It’s hard to believe but the current second-generation Mazda CX-5 has been around for roughly eight years now. While it’s managed to outlast some relationships, it was birthed in a completely different world back then—electrification wasn’t a buzz word and no one took Chinese car brands seriously. Fast forward to today and you’ve got everyone and their uncle talking about hybrids (or EVs) and the Chinese have carved a solid five percent share of sales. It’s this sort of world the 2024 CX-5 finds itself in and one where, in some regard, it’s playing catch up.
I’m no stranger to the CX-5 since I personally own a 2018 Diesel AWD; I also happen to have a 2024 AWD Turbo as a long-term lend out. I’ve also happen to test almost every single iteration through the years including the mid-trim FWD Sport and the previous iteration of the vehicle I’m currently reviewing here, the AWD Sport (non-turbo). As such, I consider myself an expert on evaluating and owning a CX-5. All this knowledge puts me in a difficult position to say that I’m quite disappointed with the 2024 AWD Sport.
Let me start out with the price. Pre-refresh, the CX-5 AWD Sport sets you back P 1.990-million. It’s a nice sweet spot because not only is it tremendously good value with the features you get, but it’s priced within the typical upper management car plan—the CX-5’s core market—with no need to “top up.” Now, that price has gone up to P 2.050-million—a P 60,000 increase. Considering inflation and all, it’s a drop in a bucket. However, people who’ll consider this will cross shop and will be looking at the chief competitors too. The all-new CR-V is priced at P 2.1-million (without the hefty discounts they’ve been throwing around), the now-electrified Tucson Hybrid is at P 2.290-million, and the price-reduced RAV4 HEV is at P 2.046-million—that’s all heavyweight competition right there. By breaking the P 2-million mark, it opens the CX-5 to added scrutiny and it’s one where it fails.
My biggest gripe? The lack of safety features. It’s 2024 and you’d come to expect that offerings in this price range, more so from a brand with premium aspirations, to have a solid list of advanced driver assist features; that’s not the case with the CX-5 AWD Sport. It’s still stuck in 2019 with its thin list—blind spot indicators with rear cross traffic alert, front and rear parking sensors, and a low-res 360-degree camera. The competition I’ve mentioned? They’ve got all the whole shebang. Heck, even the dull-as-cardboard Forester, at P 2.168-million (through legit agents), comes with ADAS too. In 2024, the CX-5 AWD Sport’s safety equipment falls short. It’s just as robust as the Raize’s, and mind you, you can get two of them for Mazda’s asking price.
So, where did the additional P 60,000 go? Surely, it’s not the interior since it’s not as up-to-date as Mazda would have led you to believe. The front seats get a new construction, CarPlay’s now wireless (with a wireless charger), and the cargo cover’s now reversable (carpeted or waterproof), but basically, it hasn’t changed much since the 2020 update when the CX-5 got a 7-inch digital screen in the instrument cluster and a new set of minimalist-looking knurled knobs. When you start combing through the details, you’ll also realize that this Made in Malaysia AWD Sport is stuck in a product update limbo compared to the up-to-date Made in Japan AWD Turbo. It’s betrayed by its steering wheel stitching (traditional versus Chidori), vanity mirror lighting (bulb versus LED), and ambient lighting (none versus on the foot well and center console). This isn’t even counting the glaring advantages of the Turbo too like the vented Nappa leather seats.
How about the exterior? Well, the CX-5 AWD Sport has managed to catch up here at least. It’s now managed to have the latest Mazda design language, something the local market AWD Turbo had way back in 2022. And frankly, it looks better here. The AWD Turbo’s body-colored bumpers, fenders, and skirts added visual bloat to the design so it’s great that the AWD Sport paired all that back with the black-colored treatment. Even the diamond-cut wheels look classier here too.
In terms of performance, the CX-5 AWD Sport is solid, but largely unremarkable. The 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G has been largely carried over minus any sort of electrification or cylinder deactivation. It serves up the same outputs it did way back in 2017—190 horsepower and 252 Nm of torque. It has a solid enough performance, but prefers to remain in the background compared to the well-tuned 6-speed automatic and the superb chassis which are the overachievers. If anything, the generous displacement (as opposed to turbocharging) has resulted in a more linear, more progressive power delivery. Keep your right foot in check, let the automatic do the work (there are paddle shifters now for the AWD Sport if you insist), and it behaves like the Skyactiv-Turbo minus the upper end grunt surge. Weirdly, fuel efficiency is the same as its forced induction counterpart at 7.2 km/L.
For all my gripes and issues with the CX-5 AWD Sport, it almost makes up for them with its impeccable on-road behavior. Compared to any other offering in its class, it balances the ride-handling equation perfectly. Thanks to a reinforced body frame and modified suspension tune, it glides over cracks and bumps well. Even larger ones are quelled or, at least, minimized before they intrude into the cabin. Yet, drive it in a more spirited manner and it obliges. SUVs aren’t expected to have communicative steering, but the CX-5 has that pinned down. Throw it into a corner, and its body motion is well-controlled and easily correctable if things get hairy. Even its tech, like G-Vectoring Control, is all about increasing driving engagement as it mimics the act of lifting off the throttle into corners to put weight over the front axle.
Anyone who loves driving, loves Mazda. It’s very clear that they put enthusiasts in their mind at every stage of the design and engineering process. This time around, they may have taken things a bit too literally. Though the CX-5 still is the best handling, best riding compact SUV out there, its class-leading dynamics can only get it so far. The design (inside and out) and build quality are still at the top of their game, but the spec and features aren’t as well-planned or future-proofed as they once were. For a brand that puts heavy emphasis on “premium,” the CX-5 AWD Sport falls short of expectations. Mazda has itself to blame for that and that’s all good if they have the product that can deliver. This one doesn’t. Want to get a CX-5? Take my advice: go all out and splurge on the AWD Turbo.
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2024 Mazda CX-5 AWD Sport |
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| Bottom Line | |
| Pros | Still the best handling, best riding compact SUV out there, no one comes close. |
| Cons | Lack of safety features, more expensive but with not much added features. |
| TL;DR | A great driver's SUV, but trust us and get the AWD Turbo instead. |
| Ownership | |
| Year Introduced | 2017 (Refreshed: 2020, 2022, 2024) |
| Warranty | 3 years / 100,000 kilometers |
| The Basics | |
| Body Type | Compact SUV |
| Seating | 5 |
| Engine / Drive | F/AWD |
| Under the Hood | |
| Displacement (liters) | 2.5 |
| Aspiration | Normally Aspirated |
| Fuel Delivery | Direct Injection |
| Layout / # of Cylinders | I4 |
| Maximum Output (PS @ rpm) | 190 @ 6,000 |
| Maximum Torque (Nm @ rpm) | 252 @ 4,000 |
| Fuel / Min. Octane | Gasoline / ~91 |
| Transmission | 6 AT |
| Cruise Control | Yes |
| Fuel Economy (km/L) @ Ave. Speed (km/h) | 7.2 km/L @ 14 km/h |
| Fuel Tank Size (L) | 58 |
| Dimensions and Weights | |
| Length (mm) | 4,575 |
| Width (mm) | 1,845 |
| Height (mm) | 1,680 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2,700 |
| Curb Weight (kg) | 1,644 |
| Suspension and Tires | |
| Front Suspension | Independent, MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Suspension | Independent, Multi-link |
| Front Brakes | Vented Disc |
| Rear Brakes | Disc |
| Parking Brake | Electronic, w/ Auto Hold |
| Tires |
Toyo Proxes R46A 225/55 R 19 V (f & r) |
| Recommended Tire Pressure (PSI) |
36 all, partial, 38 front, 42 rear, full |
| Wheels | Alloy |
| Safety Features | |
| Airbags | 6 |
| Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS) | Yes, with EBD |
| Traction / Stability Control | Yes |
| Parking Sensors | Yes, Front & Rear |
| Parking Camera | Yes, 360-degree |
| Front Seatbelts | 3-pt ELR w/ pre-tensioners x 2 |
| Rear Seatbelts | 3-pt ELR x 3 |
| ISOFIX Child Seat Anchor | Yes |
| Advanced Driver Assist System | None |
| Other Safety Features |
Hill Start Assist Blind Spot Monitoring Rear Cross Traffic Alert |
| Exterior Features | |
| Headlights | LED, Active |
| Fog Lamps | None |
| Light Operation | Automatic |
| Wiper Operation | Rain-sensing |
| Tailgate | Power |
| Interior Features | |
| Steering Wheel Adjust | Tilt/Telescopic, Manual |
| Steering Wheel Material | Leather |
| Seating Adjustment (driver) | 10-way, Electronic, w/ Memory |
| Seating Adjustment (front passenger) | 6-way, Electronic |
| Seating Surface | Leather |
| 2nd Row | 40/20/40 |
| 3rd Row | None |
| Sunroof | Yes |
| Multi-Information Display / Size | Yes, 7-inch |
| Convenience Features | |
| Power Steering | Yes |
| Power Door Locks | Yes |
| Power Windows | Yes |
| Power Mirrors | Yes, w/ Fold |
| Rear View Mirror | Auto-dimming |
| Proximity Key | Yes |
| Climate Control | Dual, w/ Rear Vents |
| Audio System |
Stereo USB Bluetooth |
| Wireless Charger | Yes |
| Infotainment Display / Size | 8-inch |
| Smartphone Connectivity |
Apple CarPlay (Wireless) Android Auto |
| # of Speakers | 10, Bose |
| Steering Controls | Yes |
Thanks for the timely review!
ReplyDeleteI am about to replace my 10 year old car later this year and is inclined to get this exact trim, since I want an AWD this time around.
RAV4 LTD remains an option but with 2WD only and at 2.356M, not a compelling buy for me.
Realised now that the AWD turbo will be a better buy (as you mentioned), especially since I just saw a dealer offerring a 180k discount. That will make it only 200k php more expensive than the non turbo. With the nappa leather and added power, I think it is worth splurge.
The turbo is way worth it over the non-turbo AWD Sport in my opinion. Turbo has added power, nappa leather with ventilation, complete ADAS, and made in Japan. Worth the P 200K additional.
DeleteHey Sir Uly, what about the NON AWD CX5 the 2.0? What's ur take on it? Planning of getting Over the Crosstrek SUbaru. HOPE U can enlighten me. Thanks
Deletehttps://www.carguide.ph/2020/02/review-2020-mazda-cx-5-2wd-sport.html
DeleteI'd always say: if you're not getting the CX-5 Turbo, the 2.0 FWD is actually the better choice compared to the CX-5 AWD non-turbo.
Crosstrek pros vs CX-5 FWD Sport:
- Subaru EyeSight as standard (ADAS, adaptive cruise control, etc.)
- Made in Japan (if that's important to you).
Crosstrek cons vs CX-5 FWD SPort
- Less interior space.
- Cheap feeling plastics (even compared to previous XV).
- Slow AF.
- Horrid fuel economy.
- 2 years free PMS vs 5 years free PMS.
Isn't this like... the same car for the past 10 years?
ReplyDeleteNot exactly. The basic body is pushing eight, while the powertrain is carried over from the first-gen CX-5 so it's pushing around 12.
DeleteMazda has done extensive changes under the skin though...the suspension's been completely revamped. Cosmetically, you get new headlights, taillights, bumpers, etc.
Hi Uly - did Mazda officially sya that this "new" CX-5 has more body frame reinforcement and improved suspension? or did you "feel" it maybe because the test unit is still new?
DeleteThe body frame reinforcements and improved suspension are really part of the update. The overall drive / ride feel is similar to the Turbo which got those updates in 2022.
DeleteThe 2020 update introduced larger dampers at the front and revised suspension geometry at the back. That one had a markedly different ride already to my 2018/19 diesel.
In short, it's the second major body/suspension update of the CX-5.
And mind you, they are updates that you can actually feel especially if you've gotten to own/drive several generations of the 2nd gen CX-5.
DeleteI got the non-turbo a few months back. I was just wondering if i missed something great with the body frame reinforcements and improved suspension. thank you!
DeleteAnon 9:58 - you got the larger dampers and revised suspension geometry already. The 2024 non-turbo updates did roll out the added body frame reinforcements and the sound absorbing floor pan.
DeleteWith all the updates, it must be confusing finding the right parts for your Mazda. Malamang casa hulog mo.
DeleteDi naman as long as you have the part numbers. I could order badges--both the previous Italic font vs the new Mazda font no issue. But yes...if you're going to order parts based on MY model, it might be confusing.
DeleteMazda really needs to introduce a new replacement to this aging old SUV
ReplyDeleteThe cx 60?
DeleteNot the CX-60. Seems there will be a third-generation CX-5 on the way. It will probably slot below the CX-60 in terms of price and will have a 4-cylinder engine line-up:
Deletehttps://www.carguide.ph/2024/05/mazda-confirms-next-generation-cx-5-to.html
Would still choose this in a heartbeat. Recommended a more value for money brand to my sibling but it's not the same experience as with the Mazda. The gap is night and day when you get behind the wheel. You just get mechanical perfection as compared to others when driving a Mazda which is more important to me than the more advanced tech from newer competitors which you can live without on a daily basis.
ReplyDeleteI would too...but I'd probably either splurge and go for the Turbo or go for the base FWD Sport. I'd probably skip this AWD Sport. I think Mazda PH made a wrong move not equipping i-Activsense as standard equipment on this update.
Deleteme too. i chose the refinement and feel of the CX-5 versus "newer", more tech feature-laden cars.
DeleteI'm sad to say this. But if you were able to get the Forester 2.0i-S Eyesight at ₱1.658m as I did, you wouldn't even consider getting this CX5 AWD non turbo variant. This Mazda is too expensive for its specs.
ReplyDeleteI wouldn't even consider the current-generation Forester. It may be newer on paper, but it feels way older in person. Also dull as tap water.
DeleteAt Forester's full price, yes. But at their discounted pricing, why not? It's almost at the same prices of the Corolla Cross and Yaris Cross HEV, other smaller cuvs incldg Chinese suvs. And with Eyesight and the Forester's safety rating, it is the practical 2nd car (esp if you're not looking at fuel efficiency).
DeleteFrom what I hear, they're starting to clamp down on those heavily discounted units...and they're making it difficult for customers (denying service, etc. etc.). Weird things going on inside Motor Image right now.
DeleteSo get that Forester with a tag of buyer beware at this point.
Weird. Why would they discriminate against buyers who bought their brand new Subarus at a discount versus those who paid at full price?
DeleteDiba pwede yan ireklamo sa DTI?
DeleteWouldn't take a chance with Subaru knowing the cost of their parts when something breaks down or needs to be replaced.
DeleteCouldn't agree more. We had a 2015 Subaru XV and it was one of the worst cars we've ever owned. The ownership experience was so bad that I vowed never to buy a Subaru ever again.
DeleteAnon 1:05 PM - right?! But that's what they tell me. Payback daw when it comes to service. Their words, not mine.
DeleteAnon 3:35 PM - that's the sad part. It's an internal MI issue. Customers believe they purchased the vehicle in a proper, legit manner. In reality though...there's some hocus-pocus going on inside MI.
All the more reason to avoid Subaru then. Thanks for the heads-up sir Uly
DeleteI have a 14 year old Subaru Legacy, 120k+ mileage, all stock and fluids replaced regularly. Wala naman problema maliban sa usual wear and tear. Parts are very easy to source, shopee lang and facebook group, ok na, original pa.
DeleteJust recently had the valve cover gasket replaced. A year ago, replaced the aging plastic radiator.
Except for the shock absorbers and the bushings, its suspension is still original. Front brake rotors have been replaced recently too.
And that's about it. It still drives and performs very well despite its age, even tried reaching above 200km/h once.
CX-9 Exclusive AWD Turbo is dope (especially with the 200k cash discount that they are offering)
ReplyDeleteWhy not bring the CX 50? This is more exciting vehicle that sells well in other markets.
ReplyDeleteSadly? Only available in the US (assembled there) and China. And with China, no plans to offer it outside the mainland :-(
DeleteHi Uly, I'm thinking of getting the Base FWD Sport for the fuel savings as a planned daily driver. But now that the RAV4 Hybrid cut down to a competitive price, would you feel the added fuel savings and grunt of Toyota is worth skimping on Mazda ride quality and interior?
ReplyDeleteRav4 definitely has better ride and refinement than cx5. Cx5 has better interior
ReplyDeleteHi Uly, your thoughts on the Mazda 6 vs the TOTL CX-5 Turbo and Rav-4 LTD? The Mazda 6 has the ADAS features in the CX-5 Turbo and nearly rivals the Rav-4 in terms of interior space.
ReplyDeleteAt P2.15M (2.25 for the anniversary edition) do you think the Mazda 6 represent great value and serves as a good alternative to mid-sized SUV offerings on the market?
Alternative, yes. It's certainly a more emotional choice, great to drive, and all but the problem with the Mazda6 is that it's getting old. Plus, Mazda PH doesn't bring too many of that (3-4 a month at the most) so parts availability might be an issue. Tires, for example, is hard to come by even at Bridgestone.
DeleteCompact SUVs definitely make more sense for our road conditions and some of them offer a good amount of space already.
I'd say...spring the difference and get the CX-5 Turbo if you're considering the M6. Also, they're offering discounts on the CX-5 Turbo right now so the price difference may not be as big.
DeleteHi Uly. How much discount on the CX5 AWD Turbo have you been hearing lately?
DeleteBeen seeing P 150K to P 180K off for cash buyers.
DeleteHi Uly, any thoughts on whether to get the CX-60 or the AWD Turbo CX-5? Other international reviews have reported updates made by Mazda on the suspension and transmission of the earlier CX-60 models. Not sure if these "updated" models have made their way to our dealerships though.
ReplyDeleteReally wanted to get the CX-60 a month ago but held off on my purchase because of the reviews from owners locally and internationally. CX-5 on the other hand has really good reviews but it just seems a little outdated when compared to the CX-60. Plus, there's bound to be an all-new model coming out in 2025.
Looking forward to your response and really appreciate it. Keep up the good work!
The short answer to your question is: yes. Mazda PH has been rolling out these updates as part of service bulletins since the CX-60 first came here. They've been quiet about them since they're not safety related save for the steering issue (https://www.carguide.ph/2024/02/select-mazda-cx-60-cx-90-subject-of.html). I'm actually lined up for the updated CX-60 soon and I'll make sure to publish my findings here.
DeleteMazda PH tells me that the August batch already has these updates built-in straight from the factory. At least you can tell Mazda in general has been responsive vs all those complaints against the CX-60.
DeleteAny word on the jerky transmission issue of the CX60? Wasn't that what disappointed you before during your test drive?
DeleteThere have been a couple of fixes to solve that issue supposedly. I drove the gas already with the first updated transmission software...solved most of the jerkiness, but it's still there in some circumstances. I didn't write about it as the difference isn't big enough to warrant a story. The new updates, however, is supposed to make it much better. Again, a test drive awaits.
DeleteThank you very much sir! Looking forward to that test drive!
DeleteSide question: if you were to pick one as a daily driver (mostly city driving) for a young professional in the early 30s with no wife and kids yet, which one would you pick between the Mazda CX-60 vs Toyota Rav4 LTD vs Honda CR-V e-HEV?
Don't bother getting a mazda with a turbo. It spontaneously combusts! lelz!!!
ReplyDelete