Mazda hones redesigned, more refined CX-5 crossover
There are dozens of redesigned or added seals, insulation and other sound deadening fixes.
Through the magic of microprocessors, steering is monitored and when negotiating curves, the technology dials back minute amounts of engine torque.
For 2017, the only gasoline engine is Mazda's Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter four cylinder but it now makes three more horsepower – 187 – and at 6,000 rpm instead of 5,700 rpm, thanks to reduced-friction pistons that are also more resistant to engine knock.
[...] the system operates from 19 mph to a dead stop, and in follow/stop mode, maintain a set distance and brings the vehicle to full stop if traffic ahead halts.
The interior has more inviting surfaces with French seam stitching on seats, upper door panels, armrests dashboard and center console.
Standard equipment includes 17-inch alloy wheels, cloth upholstery, cruise control, air conditioning, pushbutton starter, LED headlights, power windows and door locks, a backup camera and a 7-inch color touchscreen for the AM/FM/HD infotainment system with two charging USB ports.
A notch up is the CX-5 Touring ($25,915) which adds six-way power driver's seat, leatherette seats with suede inserts, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, heated front seats, rear privacy glass, reclining rear seats, auto-leveling headlights, six-speaker audio, advanced keyless entry, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, illuminated vanity mirrors, rear center armrest with two additional USB ports and dual zone climate control.
The CX-5 Grand Touring ($29,395) includes the i-Activsense leather seats, 19-inch wheels, power liftgate (also available as part of an extra cost package on the Touring) eight-way driver's seat with power lumbar support, moonroof, adaptive front lighting, SiriusXM, rain-sensing wipers and heated exterior mirrors, and LED fog lights, daytime running lights and taillights.
Mazda's polished compact crossover remains a value proposition that's rewarding to drive and impressively civil.