Driven | Mazda CX-5 Carbon Edition
Quick Facts:
- 2.0L SkyActiv naturally aspirated engine
- 121 kW and 213 Nm
- 6 Speed Automatic Transmission
- Priced from R564 900
The Mazda CX-5 has been a favorite in the compact SUV market for years, and with good reason. It offers a balance of practicality, style, and performance, making it a strong contender for anyone who wants an affordable yet premium SUV. The Carbon Edition adds a more aggressive edge to the CX-5’s already sleek design, giving it standout looks without compromising the features that have made the CX-5 such a success.
Exterior Design:
The Mazda CX-5 Carbon Edition is all about sporty sophistication. At the front, you’re greeted with Mazda’s bold blacked-out grille with chrome accents, flanked by adaptive LED headlamps that seamlessly blend into the bumper. These give the SUV a commanding presence that turns heads on the road. The black metallic 19-inch alloy wheels add to the car's aggressive stance, and the glossy black mirrors tie everything together for a cohesive look.
Mazda has perfected the art of sculpting its cars with smooth, flowing lines and sharp curves that make the CX-5 appear both muscular and refined. Its pronounced rear fenders and dual exhaust pipes complete the look, leaving a lasting impression from every angle.
Interior:
Step inside the CX-5, and you’re greeted by a cabin that feels both premium and practical. The Carbon Edition combines black leather with suede upholstery, elevated by eye-catching red stitching exclusive to this trim. The electronically adjustable seats come with lumbar support and a memory function, ensuring maximum comfort on long drives.
Mazda didn’t skimp on tech either. The head-up display projects essential driving information, such as speed and traffic signs, directly onto the windshield, allowing you to keep your eyes on the road. For audiophiles, the 10-speaker Bose sound system delivers top-notch audio quality, transforming every drive into a concert-like experience. Wireless charging, smart keyless entry, and a hands-free tailgate add to the overall convenience, making the CX-5 feel as premium as it looks.
Safety Features:
Mazda has also made safety a priority in the CX-5 Carbon Edition. It comes equipped with an impressive array of advanced driver assistance systems, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and lane-keep assist. The smart city brake support is available for both the front and rear, while the driver attention alert ensures that you stay focused on the road.
Performance and Driving Experience:
Under the hood, the CX-5 Carbon Edition is powered by a 2.0-liter SkyActiv naturally aspirated engine, delivering 121 kW and 213 Nm of torque. Paired with a smooth six-speed automatic transmission, the CX-5 offers a responsive and confident drive. While the suspension is on the firmer side, the overall ride quality is excellent. The cabin remains quiet, with no unwanted rattles or vibrations, even on uneven surfaces.
On the road, the CX-5’s precise steering inspires confidence, allowing the driver to feel connected to the road. Although there is a slight delay in power delivery, once it gets going, the SUV performs admirably, providing plenty of punch for city and highway driving.
Practicality and Efficiency:
The Mazda CX-5 is as practical as it is stylish. With 442 liters of boot space, it can easily accommodate luggage for a family road trip. During a recent journey, the CX-5 handled a full load of bags with ease, and its fuel consumption averaged a respectable 8.4 liters per 100 km.
The 52-liter fuel tank might not be the largest in its class, but it’s sufficient for most long drives. At current fuel prices, filling the tank would set you back around R1300, making the CX-5 reasonably efficient for a family SUV.
Price and Verdict:
The Mazda CX-5 is priced from R564 900 while the Carbon Edition sits at R681,600, making it a fantastic option for those who want a premium SUV without the million-rand price tag of its bigger sibling, the CX-60. Mazda’s attention to detail, from the exterior design to the refined driving experience, makes the CX-5 stand out in a crowded market.
If you’re in the market for a stylish, well-equipped SUV that offers great value for money, the Mazda CX-5 Carbon Edition is a solid choice. Mazda continues to "cook" with this SUV, and it’s clear they know exactly what they’re doing.
Mazda’s CX-5 proves that luxury and performance don’t always come with an exorbitant price tag. It remains a top contender for those looking for a premium SUV without breaking the bank.
