A completely redesigned 2017 Mazda CX-5 debuted at the Los Angeles Auto Show with a new level of sophistication to the already solid package. Mazda said its overriding goal for this focused remake was to create “an SUV all customers will enjoy.” In addition to giving it keener style, engineers enhanced the CX-5’s class-leading dynamics and raised its overall level of refinement and practical technology.
Fresher look
Boasting a sleeker new exterior that reflects the latest version of Mazda’s Kodo-Soul of Motion design language, the CX-5 has more contemporary flair set off with a bolder corporate grille – now carrying a 3D new mesh-style insert — and trimmer front/rear lighting elements. A closer look reveals that the base of the A-pillars has been moved rearward by about 1.5 inches to improve sightlines. The remade CX-5 also will offer Mazda’s new and impressively deep-sheen Soul Red Crystal paint.
Based on a significantly revised version of the current platform, the structure of the 2017 CX-5 has been reinforced with an additional high-strength steel that bumps torsional rigidity by 15.5 percent. Mazda also tweaked the steering to add linearity and retuned the front-strut/rear-multilink suspension to enhance the CX-5’s agility while improving its ride compliance and comfort. A key element of that upgrading involves the fitment of Mazda’s new G-Vectoring Control system introduced earlier on the Mazda3 and Mazda6. This first SkyActiv Vehicle Dynamics technology subtly adjusts engine torque in response to steering inputs to reduce lateral loads generated when cornering. While the new CX-5 retains the same 106.3-inch wheelbase as the current model, both the front and rear track have been widened by nearly a half inch, changes that help improve its stance and contribute to a lowering of its center of gravity. Another welcome touch is the addition of Mazda’s Auto-hold system for its 4-wheel disc brakes — a feature that keeps the CX-5 stopped even after the brake pedal is released.
Added cabin charm
The CX-5’s redesign elevates the inside game. Gaining influences from the larger CX-9, it features enhanced trim materials and a new dash with a 3-binnacle instrument cluster and a 4.6-inch color Multi-Information Display that can be augmented with a new head-up Active Driving Display. Still operated by a console-mounted controller, the 7.0-inch center infotainment screen has been repositioned to the top of the dash for quicker and easier viewing. The CX-5 recasting also brings the Mazda Connect telematics and an available 10-speaker Bose Premium Audio System with Surround Sound and ambient noise compensation.
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While its cabin dimensions remain largely unchanged, Mazda says the 2017 CX-5 passenger compartment does a better job reducing intrusions from wind and road noise, whether appointed in standard black cloth or available black or white leather. The redesigned 60/40-split flat-folding rear seat features a lower hip point and also adds a new dual-position recline function. Accessing the CX-5’s cargo bay will be easier thanks to an available power liftgate. On the safety front, the CX-5 supplements the existing array of driver aids on offer with the latest evolution of Mazda Radar Cruise Control.
Related: See other cars and concept vehicles unveiled at the 2016 LA Auto Show
While the CX-5 will offer both a 2.0-liter gasoline engine and 2.2-liter turbodiesel in other markets, sole motivator here at launch will be the existing 2.5-liter/4-cylinder that currently makes 184 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. It will be backed by the existing 6-speed automatic transmission whether the CX-5 is front drive or fitted with the optional AWD system,. However, Mazda has confirmed that during the second half of 2017, a revised and U.S.-compliant version of its SkyActiv turbodiesel will join the new CX-5’s roster of options. Originally slated to arrive here in 2012, this updated oil-burner is expected to subsequently find its way into other Mazda vehicles sold here, as well.
The 2017 Mazda CX-5 will go on sale in Japan next February and we expect to see it land in showrooms here sometime in the spring, Details on pricing, packaging and EPA numbers will be released closer to the actual U.S. launch date.
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