Mazda has refreshed the European version of its CX-5 SUV for the next model year – but the scope of changes can readily be described as modest.
Aside from the new Polymetal Grey Metallic paint and restyled badges, the cabin now uses LED-based ambient lighting, and the seats can be trimmed with imitation leather and Alcantara. The central display now measures 8 inches across instead of 7, and the key fob is also new.
The model comes powered by an improved version of its standard Skyactiv-G I4 2.0 rated at 165 hp (123 kW) and 213 Nm (157 lb-ft) of torque, which links to a manual transmission. The one major improvement is the ability to deactivate half of the cylinders to minimize fuel consumption. All automatic versions now ship with paddle shifters in base spec.
The six-layered ceiling insulation gains an additional film layer that contributes another 10% to the low-frequency noise damping. A rubber vibration damper has been added to the steering columns of all gasoline specs to muffle vibrations between 25 and 100 Hz.
The AWD CX-5 lineup now boasts an inter-axle torque distribution system, and the AEB feature recognizes pedestrians even in the dark when going below 80 km/h (50 mph).