AS with the Volvo XC90 elsewhere in this section, this car, Mazda's CX-5, is an established Drive favourite, writes William Scholes.
The family SUV has had several updates over the years, and is receiving another one in time for the start of 2022.
As is the way of these things, we can expect some exterior changes, upgraded interior tech, new trim levels and a wide range of powertrains.
Trim levels include the established SE-L, Sport and GT Sport grades, to which are added new Sport Black and Newground versions.
SE-L is the entry point to the new CX-5 range, starting at £27,845, and is available with a 163bhp petrol engine or 148bhp and 181bhp diesel engines. Newground is a new trim level and is only offered with the aforementioned petrol engine, starting at £28,845. It’s pitched at people with active lifestyles and comes with rear silver underguard trims, 19-inch alloy wheels, and a reversible waterproof boot floor.
Sport is expected to be the biggest seller, coming with the same choice of petrol and diesel engines; the higher-powered diesel is available with a choice of front- or all-wheel-drive. This trim starts at £30,945.
Sport Black is only available with the petrol engine and adds gloss black styling touches to the exterior, as well as bringing black leather upholstery, with prices starting at £32,945. GT Sport tops the range, priced from £33,345, and has a choice of 163bhp or 191bhp petrol engine or 181bhp diesel engine.
Equipment-wise, the CX-5 gets a new wireless phone charger in the centre console and improved standard-fit safety systems, while the adaptive LED headlights have been enhanced.
Jeremy Thomson, managing director of Mazda Motors UK, said: “The Mazda CX-5 is an incredibly important car in Mazda’s history. From the launch of the original first-generation car in 2012 it has been a hugely popular choice for UK SUV buyers, who have loved its style, quality and driver engagement."
