C ar S cene I nvestigation: Mazda CX-5

Mazda has come up with something new. Something revised. Something that its competitors (Kia Sportage, Honda CR-V, Volkswagen Tiguan…) should all watch out for. Mazda has launched its new CX-5.

· Design & Engineering:

In the past few years, the market for SUV’s has risen dramatically. To be specific, the CUV segment. As its name implies, a CUV is a compact crossover model that features off-roader style looks and heights. To do a compare and contrast, a good example of an SUV would be a Range Rover Sport / Volvo XC90. A CUV would be more of a Volkswagen Tiguan. CUV’s have gained popularity, due to their adequate off-road capabilities (mostly used around cities) and tall stance, despite their more compact form of shape. This appeals greatly towards modern day ‘soccer mums’ who enjoy the off-road capabilities (over grassy fields to pick up the kids), and yet the compact size. Now for the CX-5, the exterior takes a step apart from its older brother—the CX-7. Now a rather popular trend, the CX-5 sports an oversized five-point grill. From the side, I find that the CUV has a staggered look—the rear seems to have a higher stance than the nose of the vehicle. Though the standard 19-in wheels (on the luxury package) provide the Mazda with a nice stance, the vehicle look clumsy and messily put together. From the rear, the CX-5 shows tell tale signs of its capabilities, through the small boot and small tailpipes. What I like about the rear though, is the nice, clean-cut rear lights, which seem to resemble pulled back eyes. On the whole, the CX-5 has a funky appearance that might not appeal to the general market.

· Interior

Getting into the driver’s seat, one immediately notices the large steering wheel neatly adorned with multiple control buttons. I find that the splash of brushed aluminium down the middle provides the wheel with a sporty and avantgarde look. Unlike its older brother, the CX-5 has near to perfect ergonomics, thanks to well laid out controls and a highly adjustable driving position. Unlike the red dials found in earlier models, the new Mazda showcases ice white dials (frankly these appeal to me much more). To follow suit with the fine ergonomics, the standard factory fitted touch screen stereo system with satellite navigation (comes with standard Bose speakers) is placed high upon the center console for easy reach of both the driver and the front passenger. Unfortunately, as the interior is filled with acres of black plastic, things can get rather drab after a while. Nevertheless, the exposed surfaces are made with high quality and soft-touch plastics. At the rear, the CX-5 offers reasonable amounts of head and legroom for passengers. Furthermore, rear-air conditioning vents spoil passengers, allowing them to be comfortable throughout long journeys as well. The boot also offers a wide section for luggage and golf bags, and is further enhanced by the split/fold rear seats. To sum it all up, the CX-5’s interior has surpassed interiors from the CX7, 3, 5, 7, etc. With a new and revised interior, this Mazda looks the epitome of charisma and good taste, vis-à-vis competitors.

· Ride & Handlings

Underneath, the CX-5 features Mazda’s all new platform and engine. Based on Mazda’s new philosophy of SKYACTIV, the engine incorporates a holistic approach to enhancing efficiency. Thus, the 1988cc naturally aspirated four-pot produces a convincing 155 BHP and 200Nm—numbers that are up on Mazda’s ever popular naturally aspirated 2.0-liter found in the Mazda 5 and Mazda 6. Being a naturally aspirated 4-pot, the CX-5 speeds ahead of naturally aspirated Japanese models, with a 0-100 Km/h time of 9.5 seconds, though it lags behind European turbo-charged rivals, such as the Volkswagen Tiguan. Mated to a 6-Speed auto box, the engine can sound slightly gruff once pushed past the 130km/h mark. On the plus side, as manual shifting via the gearbox as well as through the paddle shifters on the steering wheel is available, enjoying your drive becomes ever so easy. Hurry the CX-5 into a corner, and the CUV hugs the road well enough for it to surpass even small sedans. Despite the 19-inch wheels, total ride comfort is suitable and quiet, allowing for a comfortable ride throughout.

· Verdict

Definitely Mazda’s best efforts in years. Through exterior styling can be slightly funky an unappealing to many, the interior boasts of superior quality and features (such as the standard Bose sound system). Overall ride quality is superb, bar a few clanks over potholes. Apart from that, the CX-5 does a good job of upping the pace against rivals.

Zoom-zoom.