Interestingly, Mazda Southern Africa believes this new front-wheel drive, self-shifting model – which slots neatly into the centre of the line-up – will prove its best-seller, predicting that it will account for nearly a third of CX-5 sales. South Africa’s second-generation CX-5 line-up has been expanded from six to seven variants, thanks to the introduction of a new automatic-equipped version of the 2,0 Dynamic derivative (a trim level previously available exclusively in conjunction with a slick six-speed manual gearbox). Sure, it’s firmer than some of its rivals, but nowhere near the point of crashiness. Despite all but the three base-spec Active derivatives running on new 19-inch alloys, the CX-5’s ride is seldom troubled, and its Macpherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension setup deals with all but the harshest of road imperfections with aplomb.

Thankfully, this unusual level of engagement (for a compact crossover, anyway) doesn’t come at the expense of comfort.

In short, the CX-5 appears to have built even further on the sort of dynamic talent that has helped render it the driver’s choice in this segment. Well, a few minutes driving the outgoing and latest models back-to-back on a dynamic handling course highlighted the subtle effect that this system can have, while also illustrating just how much sharper (yet lighter) the steering has become. Already introduced locally in the Mazda3 and CX-3, this system varies engine torque according to steering inputs, essentially shifting weight to all the right places and reducing body roll. Further up the range, a powered tailgate and a pair of rear-sited USB ports have also been introduced.Īlthough the underpinnings haven’t come in for any serious fettling, Mazda has seen fit to equip the latest-generation CX-5 with its nifty G-Vectoring Control software. The luggage compartment, too, is ostensibly a little more capacious than before, while rear passengers gain a handy reclining function and dedicated air-conditioning vents. The Hiroshima-based automaker has also made an effort to up refinement levels, chiefly by adding extra insulation in every nook and cranny, but also by working (very effectively, we might add) to eliminate wind noise.

Mazda cx 5 2016 review