Almost New Buying Guide: Mazda CX-5 Car News

In the crowded used family SUV industry, the Mazda CX-5 stands out as a stylish, well-equipped, reliable and fun-to-drive choice. The current model launched at the end of 2017. Forecourt prices start at around £ 9,000 for a 2017 high-mileage diesel, but really drop to around £ 11,500 for those with less miles.

The range is simple. Starting with the versions, there were only two from launch, both well equipped, called SE-L Nav and Sport Nav. In early 2019, they became more improved SE-L + and Sport Nav +, while a newer called GT Sport Nav + joined the lineup.

The engines are no less simple. From launch there was a single gasoline, a 163-horsepower 2.0-liter unit (which was only recently joined by a 191-horsepower 2.5-liter) and a choice of two 2.2 diesels. liters, one producing 148 horsepower and the other 173 horsepower. Later, the 173 hp diesel was increased to 181 hp. An automatic transmission has always been an option.

Did you notice anything unusual? These are surely those big engines. While other automakers have actively downsized and augmented using turbochargers and hybrid powertrains, Mazda has retained the mantra “there is no replacement for displacement”. Fortunately, they are all reasonably effective.

Unsurprisingly, diesels are daring but laid back performers. There isn’t much of a difference between the two, so you don’t need to feel plump for the less potent unit. Gasoline is smooth and fun to drive around town, but on the open road you miss out on the effortless power of diesel, especially at low revs.

In terms of availability, gasoline CX-5s comfortably outnumber diesel engines. Manuals are also more numerous than automatic ones, but there are still a lot of them.

Another thing that sets the CX-5 apart from most of its rivals is that instead of the ubiquitous infotainment touchscreen, it has a rotary controller. It’s not as stylish as BMW’s system, but it gets the job done and is easy to use. The interior of the CX-5 is spacious and comfortable, but not quite up to the level of an Audi or a BMW. If full phone compatibility is important to you, it should be noted that Apple CarPlay and Android Auto only appeared in 2019.

In addition to checking that the service history is complete and that the bodywork is free of dents and scratches (ditto for the interiors of station wagons), there is not much to notify a buyer of. CX-5. Check that the sat-nav has its SD card and that it will accept a full zip code; if not, a software update may be required. As for the diesels, make sure there is no oil smoke or evidence of DPF issues.

Not much, is it? It’s something else that separates the CX-5 from the rest: it’s easy to get along.

Must know

Diesel return between 52mpg and 56mpg on the combined cycle and gasoline 44mpg. The automatic gearbox reduces these numbers by about 5mpg.