Mazda has been relatively quiet in South Africa over the past few years, particularly since Covid, but the brand is slowly starting to find its way back into the spotlight. It’s not an easy task, especially with the growing Chinese onslaught bringing increasingly well-equipped and competitively priced SUVs to our market, but Mazda clearly has a plan, and the new CX-5 is going to play a big part in it. Taking over from one of Mazda’s best-selling models locally, the new CX-5 stays true to the brand’s Kodo design philosophy and, in my opinion, looks fantastic. The styling is clean, sophisticated and unmistakably Mazda, with a great selection of colours available, although the Soul Red was the one that really caught my eye as it popped under the Highveld sunlight. It has the presence of a premium SUV without going overboard with unnecessary styling, which is something Mazda has always managed to get right.
Power comes from a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 132kW and 240Nm, which is more than adequate for everyday driving and provides enough punch when you need to pick up pace or overtake. The six-speed automatic gearbox, however, does let the package down slightly, with the revs climbing higher than expected and the transmission sometimes holding onto gears unnecessarily. A turbocharged engine or a newer gearbox would certainly make the CX-5 even more appealing, particularly when compared with some of the newer competition. Where the CX-5 really impressed me was its ride quality. Whether cruising on the highway or travelling over gravel roads, the suspension remained composed and comfortable, making it feel like a vehicle that would be equally at home as a daily commuter or on a long-distance road trip. The interior has also received a significant overhaul, with the standout feature being the large 12.9-inch infotainment screen, along with a digital instrument cluster and leather-wrapped steering wheel. Wireless CarPlay was somewhat tricky to get working during my drive, eventually requiring a USB-C connection, but with two USB-C ports up front, there is still plenty of convenience.
The new CX-5 is available in four trim levels – Active, Dynamic, Individual and Homura – giving buyers a range of options depending on their budget and desired level of specification. Starting at R578,500, the CX-5 enters an extremely competitive mid-size SUV market, but Mazda is banking on more than just specification and pricing to win buyers over. There is a loyal following for the brand in South Africa, and the CX-5 combines that established reputation with attractive styling, improved technology, excellent comfort and a familiar driving experience. Order books are already open, with the first shipment reportedly almost secured, which shows that there is still a strong appetite for what Mazda offers. The Chinese competition may have changed the game, but the new CX-5 shows that Mazda isn't sitting back – it has a product that could help the brand find its voice again in South Africa.
Pricing and trim levels:
2.5L Active - R578,500
2.5L Dynamic - R636,000
2.5L Individual - R717,000
2.5L Homura - R749,100
