How does the new 2017 Mazda CX-5 differ from the outgoing model? What components stay the same? The answer is fairly straight-forward. The 2.5L four-cylinder engine and the 6-speed automatic transmission stay mostly the same. Yes, Mazda tweaked the pistons and a few other components to make the high-compression SkyActiv engine a little more responsive and slightly more powerful (187 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm and 185 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm). The transmission remains largely the same. Dimensions of the compact crossover also stay about the same (the 2017 CX-5 is a little longer and a little lower).
Nearly everything else has been changed. Mazda focused on improving the driver and passenger experience. They started with extensive work to make the cabin quieter. They worked on making the suspension a little more compliant without losing handling characteristics. The car has all new style inside and out. Design borrows elements from the successful CX-9, and adapts it to CX-5’s smaller chassis.
Fuel economy numbers are: 24/31/27 MPG for the front-wheel-drive model, and 23/29/26 MPG for the AWD version. Curb weight for the AWD CX-5 is stated at 3,655 lbs.
Pricing for the 2017 CX-5 Sport starts at $24,045 before the $940 destination charges. The Grand Touring AWD model goes for $30,695 before destination. There is a GT premium package that costs an additional $1,830. When all is said and done, a fully loaded 2017 CX-5 could be pushing $35,000 MSRP.
In general, Mazda is aiming the brand is a more premium direction. They say it’s not really about pricing the car higher, although the staring price for the 2017 model is significantly higher than the outgoing 2016.5 model’s $21,795 starting price. The company is aiming to make the overall driving experience more premium.
Have they succeeded? Please come back next week (after the driving impressions embargo lifts on March 13th, 2017). We will have a full review of the crossover then.
In the meantime, here is a sneak peek review of the new CX-5.
