Mazda updates appealing CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 has become a very popular offering as it blends Mazda’s reliable build quality with modern styling and the latest tech, for a fraction of the price compared to its German rivals. Mazda has however just updated the CX-5. Here is what you need to know.
A major update includes an evolution of Mazda’s award-winning KODO design, with revised front and rear bumper designs combined with new headlight and tailgate clusters, giving the Mazda CX-5 a distinctly more modern and sharper look.
Other changes include improvements to the design, dynamics performance, utility and convenience elements of the CX-5 and produce a greater sense of quality, both in appearance and the driving experience.
Mazda designers focused on refining the front and rear ends, opting to minimise character lines in favour of reflective body surfaces that create a distinguished and elegant appearance. The front adopts a new bumper and new signature wing that extends outward from the front grille, which is also updated with a three-dimensional texture.
The rear features a new bumper and tailgate. The headlights and taillights receive significant design changes with each lamp featuring a pair of horizontally spaced, rectangular LED lights that create a sleek, eye-catching expression. Luggage space for the range comes in at 442 litres in five-seater mode, and extends to 1,914 litres when the second row of seats are folded down.
Driving dynamics, ride comfort and quality have also been improved. Updates include improvements to the damping control structure and increased frame rigidity, helping to suppress vibrations and road noise. With a quieter cabin and improved ride comfort, drivers will feel more connected to the enjoyable driving experience.
Under the bonnet of our test unit is the tried and tested 2.5-litre naturally aspirated motor. It develops 143kW and a healthy 258Nm of torque. It’s got a fair bit of mid-range punch, despite the lack of forced induction, and combined with the efficacy of the automatic transmission it makes short work of overtaking and acceleration from a standstill. Yet, for all its sporting qualities, it’s impressively frugal – consuming 8.4l/100km on a combined cycle.
Out on the road the CX-5 drives rather well. The electronically adjustable seats are comfortable and supportive but most impressive of all is that they drop low giving the CX-5 a car-like driving position. The gearbox in particular is highly impressive. It’s a 6-speed torque converter automatic, not usually something sporting but it’s tuned for response and holding of gears. The shifts themselves are a tad sluggish, but even slight throttle inputs result in quick downshifts.
We do admire the CX-5 however, the 2.5-litre does seem a bit dated with the raft of turbocharged motors entering the market. Our preferred pick however would be the 2.2 turbo diesel.
Also worth a look: the Mazda Gives the CX-3 a Tech and Style Boost for 2026 and the Mazda Cx 60.
FAQ
Q: What does the updated Mazda CX-5 cost in South Africa?
The updated Mazda CX-5 range starts from around R489,900 for the base 2.0 Active model and goes up to approximately R629,900 for the top-spec 2.5 Individual AWD, making it a solid value proposition against pricier German rivals.
Q: Is the Mazda CX-5 worth buying over competitors like the Toyota RAV4?
The CX-5 offers better styling, superior driving dynamics and a more premium interior feel than the RAV4, though Toyota edges it slightly on resale value and service network coverage across SA.
Q: How fuel efficient is the Mazda CX-5 2.5-litre engine?
The 2.5-litre naturally aspirated engine achieves a claimed 7.8 litres per 100km on the combined cycle, which translates to decent real-world consumption of around 8.5-9.5 litres per 100km depending on driving conditions.
Q: What warranty does Mazda offer on the CX-5 in South Africa?
Mazda provides a comprehensive 3-year/unlimited kilometre warranty plus a 5-year/unlimited kilometre engine warranty, backed by their established dealer network across the country.
Should You Buy It?
The best premium SUV under R630,000 in SA is absolutely the updated Mazda CX-5, especially in the sweet-spot 2.5 Dynamic AWD spec at around R579,900. You get genuinely engaging driving dynamics that'll put a smile on your face, a cabin that feels more expensive than it is, and Mazda's rock-solid reliability reputation. Sure, the infotainment system isn't as slick as the Germans and rear seat space could be more generous, but for the money you're getting a proper driver's SUV that won't bankrupt you at service time. If you want something that's both practical for the school run and fun for weekend getaways, this updated CX-5 ticks all the right boxes without the premium badge tax.
