There are SUVs, and then there are SUVs designed to make you feel something. The all-new Mazda CX-5 falls firmly into the latter category, arriving in South Africa with a sophisticated evolution of one of Mazda’s most recognisable models, and a clear focus on making every journey feel a little more considered
Available for pre-order during July and August, with the first vehicles expected to arrive locally from September, the latest CX-5 brings together sculpted design, smart technology, elevated comfort, advanced safety and the driving philosophy Mazda calls Jinba-Ittai: the feeling of harmony between driver, vehicle and road. We’re taking a closer look at what makes this latest iteration worth paying attention to.
A calmer way to drive
In a world that rarely slows down, the CX-5 is designed around a rather appealing idea: less noise, less distraction and more presence. Mazda has refined everything from the cabin environment to the vehicle’s handling to create an experience that feels intuitive rather than overwhelming.
That philosophy extends to the technology. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, a Full Digital LCD Instrument Cluster and Driver Personalisation put key information and connectivity within easy reach, while the range-topping CX-5 Homura takes things up a notch with a 15.5-inch centre display and electrostatic steering controls.
It’s clever technology, but the intention is simple: technology should work for you, rather than compete for your attention.
Beauty with a practical side
Naturally, we’re going to talk about the design. The new CX-5 brings Mazda’s signature sculptural aesthetic into a more confident, sophisticated SUV silhouette, with premium touches including tan leather interior trim, ambient lighting, roof rails and a power panoramic roof.
Then there’s Navy Blue Mica, a new colour making its global debut on the CX-5. Deep and sophisticated in shade, it shifts character depending on the light — crisp blue highlights in bright sunshine and a richer navy tone in softer conditions.
But this is beauty with purpose. The redesigned cabin offers more rear-seat knee and headroom, while the luggage area has grown to offer up to 964 litres with the rear seats folded. A 40:20:40 split-folding rear seat, lower loading height, hands-free liftgate and luggage-area seat-release levers make the CX-5 ready for everything from weekday errands to spontaneous getaways.
Confidence comes standard
The new CX-5 has earned a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating under the 2025 testing protocol, with particularly strong results across adult occupant, child occupant, vulnerable road user and safety-assist categories.
Its suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems includes a 360° View Monitor, Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Change Assist, Mazda Radar Cruise Control, Proactive Driving Assistance and other i-Activsense technologies designed to keep drivers more aware and supported.
There’s also Cognitive Distraction Detection and Driver Abnormality Detection on the Homura, adding another layer of reassurance.
Made for the drive
Under the bonnet sits a 2.5-litre petrol engine delivering 132kW and 240Nm, engineered to deliver smooth acceleration and confident handling while staying true to Mazda’s driver-focused philosophy.
Mazda has also worked extensively on the details that influence how the car feels on the road. Improved vibration resistance in the door mirrors helps maintain a clearer rearward view, while additional sound-absorbing materials contribute to a quieter cabin.
Even the aerodynamics have been refined, with a 5% reduction in aerodynamic drag coefficient compared with the previous model, despite the CX-5 growing in size and interior space.
The result is an SUV that aims to feel composed without losing the sense of enjoyment that makes driving feel like more than simply getting from A to B.
Because ownership matters too
The experience doesn’t end when you park the car. The all-new CX-5 comes with MazdaCare, including a five-year, unlimited-kilometre service plan, five-year, unlimited-kilometre factory warranty and five years of roadside assistance.
For eligible owners with an active five-year service plan and warranty, Mazda’s Courtesy Service Programme also offers access to a courtesy Mazda vehicle when booking a service, subject to availability and applicable terms and conditions.
Our takeaway?
The all-new Mazda CX-5 isn’t trying to be the loudest SUV in the room. Its appeal lies in something more considered: the feeling that every detail has been designed to make modern life a little easier, more comfortable and more enjoyable.
It’s sophisticated without being showy, technologically advanced without feeling complicated, and practical without sacrificing style.
In other words, it’s not just about changing where you’re going.
It’s about changing how you experience the journey.
The all-new Mazda CX-5. Wonderrrr Awaits.
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