Review
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and where the Mazda CX-5 is concerned I’m struggling to be swayed by the SUV’s looks. Its mid-life update focused on the interior in an effort to increase its fleet appeal for which the manufacturer deserves credit.
However, on the exterior, while lights and grille have been tweaked, it perhaps lacks the desirability that the interior now demands. It is especially important when most manufacturers now have SUVs in their model line-up to tempt fleet buyers.
But what the CX-5 may lack in looks, it easily makes up for elsewhere, with the manufacturer delivering a practical car that is also fun to drive.
The 2015 CX-5 model range is available in three grades: SE-L, SE-L Lux and Sport Nav, comprising three 2.0-litre petrol two-wheel drive variants equipped with six-speed manual transmissions, and 13 2.2-litre diesel versions – six of which are available with all-wheel drive – fitted with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions.
Our version, the SE-L NAV 2WD, delivers 0-62mph in 9.2 seconds thanks to its 2.2-litre Skyactiv engine, while CO2 emissions have been restricted to 119g/km. That means company car drivers can enjoy the power and performance the CX-5 delivers while only paying 21% benefit-in-kind tax.
It also boasts a claimed combined fuel economy of 61.4mpg, but in tests so far we are only achieving 45mpg.
Meanwhile, in terms of practicality, the CX-5 is a true SUV, delivering a spacious cabin and a cavernous boot. The cabin can comfortably seat five adults, while a generously-sized 503-litre boot increases to 1,620 litres when the three- way-split rear seats are folded.
It’s yet another reason not to judge a book by its cover and why the CX-5 will give its rivals a run for their money.
