Mazda CX-5 e-Skyactiv G 194 AWD - no dazzler
Cars from Mazda are often somewhat outside the mainstream in terms of technology. In the case of the CX-5, this may even seem backward at times. But its consistency is not necessarily a bad thing. The advanced model is both modern and conventional at the same time.
More and more new car brands and more and more models with new technology are entering the German car market. So it can be a comforting feeling to see an old acquaintance in the Mazda CX-5 in the test fleet alongside many Far Eastern newcomers. The current generation has been on the market for almost seven years and has always been carefully developed further. The latest innovation is a 24-volt mild hybrid solution, which also helps the top-of-the-range G 194 petrol engine we tested to save fuel. Despite or thanks to this rather small-scale drive electrification, the compact SUV remains true to itself.
The CX-5 is not particularly conspicuous on the road. Four-and-a-half meter long SUVs have long been a defining species on the roads. The Mazda version is one of the inconspicuously well-proportioned representatives of the genre, although in the top Takumi trim level tested by us for just under 50,000 euros, it struts along on stylish 19-inch wheels and, thanks to Matrix LED technology, looks quite boldly out of its headlight slits.
Incidentally, the adaptive light is not only a stylish accent, but also a useful aid that ensures optimum visibility in the dark without disturbing other road users. In one way or another: The CX-5 is no dazzler.
Plenty of space
In keeping with its size, there is plenty of space. Both in the front and rear, the CX-5 accommodates adult guests well. The trunk holds 522 liters of luggage. An amazingly light intermediate floor can be lowered to the loading sill or alternatively a quarter of a level lower. This means that small items can be stowed out of sight under the false floor or, alternatively, larger items of luggage can be loaded if required.
Thanks to the split folding seat backrest, the longitudinal storage space can be flexibly extended to a maximum of 1652 liters. The 4.58-meter-long Japanese vehicle even offers sufficient capacity for camping vacations with a tent, children and luggage.
Unlike the fully digital cockpit of the large CX-60, the older CX-5 still has a mix of analog round instruments and a medium-sized central display. In addition to an analog round speedometer, the latter also shows graphics such as the distance display from the adaptive cruise control. Driving-relevant information also comes into the driver's field of vision via a head-up display.
Thanks to the rotary pushbutton in the center console for controlling the infotainment system, the driver usually has a good view of the traffic situation. In some situations, this solution seems cumbersome compared to direct finger commands on the touchscreen. The display even allows touch control, but the driver has to reach far too far forward to use it. As a result, fingerprints do not usually get in the way when looking at the flat and wide screen.
The integration of smartphones via Android Auto or Apple Carplay works well. The desired climate can be adjusted in a self-explanatory and straightforward manner, as there is still a classic control island with real buttons in the center console.
Our test model is dominated by black, with many chrome accents providing an attractive contrast. Soft leather-look surfaces, a little high-gloss black and an accurate finish create a pleasing, but also slightly undercooled ambience. Mazda shows that it is possible to achieve a more homely and high-quality ambience in the new and higher-positioned CX-60, for example.
A naturally aspirated petrol engine with a comparatively large displacement
Despite being upgraded with mild hybrid technology, the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is experienced as a classic petrol engine. Instead of downsizing and turbocharging, Mazda relies on a naturally aspirated petrol engine with a comparatively large displacement in combination with a six-speed automatic gearbox that changes gears rather sedately. Nowadays, however, the standard is an automatic gearbox that juggles the gears nimbly and a turbocharged petrol engine that is powerful even at low engine speeds thanks to its high torque.
Anyone familiar with these turbocharged joys will miss the Mazda's little oomph of character from below. If torque is required, revs are needed. The petrol engine delivers these willingly, accompanied by a throaty sound. The very linear acceleration of the four-cylinder engine also provides a certain amount of propulsive pleasure. After all, the 1.6-tonner sprints from a standstill to 100 km/h in 9.3 seconds, with a maximum speed of 195 km/h.
Restrained hybrid
While the 48-volt hybrid systems with e-boost that are now standard with many manufacturers intervene in propulsion, the 24-volt system of the CX-5 also exercises restraint. The generation of electricity and the small e-boost, as well as the occasional cylinder deactivation, remain below the threshold of perception. Only the automatic engine shutdowns at traffic lights are more noticeable. The fuel consumption advantage is similarly discreet. In our case, we consumed 7.5 liters per 100 kilometers, which is just below the standard value of 7.6 liters. For comparison: in a test with the CX-5 G 194 without mild hybrid technology last year, the figure was 7.8 liters.
The CX-5 is at the cutting edge when it comes to assistance systems. In addition to the aforementioned Matrix LED lights with automatic high beam and the head-up display, there is traffic sign recognition, collision avoidance, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system. Together, the systems ensure safety and relaxation, especially on long journeys.
However, the technology also comes at a price. If you want the CX-5 with a top-of-the-range petrol engine, you will have to invest at least 40,500 euros. Our test car also came in the top Takumi trim and with high-traction all-wheel drive, which pushes the price to just under the 50,000 euro threshold. A little over 50,000 euros is also possible if you order the optional extras glass sunroof and metallic paintwork.
Technical data Mazda CX-5 e-Skyactiv-G 194 AWD
- Five-door SUV
- Length: 4.58 meters, width: 1.85 meters (with exterior mirrors: 2.12 meters), height: 1.68 meters, wheelbase: 2.70 meters, trunk capacity: 522-1652 liters
- 2.5-liter four-cylinder in-line engine with cylinder deactivation, 143 kW/194 hp, maximum torque 258 Nm at 4,000 rpm, 6-speed automatic transmission
- 0-100 km/h: 9.3 sec, Vmax: 195 km/h
- Fuel consumption 7.6 l Super/100 km (WLTP), test consumption: 7.5 liters, CO2 emissions (WLTP): 171 g/km, emissions standard: Euro 6d-ISC-FCM
- Price: from 42,490 euros, test car price: 50,190 euros
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Source: www.ntv.de
