2027 Mazda CX-5 review
It’s unfortunate for Mazda, then, that a carry-over four-cylinder petrol engine and six-speed automatic is the only powertrain.
While there’s no hybrid or plug-in hybrid available at launch, Mazda has confirmed a hybrid will arrive in early 2028.
Meanwhile, a similar-sized fully electric alternative is much nearer in the form of the China-sourced CX-6e.
For now, Mazda’s lively 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol is the only engine available, delivering unchanged outputs of 132kW/242Nm and driving all four wheels via a six-speed transmission.
Pricing and model range
Recommended retail pricing for the five-variant range starts with the CX-5 Pure ($39,990), followed by the Evolve ($42,990), Touring ($47,490), GT SP ($51,990) and the range-topping Akera ($54,990).
Model-to-model direct price comparisons with the previous-generation CX-5 are difficult due to the old range including 2WD variants and both an entry-level 2.0-litre four-cylinder and a higher-grade 2.5-litre turbocharged engine, none of which are available in the new range.
Of the models that do line up more directly, the 2.5 Touring is $1,890 more expensive, the 2.5 GT SP $1,030 more expensive, and the Akera $1,840 more expensive.
More space and better technology
Mazda points to the new model’s numerous improvements over its predecessor, including new styling inside and out, expanded dimensions that deliver valuable extra boot space and more rear-seat legroom, as well as a completely redesigned dash featuring new touchscreen technology.
While even the base Pure is reasonably well appointed with features including:
- 17-inch alloy wheels
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12.9-inch central infotainment touchscreen
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10.25-inch TFT LCD driver display
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Dual-zone climate control
- LED headlamps.
For an extra $3,000 the Evolve adds:
- Frameless rear-view mirror with auto-dimming
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Auto-folding and heated exterior mirrors
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Heated front seats
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Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto
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Wireless smartphone charger
- Smart keyless entry and rear air vents.
That comes standard on the $5,000 more expensive CX-5 Touring, along with:
- Handsome 19-inch machined alloy wheels
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Synthetic leather and suede trim
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10-way powered driver’s seat with memory
- Heated steering wheel, roof rails and more.
Familiar engine, polished performance
Regardless of which CX-5 variant you choose, they’re powered by Mazda’s fizzy 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine which delivers impressively spritely performance around town and out on the highway.
Mazda has always aspired to build vehicles with above-average driving dynamics and that’s certainly true of this new CX-5, which delivers a pleasing balance of responsiveness, ride comfort, handling and safety.
The combination of an eager engine and gearbox, well-balanced handling, and quality steering equates to an SUV that negotiates bends with predictable confidence while delivering compliant ride quality.
The specifications speak to a wheelbase that’s been extended by 115mm and a rear tread that’s now 30mm wider, which along with comprehensive fine-tuning of the tyres, springs, dampers, bump stops, and anti-roll bars contributes to the well-rounded dynamic performance.
Interior and safety upgrades
Inside, the newly designed interior is clean and well laid out and the larger infotainment system is more in keeping with current design trends, although some buyers will rue the reduction in physical controls and the move to more touchscreen-based systems.
Mazda Connected Services is now standard across the range, integrating with the MyMazda app to allow remote access to features including:
- Vehicle Status
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Stolen Vehicle Assistance
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Remote Lock
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Vehicle Locator services
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Geofencing capability
- Emergency SOS services integration.
- Smart City Brake Support for both forward and rear directions
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Lane-Keep Assist System
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Lane Departure warning (LDW)
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Blind-Spot Monitoring (BSM)
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Radar Cruise Control with Stop and Go function.
Verdict: One of the best medium SUVs on sale
The Mazda CX-5 is an above-average drive, with a polished powertrain and chassis that ranks it as one of the best medium SUVs on the market.
Add to that the overall quality of the vehicle, its fresh design and expanded interior dimensions including gains in boot space and rear-seat accommodation, and this capable Mazda SUV is now an even better proposition for families and other users.
Mazda CX-5 specifications
- PRICE: $47,490 (MRLP)
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WARRANTY: Five years, unlimited kilometres
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POWERTRAIN: 2.5-litre in-line four-cylinder petrol, 16-valve, DOHC (132kW/242Nm), six-speed automatic, all-wheel drive.
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ANCAP CRASH RATING: Five stars (2026)
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FUEL CONSUMPTION: 7.4L/100km/100km (172g/km CO2)
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FOR: Attractive styling, impressive build quality, improved tech, more cargo space, expanded second-row legroom, responsive drivetrain, good refinement comfortable ride, well-balanced handling.
- AGAINST: Price increases across range; five-seat only; carryover powertrain with no hybrid or electrified option; fussy touchscreen; higher fuel consumption than key electrified rivals.
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