It’s hard to believe that the Mazda CX-5 is now four years old. In car years, that’s practically a lifetime. We only say this because the compact Sport Utility Vehicle (CUV) still looks as fresh as the day it first appeared on the scene. Credit this to the svelte Kodo-Soul of Motion lines, the initial interpretation on this model that set the tone for Mazdas to come.
Today, Mazda finally revealed the second generation of its erstwhile CUV, the 2017 CX-5. While not exactly a radical departure from its predecessor, the exterior bears a more refined take on the Japanese carmaker’s design language. It’s more upscale in execution, especially with the new signature Soul Red Crystal paint scheme that debuts in this model’s lineup. One notable thing about this shade is that it uses three layers of deep coated paint to bring out the natural luster and shimmer, just like a crystal.
Just like the outside, the cabin is a more premium rendition of the Mazda cabin that customers have come to love over the years. Its functional design is likewise easy on the eyes and the senses, with all controls within easy reach.
The new CX-5 will still be motivated by a pair of Skyactiv-G gasoline engines in 2.0- and 2.5-liter displacements, as well as a Skyactiv-D diesel motor displacing 2.2-liters. While no figures were given as of press time, Mazda promises both fuel efaficient and powerful performance befitting the Skyactiv nomenclature.
Besides the engine, the Skyactiv suite of technologies also includes the chassis. One new addition is G-Vectoring that controls the vehicle to follow the driver’s natural movements. The cool tech feature first entered the scene with the Mazda 3 and Mazda 6.
The 2017 Mazda CX-5 debuts at the 2016 Los Angeles International Auto Show. It will go on sale in Japan in February of next year, with other markets to follow thereafter.
