Mazda CX-5 2012-2015

Based on the Minagi concept, Mazda launched the first CX-5 model in 2012, which shared the platform used by the third generation Mazda 3 and the third generation Mazda 6.

Regarding the exterior design, the style inspired by the silhouette of a cheetah, made the CX-5 perfectly represent the Japanese minimalist style, with simple lines and shapes, slanted headlights at the back and a wide grille.

The same design language can be found in the interior, where Mazda has brought simple, minimalist elements, inspired by the MX5 model and the 6 series.

Thanks to SkyActiv technologies, the CX-5 had a lighter chassis, new suspension settings, more economical engines and new transmissions. Thus, the CX-5 was equipped with a 2.0-liter PE-VPS four-cylinder gasoline engine, capable of 165 HP, but also a 2.2-liter SH-VPTS turbocharged diesel version with up to 175 HP.

Mazda CX-5 Facelift 2015-2016

In 2015, Mazda launched the facelift version of the CX-5 bringing some improvements. The exterior has been refreshed and integrates a new front grille, along with a redesigned spoiler, which are framed by new adaptive headlights with individual LED blocks.

The interior was also refreshed, especially in the area of the instrument cluster. The facelift model also received an improved infotainment system, as well as a sport mode for the six-speed automatic transmission.

Mazda CX-5 from 2015 could be configured in five engine variants – 2.0-liter SKYACTIV-G – 165 or 160 HP (for the 4×4 version), 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G – 192 HP, respectively 2.2-liter SKYACTIV-D – 150 or 175 hp.

Mazda CX-5 2017-2021

In 2016, Mazda revealed the second generation of CX-5 at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The changes bring an evolution of the design language officially called Kodo, especially in the front area. The optical blocks are much thinner and sit at the ends of a huge grille, emphasized by a chrome element that continues below the headlights.

The interior comes with major changes compared to the previous generation. The dashboard is more minimalist and the center console has been raised for more comfortable access to the gear shifter. The central display has a diagonal of 7.0 inches and is doubled by a 4.6-inch TFT screen in the dashboard area and by a head-up display system.

Under the hood, Mazda does not bring major changes, the CX-5 offering the same units that we found on the previous model, only with more power.

Mazda CX-5 Facelift 2021-Present

In 2021, Mazda introduced the facelift variant for the CX-5, which raised even more the degree of refinement and technology of the Japanese SUV. The front of the new CX-5 has a new three-dimensional grille, a signature design in the form of a wing and restyled adaptive LED headlights.

Inside, Mazda has introduced restyled elements and a lot of technology. For example, wireless charging, Mi-Drive, which allows the driver to select the most suitable driving mode with a single touch of a switch, and updates to the body, suspension and seats have increased driving comfort.

At the same time, three new equipment levels are available: Newground, Homura and High+.

All US-spec CX-5 models, regardless of trim, now come standard with i-Activ AWD. Mazda’s unique i-Activ AWD system continuously monitors weight transfer, based on acceleration and steering forces, and transfers power to the appropriate wheels, giving drivers near-instant response.

Under the hood, the new CX-5 has 2 petrol engine versions (2.0 SKYACTIV-G 165 HP and 2.5 SKYACTIV-G 194 HP or the Turobo variant with 227 HP) and 2 diesel engines (2.2 SKYACTIV-CD of 150 and 184 respectively CP). Depending on the version, the engines are mated to a manual gearbox or a torque converter automatic, both with six ratios.