there are some hard-plastic inserts in key areas, such as around the gear lever.
The Homura’s 15,5” infotainment screen is as big as anything out there. It also features a 10” digital instrument cluster, wireless charger, 12-speaker Bose sound system, panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel, and transparent chassis-view camera.
There’s no shortage of space in the cabin, and the boot offers a generous 500ℓ.
Over and above the standard safety specs like six airbags, front and rear parking sensors, and reverse camera, the Mazda CX-5 Homura includes a comprehensive set of advanced driver-assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and rear cross-traffic alert.
What’s the verdict?
The new Mazda CX-5 is the best version yet and a great ambassador for the brand. Nonetheless, it’ll find life tough in today’s challenging market, where price is almost always the determining factor.
The CX-5 is a classic example of something that’s stuck between a rock and a hard place. To protect its renowned reputation as a rock-solid offering, Mazda opted for a conservative approach in applying the updates, but in doing so, it’s unlikely to sway buyers who were already looking elsewhere.
Vehicle fast facts
Mazda CX-5 2.5 Homura AWD
Price: R749 100
Engine: 2,5ℓ naturally aspirated
Transmission: six-speed automatic
Power: 132W at 6 000rpm
Torque: 240Nm at 4 000rpm
Fuel consumption (claimed): 7,6ℓ/100km
Licensing mass: 1 720kg
Towing capacity: 1 500kg
Payload: 520kg
