Say hello to…
…the Mazda CX-5, the latest generation of Mazda’s mid-size SUV that’s launching with a 2.5-litre petrol engine that has some hybridisation, but no plug-in capability (yet). While this approach may limit its fleet appeal and tax friendliness, Mazda believes that by fitting a large petrol engine that doesn’t need to be worked as hard as a smaller unit, real-world fuel efficiency will be better.
There are four trim levels, all specifications are front drive, but the higher two can be optioned with all-wheel drive:
- Prime-line
- Centre-line
- Exclusive-line
- Homura
Standard equipment on the Prime-line trim includes 17-inch alloys, front and rear parking sensors, reversing camera, 10.25-inch digital driver’s display, clever cruise control, dual-zone climate control, drive modes, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 2x USB sockets and a 12.9-inch infotainment screen.
Centre-line adds 19-inch alloys, power-fold door mirrors, powered boot lid, heated steering wheel, powered driver seat with memory and heating, wireless charging and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Exclusive-line adds 360-degree monitor, panoramic roof, powered and heated passenger seat rear USB connections
Homura adds LED headlights, leather upholstery, 15.6-inch infotainment screen.
Is The Mazda CX-5 Suitable For My Fleet
The 2.5-litre petrol engine reduces the CX-5’s fleet appeal. However, if you’re taking a cash option, the car is great to drive and impressively roomy an practical.
Leasing A Mazda CX-5
Gateway2lease is offering the Mazda CX-5 in front-drive Homura spec for £411 a month on a 3+36 contract with 10,000 miles a year. This compared favourably with rivals such as the Kia Sportage. Gensen Reports forecasts maintenance at £35 a month and Class 1A NIC comes in at £141 a month.
Driving A Mazda CX-5
Like previous generations, the new CX-5 continues to impress from behind the wheel. Mazda has resisted the temptation to numb everything in the pursuit of comfort, so the steering remains precise and nicely weighted, while the brakes feel reassuringly strong and progressive. As a result, it feels more polished and engaging to drive than many of its mid-size SUV rivals.
However, the switch to an automatic-only line-up may limit its appeal to those that favour driving experience over other factors. The engine is smooth enough at lower speeds, but it becomes quite rough and noisy when pushed beyond gentle acceleration, which takes some of the shine off an otherwise refined driving experience.
Inside, the cabin is solid and well finished, although it no longer stands out in a class packed with high-quality rivals. Space is a strong point, with generous rear-seat room and a good-sized boot making the CX-5 a practical family and business choice alike.
Mazda has retained some welcome physical buttons for key functions, but there is still too much reliance on the infotainment system for everyday adjustments. Unfortunately, the system itself isn’t especially intuitive, meaning simple tasks can require more attention than they should. Although one plus-side is a physical button to turn off some of the annoying ADAS systems.
FleetandLeasing.com Verdict On The Mazda CX-5
A refreshingly driver-focussed car, but we suspect fleet users will be best off waiting for the plug-in hybrid version.
Mazda CX-5
Model: CX-5 Homura 2.5 front-drive
Power: 141hp
Torque: 238Nm
Max speed: 116mph
0-62mph: 10.5seconds
Official mpg: 40.4mpg
Test mpg: 36.2mpg
CO2 emissions: 157g/km
BIK tax band 2024/25: 37%
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