Cars

Mazda CX-5: Gentle tweaks for sharp SUV

Mazda has given its excellent CX-5 a series of minor, blink-and-you'll-miss-it updates

Mazda CX-5
Mazda CX-5 Mazda CX-5

MAZDA has given its excellent CX-5 - one of Drive's favourite SUVs - a series of minor, blink-and-you'll-miss-it updates.

For example, manual petrol models now have cylinder deactivation to improve efficiency, while 'polymetal grey' metallic paint can be ordered across the range and the sat-nav system's map now uses more of the screen's display - there was nothing much wrong with the sharp-looking family wagon, so these are detail improvements.

The 2.0-litre 163bhp petrol engine can be had with a manual or automatic gearbox and is offered in three trim grades - SE-L, Sport and GT Sport.

The 2.2-litre diesel is offered in 148bhp and 182bhp tunes with both gearboxes. The less powerful of the pair is front-wheel-drive and comes with either SE-L or Sport trim; the more powerful engine uses four-wheel-drive and comes in Sport or GT Sport trim.

More than 70 per cent of CX-5 models bought in the UK are in Sport or GT Sport trims.

Mazda Motors UK managing director Jeremy Thomson said that "the CX-5 showcases how Mazda can make an SUV that’s stylish, great to drive and capable of luring customers from premium badged rivals".

"The CX-5 is a sophisticated, practical and stylish SUV, that delivers an outstanding balance of ride and handling," he said - which is exactly why we like it so much, too.

The updated CX-5 range costs from £27,030 to £39,085.