Mazda’s CX-5 is an ever-evolving, affordable yet classy mid-size SUV. In true Mazda fashion, simplicity and beauty are at the forefront of its design. This philosophy is apparent through all three currently available packages, with the Core, Core Plus, and Sport sharing the same base shape while boasting easily distinguishable yet subtle features. Their prices and trim vary to provide an enjoyable experience based on the needs of any buyer.
The CX-5 now follows Mazda’s KODO DESIGN principles more than ever with its new front end sporting a serene yet powerful expression while the lack of unnecessary body lines and seams radiate natural beauty and a futuristic feel. Each body panel displays Mazda’s meticulous craftsmanship as the subtle angles and curves play with light and shadows to breathe life and soul into the car’s design. No matter the setting or your CX-5’s trim, it remains a head-turner.
Speaking of trim, the Core package is the entry model of the CX-5, sporting the expected essential features of a modern vehicle such as a reverse camera, smart key, Push-To-Start, automatic lighting (and wiper) control, and mobile interfacing in the form of Android Auto and Apple Car Play. The interior maintains the luxurious feel of previous models, with a beautifully designed instrument cluster, fighter-plane-styled air conditioning vents, and a classy chrome finish on every interior element. Unlike some of its competitors, the solid, multifunctional steering wheel sits perfectly aligned with the driver, proving even in small ways just how focused the car is on driving enjoyment. The adequately sized smartphone interface sits atop the centre dash, offset just enough to stay out of the driver’s immediate line of sight but close enough to be easily within reach, operated by a rotary dial on the center console providing a refreshingly effortless and intuitive way to navigate your system. Cargo space is also abundant, with a more than adequate trunk volume and many little bins and nooks in the cabin to store small items and essentials.
Carrying large loads or the entire family is no issue thanks to the CX-5’s 2.0 Litre SKYACTIV 4 cylinder which sends a healthy 155hp to the ten-spoke alloy front wheels wrapped in 225/55/R17 tyres. All packages share this engine as well as a plethora of driving assists including but not limited to stability control, ABS, traction control, and an emergency stop signal system. Safety was a top priority for Mazda, as the CX-5 was the 2022 IIHS top safety pick, earning a maximum 5-star score in crash testing, with 6 airbags available as standard for the best safety performance.
At $326K, the Core package provides a well-rounded and enjoyable driving experience. However, for those seeking even more luxury, the Core Plus includes all the features available to the Core, with some certainly desirable upgrades. Leather, powered seats now come as an option, accompanied by a Bose sound system, gorgeous daytime running lights, and more aggressively styled 19-inch rims with 225/55/R19 sport tyres (shared with the Sport Edition).
Front and rear parking sensors are also available, as well as a 360-degree camera, making parking an absolute breeze. One of the coolest features of modern cars can be found in the Core Plus package; a Heads Up Display. The HUD projects essential information directly below the driver’s natural line of sight, making even the most mundane journey exciting as you feel like you’re piloting a spaceship. The Core Plus certainly punches above its weight in the SUV market, competing more with ultra-luxurious SUVs than its entry-level price tag ($366K) would ever suggest. Last, but certainly not least, the Sport Edition further enhances the CX-5 driving experience with paddle shifters coming as standard to keep the driver fully engaged with the car’s 6 Speed Activematic Transmission, and able to extract every bit of performance possible from the highly responsive 2.0 SKYACTIV engine. This model comes with gloss wheel arch and front end finishers as well as interior LED lighting, larger exhaust tips and a custom interior trim. The Sport Edition adds the “chic-classy flair” often only dreamed about at this price range. The iconic red grille badge distinguishes the Sport from all other packages, making known to all that you are driving the CX-5's ultimate incarnation. Naturally, this comes at a cost. $401K to be exact. Some would say it is a small price to pay for that extra premium feel.
It is also worth noting that all packages have the same stunning paint options and similar performance, fuel economy and comfort, though the prestige of the Core Plus and Sport Edition, coupled with the extra features puts the CX-5 a notch higher on the luxury SUV ladder. All things considered, the three grades of the CX-5 all share the same poise and beauty that sets the CX-5 apart from every other SUV on the market, truly showing three dimensions of elegance to meet any driver’s desires.
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