YOU are now looking at a Mazda CX5 Carbon Edition in, uhh, is that Soul Red Metallic? Anyway, as we like to thrive on bizarrely random information, here goes.
You should know: Not too long ago, Mazda made affordable hatchbacks and a Ford Ranger facsimile. In today’s competitive market, and considering Mazda South(ern) Africa’s current market share, you can’t blame them for dropping the bakkie, tarting up the hatches, and adding the obligatory handful of SUV’s.
Why you shouldn’t: This CX-5 slots into their bizarre badging strategy, uhh, somewhere, as a medium-sized luxury crossover with an old-school 121kW power train and front-wheel drive only. Obviously you can get superior turbo torque from competing brands, and these days, quite a few of them are at or below Mazda’s price point.
On top of that, this free-breathing motor didn’t feel very lively… yup, even in our hood near sea level, until I noticed that it had delivery mileage. So any sluggishness may be excused, until the poor dear has been run in properly. By the way, thank you, Mazda Southern Africa, for entrusting us with a brand-new press vehicle.
Why you should: As an aspiring grumpy old man, I insist on telling you that a non-turbo non-DCT non- air suspension car (like this one) has a much better chance of lasting beyond its warranty. And while I’ll always mourn the loss of Mazda’s cheeky Zoom-Zoom value, this derivative was loaded with automatic, powered suede- and leather-covered goodness.
What else? The media system seemed limited at first but does what is required (and is smartphone compatible), we all enjoyed the crisp BOSE audio system and sharp headlights, plus it has to be typed that every modern Mazda has the right amount of style, proportion and design details. They just look good!
In summary: If you want nineteen gears, active ride and twin-woofer turbos, this is not the car for you. But if you enjoy beautiful design with a luxurious interior, combined with the latest safety and convenience features, any one of the three Mazda CX-5 models is certainly worth a lengthy test drive.
Each new CX-5 is sold with an extremely handy 5-year / unlimited mileage warranty and 5-year / 90,000km service plan, plus your choice of seven colours.
| Engine: | 1,998cc i-4 Petrol |
| Transmission: | 6-speed Automatic, FWD |
| Max. Power: | 121kW @ 6,000rpm |
| Max. Torque: | 213Nm @ 4,000rpm |
| Avg. cons.: | 6.9L/100km (claimed) |
| 0-100km/h: | 10.4 seconds (claimed) |
| Top Speed: | No claim |
| List Price: | From R681,600 |
