Second-generation 2017 Mazda CX-5 subtly improved

Launched in 2012, the Mazda CX-5 shot to stardom, quickly becoming a huge seller now accounting for approximately a quarter of the Japanese automaker’s sales. Smart looks, sharp handling and a practical form are just some of the attributes that contributed to the crossover’s success. The second generation 2017, now available, makes further improvements to all these areas and more.

The exterior might look similar to the initial model, but several subtle changes have been made to achieve the term “Refined Toughness” coined by the Mazda development team. Sitting slightly lower and wider with the A-pillars pushed back, the vehicle has a more planted stance than before.

Among the most noticeable of the upgrades are the LED headlights, which are encased in housings much thinner than before and blend seamlessly into a 3-D centre grille. A new body colour has been introduced as well, Soul Red Crystal, a three-layer premium metallic paint designed to accentuate every curve and create the sense of movement utilizing light reflection.

In the cabin, special attention has been paid to making sure the driver is sitting in an ideal position where no extra effort is required to comfortably reach any of the controls. As such, the floor console has been raised resulting in the shift knob being placed higher for easier access. The movement of the A-pillars mentioned earlier combined with smaller side mirrors provide better visibility.

As before, there are two gasoline powertrain options depending on the trim level. Base GX grades receive a SKYACTIV-G 2.0-litre engine producing 155 horsepower, and GX, GS and GT get a bump up to 2.5 litres of displacement and 187 hp. Also optional are a six-speed manual transmission and all-wheel drive.

Increasing the driving enjoyment significantly is the addition of Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control (GVC) technology. Engine torque is automatically adjusted in response to steering wheel movement in order to minimize effects from G forces during cornering. This increases vehicle stability and reduces unwanted occupant movement.

The 2017 Mazda CX-5 is on sale now, and in the latter half of the year, a diesel variant with the 2.2 L SKYACTIV-D motor is expected to arrive.