2014 Mazda CX-5: The Beefier and Better Crossover
The driver pleasing Mazda CX 5 is back in 2014 and that too with the bang on Touring and Grand Touring Models offering front wheel and all wheel drive options to choose from. Now the compact SUV lovers can also find 184 hp, 2.5 liter inline four in 2014 Mazda CX-5 which is also a high selling point of Mazda6 Sedan. However, going a step ahead from its previous versions, the SUV also sports useful and additional 29hp along with 35 lb-ft of output and all is made available even in the basic sport trim level. Option of automatic and manual gearbox, Mazda built six speed automatic transmission to mate with 2.5 liter CX-5 and an additional piece of Mazda’s Skyactive technology are some things to look out for in the futuristic SUV.
Undoubtedly the all new 2014 Mazda CX-5 has set the soaring high standards for compact SUVs with its smooth handling and driver enjoyment, however the 2.5 liter dispense manages to offer only modest acceleration. Its takes approx 9s for 0 to 60 mph acceleration, but Mazda claims to offer 8s assurance with 2.5 liter version. Competitors offering turbocharged and V-6 engine options are still way ahead from the 2014 Mazda CX-5, but when it comes to driving in twisting tough roads, the car comes as a winner.
The automatic version is surprisingly quick, adept and downshifts crisply with the less sharp upshifts. The base architecture of CX-5 might be copied from Mazda 6, but it lacks paddle shifter or manual gearbox which is a apart of sedan. Like earlier versions, this time as well 2014 Mazda CX-5 offers handling balance, steering wheel, braking feel, ride control and a lot more beyond the ordinary levels of SUVs offered in this class.
The weight of the compact SUV gets modified with the trim level you wish to buy, as the weight gain with new engine has gone only about 100pounds up approximately. The fully loaded diesel version we test drove is packed with standard Mazda features that prominently include electronic gewgaws, 5.8 inch touchscreen, big console dial/mouse device, easier panel to adjust radio volume and station, dedicated knobs and buttons for tweaking climate control system. The design and finishing of the new 2014 Mazda CX-5 is done keeping in mind real people driving in real world, so hats off to the designers.
Although the compact SUV by Mazda is packed with adequate power but it also lags behind with its one negative point, which is occasional intrusion of road noise over coarse road surfaces. Although Mazda is considered quieter than its competitors but this time it disappointed in that department. Clean and functional interior design might look bland to those who have good experience with top end SUV models going beyond $30,000. At this price, Buick Encore has better and luxurious trimmings to admire.
The 2014 Mazda CX-5 has no competition in driving enjoyment that comes with all round balance and excellent ride charm, until you start looking for accelerative thrills to have fun drive above everything else.