New Mazda CX-5 arrives in South Africa: Here's what you get for your money

The eagerly anticipated third-generation Mazda CX-5 has arrived in South Africa, boasting a refreshed appearance, increased dimensions and updated cabin technology. However, the pricing remains comparable to its predecessor, with the new four-model lineup starting at R578,250 and reaching up to R749,100. The prior iteration was priced between R570,500 and R688,400.

The newcomer competes with other compact SUVs such as the Hyundai Tucson, Jetour T2, Ford Territory, Nissan X-Trail, Volkswagen Tiguan, Subaru Forester, and Toyota RAV4, all of which have slightly lower starting prices.

Though the CX-5's design is a subtle refinement of its predecessor, it marks a more substantial increase in size. The overall length has extended by 115mm to 4,690mm, and the width has expanded by 15mm. This additional length has been allocated to the wheelbase, resulting in enhanced interior space. Mazda promises greater legroom, knee clearance, and headroom, while the boot capacity has expanded from 438 to 466 litres.

The top-of-the-line models come equipped with a new panoramic sunroof and Mazda's largest touchscreen display to date, measuring 15.5 inches. Most models in the previous range were equipped with a 2.0-litre engine, but the new lineup now features a more powerful 2.5-litre naturally aspirated engine. This upgraded engine delivers 132kW and 240Nm, an increase of 11kW and 27Nm compared to the previous generation.

The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, powering either the front or all four wheels, depending on the specific variant.

The CX-5's base 2.5L Active variant comes standard with 17-inch Grey Metallic alloy wheels, a 12.9-inch touchscreen featuring Google integration, seven airbags, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Blind Spot Monitoring. The 2.5L Dynamic variant upgrades these features to include 19-inch Black Machined alloy wheels, synthetic leather seats with electric adjustment, a head-up display, and a powered tailgate.

The 2.5L Individual model further elevates the experience with a 12-speaker Bose sound system, ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, heated rear seats, a 360-degree View Monitor, and Front Cross Traffic Alert. The Homura, Mazda's premium offering, sets itself apart with Adaptive LED headlights, genuine leather seat trim in Black or Sports Tan, a hands-free liftgate, and a larger 15.5-inch touchscreen display, all accompanied by all-wheel drive capability.

Lastly, high-mileage drivers can benefit from a five-year, unlimited-kilometre service plan and warranty, which is likely standard across the entire range.