|
|
VS |
|
Welcome to the new 2018 Mazda CX-5 Vs the 2017 Mazda CX-3 comparison for 2017. The keenly awaited new CX-5 has just been released so it is time to compare it against the competition. We never really ‘got’ the superceeded CX-5 preferring the more flexible interior of the arch Japanese rival the Honda CR-V. The flexibility of the CR-V interior, comfort and quieter ride, it looked nicer outweighed the engine options driving dynamics of the key selling points of the Mazda. So with the all new CX-5 just released we where keen for a drive and through examination. Especially since many will be considering whether to buy the old run out models at a discount or to waiting for a new one.
2017 Mazda CX-5 Vs 2018 Mazda CX-5 exterior design comparison: The old CX-5 was a conservative looking small SUV it was Ok to look at and recognizably a Mazda. The odd beaver like front end was at odds with the rest of car in terms of design. Overall the design looked nice and lots bought it based on the look. The new CX-5 uses the latest design theme from Mazda so has a bigger and sleeker body for an SUV that is clearly cup scale from the small CX-3 but not a shrunken down CX-7. Overall it looks much better than the last model, we can now describe it as a good looking SUV.
2017 Mazda CX-5 Vs 2018 Mazda CX-5 interior comparison: The old CX-5 interior is still a good place to be with good quality materials, conservative design and bling style instruments, however the central stack design still appears to been an afterthought. The seating is very good but we felt cramped or smaller than the CR-V for example. The new CX-5 interior is a noticeable step up in terms of design and materials from the old model. The design is much more integrated, the materials higher quality to look at and touch although the tablet style main screen is no longer trendy but at least they tried to integrate the design via the surround. There is much to like about the interior except for the unreasonably high centre console which looks and feels bulky, robs space and make it feel like a normal car rather than a spacious SUV. Regardless it is a much better place to be in than the $10000 more expensive Tiguan.
2017 Mazda CX-5 Vs 2018 Mazda CX-5 engine and technology: Both have all the latest safety and engine features and Mazda should be applauded for designing the engine and transmission using old tech normal geared and non turbo technology. These factors are the best and key selling points of the both CX-5s. Both models also share the same engines, run on the base 91 octane and use roughly the same claimed fuel consumption although the 2018 CX-5 is a faction heavier and even basic dimensions are the same.
The only issue with the 2018 CX-5 is the in-car infotainment or stereo system. While the navigation is quick enough the menus reasonably short, the navigation control dial is easy enough to use it is still not the same as a reachable touch screen. The lack of Apple car play and Android Auto is disappointing in this price range. Furthermore the new CX-5 stereo system while branded a BOSE is disappointing in terms of sound quality but not volume. Sure loudness or volume is great with tons of thumping and that doesn’t truly distort the music since the sound is already quite muddy or overly equalised. We liken to the sound quality to those Logitech speakers you can get with your computer but with a sub woofer. While Ok, it’s not very good for the price, although BOSE speakers never really sound all that clear anyway.
2017 Mazda CX-5 Vs 2018 Mazda CX-5 on road: The old CX-5 drives really well but it is lacking the traditional SUV steering feel and more like a high rise hatch. That is not a bad thing just not what we are after in an SUV although that may appeal to you. This steering feel is more direct and great if you think that means it handles as well as a regular car but it is regular car from the early 2000’s not 2017. We can only hope the new CX-5 drives as well or better.
The winner of the 2017 Mazda CX-5 Vs 2018 Mazda CX-5 comparison is the new one. It is visually better inside and out than old one. Considering the pricing which is up at the lower model grades and down on the top range there is no reason why you shouldn’t look at one if shopping in this class. So yes, buy the new one.
| 2018 Mazda CX-5 interior |
2017 Mazda CX-5 interior |
 |
 |
| Engines | |
| IL 4 Cylinder Petrol DOHC EFI VVT 2.0 Litre (1996cc) Claimed 114Kw @ 6000RPM Claimed 200Nm or 320Nm @ 4000RPM |
IL 4 Cylinder Petrol DOHC EFI VVT 2.0 Litre (1996cc) Claimed 114Kw @ 6000RPM Claimed 200Nm or 320Nm @ 4000RPM |
| IL4 Cylinder Petrol 2.5 Litre (2488cc) DOHC Engine EFI Claimed 138Kw @ 5700RPM Claimed 250Nm @ 4000RPM |
IL4 Cylinder Petrol 2.5 Litre (2488cc) DOHC Engine EFI Claimed 138Kw @ 5700RPM Claimed 250Nm @ 4000RPM |
| IL 4 Cylinder Twin Turbo Diesel DI CR EFI 2.0 Litre (2191cc) Claimed 129Kw @ 4500RPM Claimed 420Nm @ 2000RPM |
IL 4 Cylinder Twin Turbo Diesel DI CR EFI 2.0 Litre (2191cc) Claimed 129Kw @ 4500RPM Claimed 420Nm @ 2000RPM |
| Weight | |
| FROM 1511 Kg Towing capacity up to 1800kg |
Kerb weight FROM 1440Kg Towing capacity up to 1800kg |
| Fuel capacity & consumption | |
| Up to 58 litres IL4 2.0 Petrol 6.9 Lts per 100km AVG IL4 2.5 Petrol 7.5 Lts per 100km AVG IL4 2.2 Diesel 6 Lts per 100km AVG |
Up to 58 litres IL4 2.0 Petrol 6.6 Lts per 100km AVG IL4 2.5 Petrol 7.4 Lts per 100km AVG IL4 2.2 Diesel 5.5 Lts per 100km AVG |
| Other specifications | |
| 6 speed manual or DSG 7 speeds Overall height/width 1675/1840 Overall length/wheelbase 4550/2700 4WD system: Selectable 2WD or on demand AWD ANCAP Safety: 5/5 |
6 speed Manual or 5 speed Auto Overall height/width 1710/1840 Overall length/wheelbase 4540/2700 4WD system: 2WD or On Demand AWD ANCAP Safety: 5/5 Tyre size: xxx |
| Capability | |
| Angle of: (degrees) Approach xx Departure xx Breakover xx Ground clearance (unloaded) xxxmm Water Fording depth xxmm Max |
Angle of: (degrees) Approach xx Departure xx Breakover xx Min ground clearance xxx mm Water Fording depth xxx mm |
| Performance | |
| Pricing | |
| 2017 $28,690 – 49,990 AUD *Always check with the dealer for up to date pricing and specials accessories etc… |
2017 – 27,890 – 50,490 AUD |