Since its debut in Australia back in 2012, the Mazda CX-5 has been a consistent crowd-pleaser. With its blend of sleek design, engaging driving dynamics, and practicality, it’s no wonder Aussies have embraced it. But in a market teeming with medium SUVs, can the CX-5 still hold its own? Let’s dive into the details.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Sure-Footed Driving Dynamics: The CX-5’s handling remains a standout feature. Whether you’re navigating city streets or winding country roads, it feels planted and responsive.
• 40:20:40 Seat Split: Practicality matters, and the flexible rear seat configuration makes it easy to accommodate passengers and cargo.
• Peppy Engine: The 2.5-liter petrol engine delivers a satisfying punch, especially when you need to merge onto the highway.

Cons

• Thirsty on Fuel: The CX-5’s appetite for petrol can be a drawback, especially during city commutes.
• Mid-Row Space: While comfortable, the second-row space isn’t the roomiest in its class.
• Dated Infotainment Hardware: The infotainment system could use a modern update.

How Much Does it Cost?

The 2024 CX-5 starts at a competitive price of $36,590 (excluding on-road costs) for the base G25 Maxx Sport FWD. Prices climb steadily as you move up the trim ladder, reaching $55,000 for the range-topping Akera AWD.

Features and Benefits

The 2024 CX-5 Touring comes with several noteworthy features:

• 19-Inch Machined Alloy Wheels: Upgraded from the previous 17-inch wheels.
• Black Leather-Look ‘Maztex’ Seat Trim: A touch of luxury.
• 10.25-Inch Infotainment System: Now standard across the range, complete with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Safety

The CX-5 boasts a 5-star safety rating, offering peace of mind on the road. Standard safety features include:

• Advanced Smart City Brake Support
• Blind Spot Monitoring
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert

A Mid-Size SUV with a Dash of Zoom-Zoom

Running Costs

The good news? The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine offers decent fuel efficiency, with Mazda claiming a combined fuel consumption of 7.2L/100km for the FWD models and slightly higher for the AWD variants. While the diesel option has been discontinued, the petrol engine should prove affordable to run for most drivers.

The Competition

The mid-size SUV segment is a crowded battlefield. The CX-5 faces stiff competition from established rivals like the Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson, and Mitsubishi Outlander. While some competitors offer more powerful engines, the CX-5 counters with its superior driving dynamics and stylish design.

Conclusion

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 remains a compelling choice in the Australian mid-size SUV market. It offers a winning combination of style, handling, features, and safety, all wrapped up in a package that’s easy on the wallet. While the lack of a diesel option might disappoint some, the petrol engine remains a sensible choice for most drivers.

Rating: 8.5/10

The CX-5 might not be the most powerful or spacious option out there, but it excels in the areas that truly matter for many drivers – driving pleasure, everyday comfort, and a touch of luxury. It’s a well-rounded SUV that deserves a spot on your shortlist if you’re in the market for something stylish, engaging, and practical.