Is it possible for a model line to have no base variant? That’s certainly how it feels after this 2024 Mazda CX-5 update.
Mazda Philippines recently introduced a refreshed CX-5 line that brings visual and comfort improvements to the compact SUV. The new Kodo design language first seen in the top-spec turbocharged CX-5 has now trickled down to the other two variants—the 2.0L Sport and the 2.5L AWD Sport. This means a new three-dimensional grille and a more elegant wind design. Along with simplified bumper elements, it’s reminiscent of the current Mazda 3 and the refreshed CX-30.
But the improvements are not just skin deep. There may be new quad LED daytime running lights and LED signature taillamps, but there’s also a new adaptive front lighting system with auto leveling and high beam control. There are new alloy wheel designs, although the sizes (17 inchers for the 2.0 and 19s for the higher specs) are status quo.
Reminding everyone that no one does color like Mazda, buyers are given lovely hues to choose from: Soul Red Crystal, Machine Gray, Polymetal Gray, Deep Crystal Blue, and Jet Black are available across all variants, while Snowflake White Pearl and the new Platinum Quartz are available on the 2.0L Sport and 2.5L AWD Sport. Two shades—Rhodium White Premium and Zircon Sand—are exclusive to the 2.5L AWD Turbo.
Additional welcome improvements occur in the cabin. There is a new seat design that follows the human spine’s S-shaped curve, resulting in less head movement and less fatigue, and more comfort for the passengers as well.
The body frame is reinforced using damping adhesives to lessen the intrusion of vibrations and sound. To further mitigate those dreaded bumpy roads, the suspension has retuned spring and damper characteristics.
And here are details we’re quite fond of: The seats are finished in black leather with orange stitching on the 2.0L Sport and 2.5L AWD Sport. The 2.5L AWD Turbo elevates this experience further with its deep red nappa leather seats. All variants feature 10-way power adjustment for the driver and six-way power adjust for the front passenger seat, with the 2.5L AWD Turbo getting standard front seat ventilation.
Naturally, there’s wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless charging for smartphones that support this. The 10-speaker Bose audio system is now standard across the range, while the 2.5L AWD Sport and 2.5L AWD Turbo get a sunroof.
In terms of powertrains, the CX-5 is quite unique in the sense that it has three different engines for the three variants: a 2.0-liter mill with 153hp and 200Nm, a 2.5-liter engine with 187hp and 252Nm, and a turbopetrol with 250hp and 434Nm.
As expected there is no shortage of safety features. The range has standard Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, while the 2.5L AWD Turbo uses its millimeter wave radar and camera to offer advanced i-Activsense driver assist features: Mazda Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning with Lane-Keep Assist, Smart Brake Support, front and rear Smart City Brake Support, and Driver Attention Alert.
“As the best-selling model in Mazda Philippines’ lineup, the CX-5 remains a centerpiece of Mazda engineering,” shares Steven Tan, president and CEO of Mazda Philippines. “Following the success of the CX-5 Turbo—itself a compact SUV that offers unmatched dynamics and capability— the arrival of the sharpened CX-5 range for 2024 offers a blend of functionality and versatility in a form that has a heightened sense of individuality.”
There are slight price increases across the range, but you do get more features so we think it balances out. The CX-5 range starts at P 1,950,000 (from P1,890,000) for the 2.0L Sport, P2,050,000 (from P1,990,000) for the CX-5 2.5L AWD Sport, while the CX-5 2.5L AWD Turbo stays at P 2,430,000.
The CX-5 is aging like fine wine, and Mazda has successfully updated it to stand against the competition.
