Mazda CX-5 2.2 SKYACTIV-D 150 CV AUT 4WD, test drive (Exterior design, interior and finishes)

We continue with the Mazda CX-5, a crossover we have tested with the 2.2-litre diesel engine featuring SKYACTIV technology and 150 CV of power. Paired with the engine was a six-speed automatic gearbox and all-wheel drive.

Everything about the engine, the technology it debuts and the behaviour of the CX-5 was covered in the first part of the test drive. In this second instalment we tackle the design aspects, a design that also represents a change compared with other Mazda models. Another point we will review in this section is the interior, the space and quality of the finishes (which have improved notably) and the boot.

Exterior design

The Mazda CX-5 kicks off the “Kodo” design, which is how Mazda has named the new design lines that will feature on its future models. A clear example is the new Mazda 6. Among the main changes is a new front end, a signature feature that will extend to other launches and new models.

The front also stands out for its headlights, which feature bi-xenon technology and are adjustable. It is also the first Mazda to incorporate automatic high beams, all of which is available as an option across all trim levels.

From the side, the fluid design, mimicking movement, is what has been defined as “Kodo”. These lines also appear at the rear, where the twin exhaust outlets stand out. The tyres fitted as standard on the Style finish of our test unit were 225/65 R17, a high-profile size ideal for driving on poor road surfaces.

Interior design, living space and finishes

The driving position and dashboard of the Mazda CX-5 are completely new, new in every respect, as materials that until recently were unthinkable at Mazda now appear. We are talking about soft-touch areas, a substantial improvement in the quality of the finishes and the end of the hard plastic that was present in all the brand’s interiors (and in many Japanese brands).

The lines are simple, with the navigation and audio system in the centre controlling the radio, navigation and phone functions. It also debuts a joystick in the centre console (between the seats) from which we can control the system more comfortably. Curiously, though, all the functions the joystick offers can also be performed manually from the navigation touchscreen.

Another notable element is the on-board computer, with very complete information in the instrumentation and a colour display. The steering wheel has a large group of buttons that control everything from the audio to the phone, including cruise control.

The driving position is elevated, comfortable and typical of an SUV. The seats hold the body well and are now available with new upholstery, such as micro-perforated leather (which is appreciated in summer). The sensation behind the wheel is one of space; it feels bigger inside than it looks from the outside.

The rear surprises with its space, which is on a par with a mid-size saloon, and occupants travel in complete comfort in the seats. That said, access to the rear seats is high, and an older person may have some difficulty getting into the car (on the other hand, this is typical of some SUVs).

Boot and storage

Starting with storage, the front seats have several places to leave your things: in the centre console, at the bottom of the central console and in the doors. In the rear seats the storage spaces become scarcer, as the door pockets are small and narrow; a medium-sized notepad (half A4) does not fit in them.

Finally, in terms of the boot the total capacity is 463 litres. Very usable, though, as it has regular shapes and, with a tailgate, there is a good loading opening.

In the third part of the test drive we will focus on the standard equipment of the Mazda CX-5, reviewing its safety features and the innovations this Japanese SUV incorporates. We will also cover pricing and close the tests with an overall assessment of the VW Tiguan and the Mazda CX-5.

Photos | Diego G. Moreira

Technical specifications of this car

Off-RoadMazda CX-57 versions · from 35,200 €