Touch just and necessary. This appears to have been the goal of Mazda's modifications to the 2023 facelift of its best-selling CX-5. The best-selling model in Spain incorporates some novelties to "round off" and perfect a vehicle that already stood out for its balanced and successful commitment.
Solvent, reliable, sober, efficient and consistent, the Mazda CX-5 is one of those mid-size SUVs (4.57 m) that meets all the requirements of a multipurpose family vehicle. Now, with the improvements applied, it is even more complete, especially in the sustainability and connectivity sections.
The main contribution of the 2023 version is the light hybridization of 24 V that its two gasoline engines (now called e-SKYACTIV-G) of 2.0 and 2.5 liters debut, and that keep the power figures unchanged: 165 and 194 CV. However, thanks to the additional electrical assistance provided by this technology, they improve their efficiency records and reduce their CO2 emissions by 14 g/km and consumption by 0.6 l/100 km.
This may not seem like much, but throughout the vehicle's useful life the savings are very significant, both for the user and for the environment. In addition, by implementing this mechanical technology, the DGT ECO label is achieved, with numerous advantages compared to the C distinctive that the model previously bore. It should be remembered that while in the Spanish car park the proportion of vehicles with an ECO or ZERO label represents only 5% of the total, in the Mazda range it reaches 95% of the offer of engines available in 2023, which reflects the path traveled in terms of sustainability by the Hiroshima brand.
This option of combining an naturally aspirated gasoline engine (without a turbo, then) with a 24V Mild Hybrid system is rare and results in an excellent feeling of smoothness and finesse when driving, with softened reactions, a contained sound and a smooth and calm mechanical behaviour. But, on the contrary, the sensation of power does not seem to correspond to the announced figures, its delivery is very linear and somewhat slow and requires raising the engine revs to find the thrust and determination required, for example, overtaking or a incorporation. It is a driving style with certain peculiarities that requires getting used to a more leisurely pace.
On the other hand, the 2.5-liter block slightly increases its torque while the versions with an automatic gearbox additionally have a cylinder disconnection system when driving with low mechanical load. The 150 and 184 hp diesel blocks remain unchanged.
The 2023 CX-5 now features wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a new center touchscreen and USB-C outlets as well as a wireless charger tray for mobile phones. Inside, the profile of the seats has also been redesigned to make them more comfortable on long journeys. The perception of quality, the adjustment of the components and the materials used are impeccable, placing the brand's products in clearly premium territory.
Outwardly, the changes are subtle but easy to appreciate if the 2022 and 2023 versions are directly compared. In addition to the model identification logos, the bumpers, grille, headlights, and lights change, among other things. There is also a new color for the body called "Zircon Sand" and new designs for the wheels, which are now always 19 inches (while before the access version mounted 17").
The new CX-5 2023, now available in Spain from 33,607 euros (with discounts and promotions applied) can be configured with up to 7 different trim levels or finishes, called Center-Line Plus, Advantage, Newground, Exclusive-Line, Homura, Homura Plus and Takumi.
