Mazda’s all-new CX-5 has been officially launched across Ireland, we’ve been one of the first to take it for a test drive. The CX-5 is the first of a new generation of Mazda’s to feature their new SKYACTIV Technology, which will be rolled out across all future models. SKYACTIV Technology consists of a completely new design with a new chassis, new transmissions and a lightweight body which results in delivering excellent driveability coupled with low fuel consumption and low emissions.
The Mazda CX-5 is on sale now with prices commencing from €25,195 for the 2.0-litre 165hp petrol model which we wouldn’t envisage to be a key seller. The 2.2-litre diesel on the other hand will account for the majority of sales, it’s available with two power outputs 150hp & 175hp. The 150hp two-wheel-drive model is available across three trim specifications, with prices starting from €28,245 for the Executive model. The mid-range Sport grade is our choice pick (€29,495) it comes liberally equipped as standard with 17” alloys, cruise control, climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, parking sensors, rear camera and a touch-screen infotainment system with integrated Tom-Tom® Sat Nav all included. Thanks to low CO2 emissions of 119g/100kms it’s seated in tax band A, with €160 annual road tax. It’s fuel efficient too, delivering 4.6l/100km on a combined run. Standard across all grades is Mazda’s Smart City Brake Support, which will help prevent a low speed frontal collision.
It was this 2.2-litre 150hp diesel version in Sport guise that we drove, across a mix of twisty country roads. First impressions are very positive, the CX-5 handles the bumps and curves of the road with impeccable manners, the chassis is more akin to an MX-5 than an SUV and offers reassurance when cornering. The six-speed manual gearbox offers short precise gear changes and thanks to an abundance of torque on offer (380 Nm) you don’t need to drop a gear that often. There’s also a six-speed automatic transmission available. It’s the only SUV I’ve driven that offers such an enjoyable driving experience, it fits the bill perfectly for use as a family car, which is the whole point of SUV’s, nevertheless thanks to its impressive driving dynamics it can also be enjoyed as a driver’s car. Mazda seem to have studied their MX-5 when designing and building this all-new CX-5, and incorporated the best bits from the MX-5 that have resulted in it becoming the world’s favourite roadster. If the CX-5 is a insight into SKYACTIV Technology then we can’t wait for Mazda’s future models. Our advice is to pop along to your local Mazda dealer and take a CX-5 for a test drive and you’ll see why it’s impressed us greatly. In the meantime click here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9l6-cr9Jhrg&feature=uploademail to view a short video clip of the Mazda CX-5.
