What to expect from the updated Mazda CX-5

Distinctive styling and engaging driving dynamics have helped CX-5 become one of the best-selling Mazda vehicles globally. In its 2012 debut, the crossover introduced the world to Mazda’s Kodo-Soul of Motion design ethos and Skyactiv Technology that laid a path for future Mazda vehicles. Since then, CX-5 has gone through several improvements year on year.

In Malaysia, Mazda brought the 2019 iteration of CX-5 last year with five trims and four powerplant options. And now, 2020 Mazda CX-5, which recently went on sale in Europe, is due for arrival in the country. Here we have listed the expected specifications of updated CX-5, have a look.

Exterior

The front end of Mazda CX-5 features a distinctive, assertive grille boldly proclaiming the brand’s logo in the front, flanked by LED headlamps. In terms of cosmetic changes, 2020 Mazda CX-5 is likely to be identical to the ongoing model. The few expected changes include new slimmer, classier, and more upright badges and a fresh Polymetal Grey Metallic paint available as optional. The standard equipment list for the exterior consists of 17-inch alloy wheels and LED fog lamps.

Interior

Mazda’s interiors are full of classy touches that help it to win against all the competitors. And that will undoubtedly be true for the 2020 CX-5. The new iteration is expected to get a one-inch larger Mazda Connect infotainment touchscreen, which now allows mapping to extend full-screen on the monitor. The selected trims would also receive faux leather upholstery with suede-like fabric centres, and more substantial key fob for maximum security. Moreover, LED interior lighting is likely to come as standard across the range.

Engine specifications

Under the skin, 2020 Mazda CX-5 will be expected to have mild improvements. However, the most significant update is the introduction of cylinder deactivation technology for the naturally aspirated 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G petrol unit. It shuts down two of the engine’s four cylinders under light load, which contributes an 8g/km reduction in emissions, while its power and torque figures remain the same. 

The current mechanical numbers of the different available engine options are - 2.0-litre petrol unit producing 162 bhp of maximum power and 210 Nm of torque, 2.5-litre petrol mill generates 192 bhp and 258 Nm, 2.5-litre turbo petrol engine delivers 228 bhp and 420 Nm and 2.2-litre turbo diesel pumps out 188 bhp and an impressive 420 Nm of torque. 

Another notable change expected for the 2020 Mazda CX-5 is reduced noise levels for all trims. For this, Mazda engineers worked tirelessly to enhance the engines’ performance and made them more precise to keep noise levels at a minimum and reduced overall vibration throughout the vehicle. The new materials used in six-layer headlining minimize the reflection of road-noise, whereas a dynamic damper on the steering of petrol guises reduces vibrations, that transmit through the rim. 

Safety

For safety, 2020 Mazda CX-5 will be equipped with the latest i-Activsense suite of driver assistance systems, including autonomous emergency braking system, Advanced Smart City Brake Support (SCBS), nighttime pedestrian detection, lane departure warning with steering assists, and adaptive cruise control. Furthermore, the automatic headlights will now activate 30 minutes before sunset for better visibility on the road.

Pricing and arrival

The updated Mazda CX-5 range is already available in Europe, with prices starting from £27,030 (RM 142,079). While the automaker has yet to make any official statement on the arrival of 2020 Mazda CX-5 in Malaysia, but we expect it to be coming soon.

Also read: 2020 Mazda BT-50 revealed - When will it come to Malaysia?