Mazda CX-5 Skyactiv-G 2.0 Review

The Mazda CX-5 Skyactiv-G 2.0 changes, perhaps subtly, its exterior appearance, but the model of Mazda introduces technical novelties of weight that make it one of the most advanced and refined SUV . We have tested the access version in gasoline .

The Mazda CX-5 has always been a vital model in Mazda\’s profit and loss account, more so now, with a market experiencing a growing rush for SUV-cut models.

Therefore renewing a vehicle of this caliber leads to tensions and in the end we can not speak of a completely new generation, although it does introduce changes and improvements of consideration. His line is very continuista , of course, but if we scrape over it we see that there is more work than it seems .

The fontal is sharper, delays the A-pillars at the front 35 mm, reduces the height of the set other 35 and grows 10 mm more in length . The picture is more elegant and dynamic, within margins that have not wanted to risk too much.

Mazda CX-5 Skyactiv-G 2.0: interior

Something similar happens inside . In Mazda they like to refer to the fusion \’Jinba Ittai\’; I prefer to talk about good ergonomics , a very pleasant touch of all the controls that surround the driver and good visibility thanks for its generous height.

Gain points compared to the previous Mazda CX-5 to analyze the comfort, the result of a more intense soundproofing and the new design of front seats that hold more effectively, as well as rear seats that can now regulate the inclination of the backs (40 / 20/40) in two stages. Of course, if we can choose better to flee from the central square, smaller and more uncomfortable than the lateral ones.

The interior is very nice and spacious , although in this sense it does not break records against competing models. The shift lever is closer to a multifunction steering wheel that has also been redesigned.

As standard, with our Zenith finish , it includes a Head-up Display with a retractable transparent screen, located on the control panel, which offers good information without having to look away from the road.

More informative weight has the one located on the dashboard, tactile only when the vehicle is stopped and that is managed with the HMI Commander circular control.

A final wink that makes things easier is the electric gate , also without surcharge and scoop in the range, which gives way to a trunk that caresses 500 liters, generous volume but not a reference.

Mazda CX-5 Skyactiv-G 2.0: technology

Now it\’s time to talk about SKYACTIV technology , in \’Christian\’ solutions to achieve maximum efficiency at the level of chassis, engines, transmissions … Excellent work of Mazda in this field in recent years.

The body is lighter , although it has increased torsional rigidity by 15 percent, and has improved both the steering and suspension and brakes to get a more direct response , more overall comfort and solid stability .

In order to improve the dynamics of the vehicle, it introduces a vital element, such as the G-Vectoring Control . This system analyzes parameters of the steering and accelerator when entering a curve, managing the limit torque received by the front wheels so as not to lose motor skills . That is, it makes us better drivers without us noticing.

Mazda CX-5 Skyactiv-G 2.0: engine

The Mazda CX-5 mechanical offer includes gasoline and diesel versions. Interestingly, Mazda ignores the downsizing trend, so the thrusters of this model do not drop two liters . And according to the results, they achieve an efficiency worthy of being highlighted .

In particular, our protagonist mounts an atmospheric 2.0 (or without turbo) gasoline that delivers 160 hp . Yes, they are 160 and not 165 HP because the versions of total traction, like the one that occupies to us, present a configuration different from those of front traction in the collector of escape, for reasons of space. This causes the loss of 5 CV and 2 Nm over the values ​​of those. Nothing serious, but curious.

The mechanics, associated with a manual transmission of six relationships, is pleasant, but also true to its excessively aspirated nature. This means that at low speed it costs a world to react and we will not receive a strong response until it exceeds 4,000 rpm . From that point, and up to 6,000 laps, the propeller is in its sauce (\’dies\’ at 6,500 rpm).

Therefore, it is advisable to always carry it \’happy\’ so that the reaction is more energetic; for example, when facing an overtaking.

A marvel has seemed the touch of change . The tiny lever and the precision of a short and quick routes invite you to move it without rest. If we were blindfolded, we would think it was the Mazda MX-5 roadster , not a size SUV. In short, outstanding.

Mazda CX-5 Skyactiv-G 2.0: behavior

In March the Mazda CX-5 Skyactiv-G 2.0 convinces by the great balance that throws between sections such as comfort and dynamics, more than correct. There are no winks towards adaptive suspensions, but the truth is that it perfectly contains the body sways and neutralizes the irregularity of the firm with frank ease. Help generous tires 225/55 R19.

The address is fast and precise: do not envy the one of a tourist . Meanwhile, all-wheel drive makes things easier and ensures greater agility. Under normal conditions, the Mazda CX-5 Skyactiv-G 2.0 acts as a front-wheel drive, but it sends up to 50 percent of the available torque to the rear wheels to stabilize the set against grip cessions.

Can with dirt tracks of low or medium difficulty, but it is an SUV that first of all loves the asphalt . Good note also for the brakes, effective and without losing the forms even in emergency maneuvers.

And as for the average consumption recorded during the test, note that it fixes 7.9 l / 100 km . Devices like the i-stop system (stopping and starting the engine, of the fastest and most refined of the market, by the way) help to contain the thirst for fuel.

Mazda CX-5 Skyactiv-G 2.0: what\’s standard?

Generous and tremendously advanced is the standard equipment in security and connectivity of our unit: adaptive and matrix LED headlights, alert of involuntary lane change with corrective function on the address, browser or a sound system that Bose signs, with ten speakers that They will delight the fine ears, they come from origin. In short, a very complete endowment that can still be more so by resorting to two optional packs available.

Mazda CX-5 Skyactiv-G 2.0: conclusion

Comfortable, spacious, dynamic, well made and very well equipped, the new CX-5 is one of the most attractive options in the segment. The 160 HP engine is somewhat \’vague\’ at low speed, its only but remarkable.

Mazda CX-5 Skyactiv-G 2.0 : valuation

Image: 4
Finishes: 4
Driving position: 4
Habitability: 4
Boot: 4
Engine: 3
Recovery: 3
Performance: 3
Direction: 4
Gearbox: 5
Brakes: 4
Stability: 4
Consumption: 4

* 5 is the maximum, 1 the minimum

Text: Gregorio Arroyo. 
Photos: Paloma Soria

Mazda CX-5 Skyactiv-G 2.0 : technical sheet

Mazda CX-5 Skyactiv-G 2.0 : equipment

SERIES Cruise speed control; access and keyless start; dual-zone climate control; HMI Commander command; travel consumption computer; rain sensors and lights; 19-inch alloy wheels; Adaptive Smart Full LED headlights; dead angle surveillance; rear traffic detector; notice of fatigue of the driver; rear view camera; front and rear parking sensors; autonomous braking system in the city; unwanted lane change alert; intelligent road lights; recognition of traffic signals; 7.0-inch touch screen; Head-up color display; browser; electric tailgate; Bose sound system; digital radio and photochromatic interior mirror.

OPTIONAL Metallic paint (520 euros); leather pack: includes heated front seats, electric and memory for the driver (2,050 euros); pack cruise: includes head-up display on windshield, adaptive cruise control, pre-impact emergency braking, electric roof and leather pack (5,095 euros).