The 2014 Mazda CX-5 represents a whole new approach for the Japanese carmaker in the way it goes about producing vehicles. With their new SKYACTIV-Chassis construction philosophy, Mazda claims to have reinvented the way they design and build cars, and the first model they built this way is the Mazda CX-5.
The Mazda CX-5 is a small crossover SUV, which certainly isn't revolutionary, but it is quite handsome. The vehicle features attractive exterior styling that keeps with its Mazda CX-7 and Mazda CX-9 siblings, but also looking forward, with a nod to Mazda's KODO "soul of motion" design mantra.
At the heart of the Mazda CX-5 is its advanced powertrain. The base engine, Mazda's SKYACTIV-G 2.0L 4-cylinder, features variable valve timing, advanced direct injection to stabilize combustion, an impressive 13:1 compression ratio and an innovative piston cavity to improve combustion efficiency. The result is good for 155 hp and 150 ft-lb of torque, with up to 35 mpg achievable on the highway with the correct transmission. New for 2014 is an optional 2.5L engine. Standard on Touring and Grand Touring models, the 2.5L produces 184 hp while still achieving over 30 mpg on the highway.
Power runs through a 6-speed transmission--either manual or automatic. When equipped, the 2.0L powered Mazda CX-5 is EPA rated at 26 mpg city and 35 mpg highway. The automatic is called SKYACTIV-Drive and incorporates a torque converter and clutch in one unit to deliver smooth, direct shifts, along with an advanced control module. The result is a 4- to 7-percent increase in fuel efficiency.
The Mazda CX-5 comes in three trim levels: Sport, Touring and Grand Touring. Sport offers the manual transmission as standard, as well as halogen headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, power windows and locks, cruise control, remote entry, 4-speaker CD/MP3 stereo, cloth seating and a 60/40 split fold-down rear seat. Touring adds the bigger engine and niceties such as halogen fog lights, dual illuminated vanity mirrors, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, 6-speaker stereo, 6-way power driver's seat, premium cloth seating and a 40/20/40 dual split one-touch folding rear seat. Grand Touring offers even more, with standard rain-sensing wipers, power moonroof, heated side mirrors, 19-inch alloy wheels, Bose 9-speaker surround sound stereo with Sirius XM satellite radio, an 8-way power driver's seat, heated front seats and leather trim.
A Bluetooth Audio Package available on Sport models adds Bluetooth, HD radio and a 5.8-inch monitor. The Moonroof and Bose Package on Touring models adds the power moonroof and Bose stereo, while a Touring Technology Package adds Adaptive Bi-Xenon HID headlights, TomTom navigation, and more. A similar package is also available on the Grand Touring.
Safety is paramount in the new Mazda CX-5 and standard features include a bevy of front and side airbags, anti-lock braking, and stability control. Blind Spot Monitoring and a rear backup camera are optional on Touring and Grand Touring.
Maneuverability And Handling
Excellent Fuel Efficiency
Sporty Design
Available 6-speed Manual Transmission
Standard Safety Features
Mazda has introduced a new optional engine for 2014, a 2.5L 4-cylinder, producing more power than the standard 2.0L engine. The new engine features much of the same technology 2.0L and should entice buyers who are looking for a bit more power and acceleration as well as for more relaxed cruising on the highway.
The small crossover segment is a crowded one, and the Mazda CX-5 sets itself apart thanks both to its attractive styling and its efficient technologies. The company's SKYACTIV-G engines and transmissions have been designed from the ground up to deliver typical Mazda sporting performance, while also maximizing fuel and mechanical efficiency The Mazda CX-5 (along with the popular Mazda3) is the first vehicle to showcase this new philosophy. With room for five adults, a sport-tuned suspension, impressive ratings of 26 mpg city and 35 mpg highway fuel economy and loads of available comfort and convenience technologies, the Mazda CX-5 is a great alternative to the rest of the crossover field.
