New Models New Mazda CX-5: Successful Evolution

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The Japanese manufacturer's bestseller is entering its third round: with plenty of space, a new operating concept and an attractive price-performance ratio. Consequently, the manufacturer's expectations are high.

For most of 2025, German Mazda dealers had to do without their bestseller CX-5 as part of the changeover from the second to the third model generation. The order books for the new compact crossover model have been open since last fall.

According to Mazda Germany Sales Director Felix Gebhart, the Leverkusen-based importer has already received around 2,000 orders, although the model will not physically roll into dealerships until April. The Mazda manager expects around 10,000 units to be sold by the end of the year. The CX-5 is expected to make a significant contribution to Mazda breaking the magic 50,000-unit barrier again in Germany in 2026, after a good 40,700 new registrations in 2025.

Surprise With the Price

While the first generation of the CX-5 launched in 2012 was a real revolution—it was the first Mazda model with the new Kodo design and the new Skyactiv powertrains under the hood—the third generation is more of an evolution of the popular crossover SUV. You have to look closely to recognize the details of the refined Kodo design language. The changes are most noticeable in the visually steeper rear: between the rear lights, which have now been given a wing design, the Mazda logo is no longer emblazoned, but the lettering of the Japanese brand.

However, a lot has changed in other areas—from the larger dimensions and the engine, which has been given more displacement, to the redesigned interior and the touchscreen-based operating concept. The price has also moved—and uncharacteristically not upwards, but downwards. The basic version of the CX-5 is $38,000 USD less expensive than the comparable predecessor model when adjusted for equipment.

Generous Space; Full Hybrid Planned

The dimensions of the CX-5 have grown: the new model is a full 4.5 inches longer than its predecessor. At a good 9 feet, the wheelbase is generously dimensioned. This is of particular benefit to the occupants in the rear, as well as their luggage: the trunk of the new CX-5 generation holds a decent 153 gallons—16 gallons more than its predecessor. The rear doors open remarkably wide, making it easier for rear passengers to get in. Another new feature is the 40:20:40 folding bench seat, the backrests of which can be tilted slightly to increase seating comfort.

Mazda has also made changes to the powertrains: The manufacturer has dropped the diesel engine due to a lack of international demand. Instead, there will be a full hybrid version of the CX-5 in the future. Further technical details are not yet available. It is also not yet clear exactly when the new drive will be available. Mazda has a partnership with Toyota for hybrid technology.

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Launch Exclusively With Gasoline Engine

At market launch, the crossover model is only available as a 0.66-gallon mild hybrid petrol engine, with a choice of front or all-wheel drive and always coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission. Compared to the 0.53-gallon engine of its predecessor, Mazda promises a more confident power delivery, a more responsive response and greater efficiency.

On a test drive with the front-wheel drive CX-5, which mainly took place on the highway and on country roads, the engine cut a fine figure. Even if the 104 kW/141 hp output and the maximum torque of 238 Nm of the revised four-cylinder engine are not outstanding on paper, nor are the almost eleven seconds that the CX-5 needs to sprint from 0 to 60 mph, the test drive did not give the impression that the drive is too weak on the chest.

Smooth Running With Expected Consumption

Instead, it scored points with its smooth running, pleasant acceleration and direct handling. However, the maximum speed limit on the test track was 75 mph. The CX-5 could be the wrong choice for fast drivers who do a lot of overtaking on the highway. The engine is designed more for comfortable cruising.

Mazda gives the combined WLTP fuel consumption as 31 to 34 mpg per 62 miles, depending on the model. The on-board computer reported 1.7 gallons of fuel consumption after a long stretch on the freeway, while the figure for country roads was a good 2.0 gallons.

The manufacturer also succeeded in tuning the steel spring suspension—the SUV mastered poor road surfaces with ease, even without electronic dampers, as well as tight bends. In combination with a pleasantly quiet noise level in the generously dimensioned interior, the CX-5 is an ideal long-distance companion.

Google Has Found Its Way into the CX-5

The interior of the CX-5 can certainly be described as a small revolution: Not only in terms of interior design, but above all in terms of operation. The new CX-5 is the first Mazda model to feature a newly developed control system with Google technology and smartphone logic. The manufacturer is thus bidding farewell to its previous operating concept, which was based on a large rotary switch in the center console. Mazda's declared aim was to keep driver distraction to a minimum. After the test drive, we can say: hook on.

The heart of the new, wide-looking dashboard is a touchscreen, which is 12.9 or 15.6 inches in size depending on the equipment, and offers numerous customization options. All functions, including climate control, can be controlled via the screen in landscape format. The individual tiles are arranged so logically that, with a little practice, you can quickly reach your desired destination, especially as frequently used functions are positioned higher up and are permanently visible.

For the First Time With Google, Soon With AI Assistant

If you don't want to do without haptic buttons, you can still use the steering wheel. The button to the left of the steering wheel is also very welcome: it can be used to switch off annoying acoustic warnings.

A 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster is positioned directly above the steering wheel. There is also an optional head-up display with a generously dimensioned windshield projection. This also helps you to concentrate fully on the road.

Mazda is also making a major innovative leap in voice control: the "Google Assistant" is on board for the market launch of the model, and the "Gemini 2" AI assistant is expected to be introduced later this year via an update. Even with the standard assistant, essential vehicle functions such as air conditioning and infotainment can be controlled by voice. In future, passengers will be able to converse with Gemini in natural language.

Mazda has made improvements to the assistance systems: There is now an assistant that alerts the driver to hazards when turning and an emergency assistant that brings the vehicle to a standstill if the driver does not react to a dangerous situation.

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The Basic Version is Already Well Equipped

Mazda relies on tried-and-tested equipment variants: Buyers have the choice between the familiar "Prime-Line", "Center-Line", "Exclusive-Line" and "Homura". Even the basic version comes with dual-zone automatic air conditioning, a reversing camera with trailer assist, automatic headlights and headlights, LED headlights with LED daytime running lights and wired Apple Car Play and Android Auto as standard. Despite the already well-equipped basic version, the Leverkusen-based importer expects around 70 percent of buyers to opt for the top Homura equipment.

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