The second-generation Mazda CX-5 is now seven years previous, and even the facelift that was launched earlier this 12 months has been round since September 2021. It’s clear, then, that this household SUV is near the top of its life, so has it been outclassed by its newer rivals?

Effectively, that’s why we took the newest mannequin for a spin – and in top-spec 2.5 Turbo Excessive AWD guise. Its RM188,760 value definitely appears excessive, however now that different C-segment SUVs (such because the new Honda CR-V) have additionally breached the RM190,000 mark, the price of the range-topper has nearly been normalised.

The CX-5’s design could seem awfully acquainted because of the sheer variety of items on the highway lately, however in isolation it nonetheless appears improbable, with exact curving strains and many voluptuous surfacing. The facelift has been pretty profitable in updating the design, because of extra assertive L-shaped head- and taillight graphics, a bigger and bolder grille and a cleaner design for the bumpers.

Inside, the CX-5 retains its premium-feeling, well-built inside, enhanced by new options like a seven-inch digital instrument show, a head-up show and redesigned seats. Nevertheless, even this top-of-the-line mannequin misses out on the bigger 10.25-inch infotainment show, Bose sound system and any type of hands-free opening perform for the tailgate.

Fortunately, the CX-5 is totally fashionable underneath the bonnet, the place you’ll discover a 2.5 litre turbocharged Skyactiv-G four-cylinder engine that produces a punchy 231 PS and 420 Nm of torque. Mated to the standard six-speed automated gearbox and all-wheel drive with variable torque distribution, it’ll get from zero to 100 km/h in 8.8 seconds and delivers a claimed gasoline consumption of 9.1 litres per 100 km on the WLTP cycle.

Loads of redeeming qualities for the CX-5 then, however can it actually sustain with newer competitors? And in a world the place vehicles have gotten increasingly tech-heavy, is the old-school Mazda beginning to make extra sense? Discover out within the video assessment beneath.

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