by Most mid-priced crossovers are hard to call interesting to drive. Generally, comfort takes the forefront during their creation – after all, these cars are mostly bought for families. However, there are exceptions like the Mazda CX-5. The Mazda crossover has undergone a slight update, and we decided to get acquainted with the 2021 model.
The design of the 2021 Mazda CX-5 hasn’t changed: a long hood, a large smile-shaped grille, and slanted LED headlights are the signature features of the Japanese brand’s style. The top version, like ours, is recognizable by its 19-inch alloy wheels.
There are no questions about the quality of the finishing materials. Not all competitors in this class offer Nappa leather, like in the most expensive 2021 Mazda CX-5. The interior also features plenty of wood and black lacquered plastic.
The three-spoke steering wheel is small and not overloaded with buttons. The dashboard layout with the speedometer display in the center is familiar from both the larger Mazda CX-9 and the smaller Mazda CX-30. There’s also a heads-up display.
The touchscreen on the central panel has been increased to 8 inches in diagonal. It is positioned quite high, and you have to reach for it. However, to navigate the menu there’s also a round joystick with a set of buttons located near the gear lever. Right there is also the climate control block, which is typical for Mazda.
Of course, the multimedia includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, though you have to connect your smartphone to the USB port hidden in the armrest compartment (not on the central panel). This is perhaps the only remark regarding ergonomics.
The front seats of the Mazda CX-5 are comfortable and support the back well. They come with electric adjustment, and the driver also has memory settings. Additionally, heating and ventilation are provided, and the steering wheel is heated too. The seating position is high, and visibility is commendable (especially with the surround view cameras available).
The second row has quite enough space for three adults of average build – there’s room for legs, and headroom is sufficient. Rear passengers also have heated seats and a pair of USB ports in the armrest.
Luggage volume is 477-1377 liters. The opening is wide, the loading height is low, and there’s an electric door drive. Ideally, a spare tire would be nice, but there’s a subwoofer hidden under the floor instead.
The configuration of the Mazda CX-5 in the Tor version is quite rich – keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, electric package, rain and light sensors, Bose acoustics, sunroof, adaptive cruise control. And it comes with a set of electronic assistants – automatic braking, lane and blind spot control, driver fatigue monitoring. Essentially, it has everything you need and even more.
The 2.5-liter 192 hp four-cylinder engine is lively and revs up quickly, and its sound is very pleasant. The maximum 258 Nm of torque is reached at 4000 rpm, but there’s adequate power even at lower revs. Overtaking on the highway or quick maneuvers in the city aren’t a problem, especially since the 6-speed automatic reacts swiftly. The crossover accelerates to 100 km/h in 9.2 seconds.
Fuel consumption is moderate, especially since the engine is complemented with cylinder deactivation functions and stop-start technology. According to the specifications, it claims 9.3 l/100 km in the urban cycle and 6.4 l/100 km on the highway. In Kyiv, with traffic jams and active driving, it results in 10.5-10.8 l/100 km.
The Mazda CX-5 is clearly neither a hot hatch nor a sports car, but its handling is very commendable and without exaggeration one of the best in this class. The steering is precise and sharp, the crossover handles obediently and leans little in corners. There is a sport mode that adds weight to the steering and lets the transmission hold higher engine revs. The suspension is indeed firmer than many competitors’, but not overly so – it handles most potholes well.
Overall, the Mazda CX-5 is a crossover for those who love to drive. If you need a family car with good driving qualities, then the CX-5 is just right. Prices for the model in Ukraine start at 785,900 UAH, while the test car in the Tor version will cost 1,129,600 UAH.
Specifications of Mazda CX-5:
- 4-cylinder gasoline engine, front transverse
- Volume 2488 cm3
- Power 192 hp at 6000 rpm
- Maximum torque 258 Nm at 4000 rpm
- All-wheel drive
- 6-speed automatic transmission
- Maximum speed 195 km/h
- Acceleration 0-100 km/h 9.2 s
- Fuel consumption city/highway 9.3/6.4 l/100 km
- Length/width/height/base 4550/1840/1660/2700 mm
- Luggage volume 477-1377 l
- Ground clearance 200 mm
- Turning circle 11.0 m
