Mazda CX-5 2.0 SE-L 5dr

Once viewed as a maker of sensible rather than exciting cars, Mazda has taken a radical approach to its future model line-up. The firm's CX-5 demonstrates Mazda's desire to boost crash safety, fuel economy and reduce emissions but without compromising driver enjoyment. Plus, it's decided to spice up its image with a bold new design policy.

Some clever technology has gone into the making of the CX-5. From rethinking the way cars are constructed and selecting extra-strong metal alloys to improve crash protection and help keep weight down to improvements to engine technologies, Mazda has done its upmost to give the CX-5 the best chance possible to compete against more established brands.

The end result is a car that not only looks striking but also delivers a driving and ownership experience that should help the CX-5 move up the wish lists of prospective buyers. And while it may occupy the 'soft-roader' end of the SUV scale, it's a competent car capable of easily filling the void left by those trading up from a family hatchback and also down from a full-blown 4x4.

One of the reasons for this has been Mazda's approach to driving dynamics, which has involved devising new suspension set-ups and reducing weight to create a more responsive and agile car. The result is an SUV that drives more like a car than a regular 4x4, with the CX-5 proving to be engaging and rewarding on a wide variety of roads.

And while you might automatically opt for diesel power, Mazda's engineers have developed a new petrol motor alongside its advanced oil burner. The unit's refinement is immediately noticeable, while there's ample power across the rev range to counter any concerns over the ability to cope with lugging loads or high speed cruising. Certainly, if you don't plan on covering many miles but still need flexible performance there's little evidence of any compromise here.

Our verdict on the Mazda CX-5 2.0 SE-L 5dr

The CX-5's bold look signals a concerted effort from Mazda to make a serious impact in the burgeoning soft-roader market. The combination of advanced powertrains and advanced construction promises a combination of engaging driving dynamics, enhanced crash protection, low fuel consumption and the emissions. With running costs expected to be modest, the CX-5 could well be the smart choice for cost-conscious active families.

Costs

With the prospect of above average fuel economy even for petrol variants, buyers should be able to look forward to modest running costs and low VED outlays over the ownership period. Mazda has a reputation for building dependable, reliable cars and this should also be a factor when making purchasing decisions.

Space and practicality

While three adults will fit across the CX-5's rear seat, the preferred combinations are two adults or up to three children. The boot floor is relatively high but offers a good surface area to spread luggage out on. There is space beneath the boot floor as well, because there is no spare wheel, and there's a good selection of oddment storage options in the cabin.

Controls and display

Mazda's attention to detail is a well-known and appreciated attribute of its many cars and the CX-5's displays and controls are a good example of how to get it right. The three-dial instrument cluster layout is simple but effective, and is partnered by a comprehensive trip computer. On models with satellite navigation, the main functions are controlled by a dial on the lower centre console behind the gearstick and it's easy to use, even on the move.

Comfort

The car's supportive seats and ample cabin space for occupants fore and aft results in a pleasant experience for all concerned. The wide cabin ensures that, up front, elbows won't clash while those in the back don't feel cramped. It would be nice, however, if the cabin was better insulated from road and tyre noise. It's not alarming but distant tyre rumbles and wind roar can spoil an otherwise calm ambience.

Car security

The CX-5's security provision is par for the course in its market sector, with the car featuring an alarm with internal sensors, an immobiliser and remote central locking.

Car safety

Mazda's SkyActiv ethos extends beyond just improving fuel economy, as its engineers developed innovative ways of boosting structural rigidity and crash performance without adding extra bulk or weight. That said, the CX-5 also packs the usual combination of airbags and electronic stability aids, although some of the more advanced features only appear on the options list.

Driver appeal

One of Mazda's main aims with the CX-5 was to make it an enjoyable car to drive. Conventional SUVs aren't always the sharpest of steers, but the CX-5 displays a more car-like behaviour that's in keeping with its road-focused set-up. The assured ride and surprising willingness from the petrol motors means you don't feel obliged to opt for diesel power to secure meaningful performance.

Family car appeal

This is where the CX-5 excels, as the spacious SUV is more family wagon than all-out off-roader. Combining the convenience and all-round ability of a hatchback with the commanding seating position and extra visibility of a 4x4, it's ideal for an demanding, active family. It should also be economical to run and there are child seat mounting points as standard in the CX-5, should parents need them.

First car appeal

It's unlikely that the CX-5 would find favour with novice drivers as it's probably too expensive, too family-focused and too big to make a sensible or appealing first car. That's not to say the SUV isn't an easy car top drive, just that smaller, more manageable models exist in Mazda's line-up.

Quality and image

Mazda has a longstanding reputation for producing solid, reliable cars and the CX-5 will likely continue this tradition. It's a little more radically styled than the firm's previous SUV offerings, but the bold approach is designed to generate attention and attract a younger owner profile.

Accessibility

With its tall stance and good size doors, access and egress should be straightforward. An upside of the CX-5's road-biased focus is that you don't have to haul yourself up and into the cabin like you would with a genuine off-roader thanks to the Mazda's lower ride height. At the rear, the car's tailgate proves easy to open and close, with the load lip at a reasonable height to aid with loading and unloading bulky items.

Stereo and ICE (In car entertainment)

The standard stereo will likely be more than good enough for most buyers. It can play music via a USB input socket while high-grade models have a satellite navigation system including a screen mounted in the centre console that also acts as a media interface. It's clear and easy to use, and the navigation function issues straightforward instructions and is easy to programme.

Colours and trim

It's only fair to compliment the car's bold looks with an equally bold exterior colour choice, as darker hues do little to bring out the exterior's many different detailed styling cues. In contrast, the CX-5's interior boasts a more sombre ambience, although this is improved by the use of light coloured trim accents.

Parking

With its speed-sensitive power steering and high seating position the driver has an excellent view all around, making it easier to judge where obstacles are. Good size mirrors and parking sensors help matters enormously when in tight spaces.

Spare wheel

Emergency tyre repair kit supplied as standard.

Range information

Petrol engine options - 2.0-litre (163bhp). Diesel engine options - 2.2-litre (148bhp and 173bhp). Transmission options: six-speed manual, six-speed automatic. Trim levels: SE-L, Sport, SE-L Lux.

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