The 2020 Mazda CX-5 is considered as one of the best medium crossovers available in the Australian market. It has consistently occupied the new car sales Top 10 Bestsellers in the country for a while now. The present model sits on the same platform as its five-year-old predecessor, while the wheelbase is the same. It is, however, a little bit longer and lower than before.
The Mazda CX-5 is great when it comes to performance with better than average handling and composed handling than its competitors. Other new features onboard the crossover includes new active safety equipment, updated infotainment for the higher trims, and more torque for the turbocharged powertrain.
Exterior
The crossover has clean lines that look good in any colour. The long hood profile also makes the 2020 CX-5 appear rear-wheel-drive like some German options. The extended bumper satisfies majority of pedestrian crash test standards while maintaining a clean and cohesive exterior. That applies particularly to the fine detailing around the broad grille and the narrow taillights sweeping into the vehicle's fenders.
The crossover replaces the 17-inch wheels for 19-inch alloy provisions on the higher trim levels. However, even the base wheels have an intricate design that makes the CX-5 appear elegant and costlier than it is.
Interior
The interior of the Mazda CX-5 has severally been described as plush. First-rate materials and a sophisticated layout make it look very upscale even at the base trim. The previous iteration did not measure up as well when compared to the new offering. It was spacious and comfortable, but the material quality and design left something to be desired. The steering wheel aboard the 2020 CX-5 is masterfully crafted and well positioned, while the front seat armrests are of the same height as well. It also features a complete set of LATCH child-seat connectors for each of the rear outboard seats.
Is the 2020 Mazda CX-5 Comfortable?
The Mazda CX-5 has supportive seating with a considerable amount of space for adjustment and excellent headroom. The rear passengers have almost 100 cm (40 inches) of legroom on paper. The cargo space is good at 0.90 cubic metre (31 cubic feet) of spacing behind the second row.
How many people does the CX-5 seat?
The crossover has seating capacity for five people. Those occupying the front will find it spacious and comfortable, and there is outward visibility in every direction. The seating in the back allows less space than what some rivals offer, but there is significant headroom available for tall passengers.
Technology
The 2020 CX-5 has a 7.0 touchscreen that sits on top of the dash like a floating tablet and represents the Mazda Connect Infotainment system. It satisfies the rotary controls, which is mounted between the front seats and a clear interface. Standard features on all trims include push-button start, HD Radio, and two USB ports. Dual-zone automatic climate control, six-speaker audio system, 10-speaker Bose audio, satellite radio, android-auto, and Apple CarPlay capabilities are present.
Performance and handling
The Mazda CX-5 comes available with a 2.5-litre inline-4 engine linked to a six-speed automatic transmission. It is capable of 137 kW that is sent to the front wheels. The acceleration is also adequate at 8.3 seconds from 0 to 97 km/hr. There is an optional 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder unit, which is rated at 186 kW.
The Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trims are the higher trim versions. The performance on the turbocharged version allows 0-97 within a time of 6.2 seconds. Though the turbo engine also pairs with a six-speed automatic transmission, these are only available in all-wheel-drive options. There is a third diesel 2.2-litre four-cylinder SkyActiv-D option, exclusively for the all-wheel-drive as well. It can only be had on the Signature model.
When it comes to handling, one does not need to be aggressive with the 2020 CX-5 to enjoy the experience. The precise steering and composed feeling make it great for a relaxing cruise. The all-wheel-drive system also responds well on slippery terrain. It is one of the confidence-inspiring systems in the market as well.
What is the fuel economy of the 2020 Mazda CX-5?
The 2.5-litre inline engine can return 10.6 km per litre, while the turbocharged unit allows for 10.2 km to the litre. The crossover's non-turbo version can run on two cylinders to save on fuel, and a new display on the dashboard indicates when they are operating in half mode.
Safety
ANCAP rated Mazda CX-5 5 stars in 2017. The NHTSA gave it a 5 during its crash testing session, while other organizations like the IIHS have yet to grade this model year. They did endorse the previous year's model though, so the assumption is that the current version will perform just as well.
The 2020 CX-5 boasts of the latest driver-assistance packages lane-departure warning & assist, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Other available active safety features include head-up displays, traffic sign recognition, a surround-view parking camera system, and front & rear parking sensors. The brand also made sure the i-Activesense suite is standard for all trims of the CX-5, so all of them have these driver assistance packages.
Pricing
The price of the CX-5 begins at $30,880 (Maxx 4x2). That is above-average for the class, though not by much considering the base pricing of most compact SUVs is $23,000. The Akera AWD, however, retails at $51,330. The cost of insuring the CX-5 depends on the type and inclusions requested by the owner. It comes with an unlimited-kilometre warranty that covers the vehicle for 5 years, 6-year anti-corrosion assurance, and 5-year roadside assistance.
Final thoughts
The 2020 Mazda CX-5 is a premium offering within the compact crossover class due to its many features. The material quality, performance, and appearance contribute to its strengths. Overall, it is well priced and a good option for suburban users.
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