2012 Mazda CX-5 Reviews

The CX-5 replaces the CX-7 and comes in front drive and all-wheel drive with petrol and diesel engines. To keep up with demand the Japanese manufacturer has increased production by 40,000 units a year to 240,000. Orders are far surpassing initial estimates with the annual global sales target being upgraded from 160,000 to 190,000 units for the 2012 financial year.In Australia the CX-5 helped Mazda set a record of 9593 sales in June with the SUV topping the sales charts in the medium SUV segment with 1955. It has nearly tripled sales of the CX-7 and is well ahead of Toyota RAV4, Nissan X-Trail and the Subaru Forester.The CX-5 has nearly 20 per cent of the segment where sales are 30 per cent ahead for the month and more than 20 per cent for the year.The test vehicle was the Grand Touring diesel with six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive for a drive-away price tag of $52,657.Standard fare is dual-zone climate control airconditioning, Bluetooth handsfree and audio streaming, cruise control, USB input, MP3/WMA compatible premium Bose 231-watt amplifier with nine speakers and steering wheel-mounted audio controls.It has power windows and mirrors, remote central locking, keyless push-button start, tilt and telescopic adjustable steering wheel, trip computer, tyre pressure monitoring system, variable intermittent wipers and a rear spoiler.It has automatic headlamps and wipers, leather-wrapped gear shift knob, handbrake and steering wheel, front fog lamps, satellite navigation, 19-inch alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlamps with cornering system, daytime running lamps, power sliding and tilt glass sunroof, rear view mirror with auto dimming function and parking sensors (front and rear).For added comfort there's leather seat trim, heated front seats and the driver's seat has eight-way power adjustment and power lumbar support. The test car also came with the $1900 tech pack of a blind spot monitoring, automatic high beam and lane departure warning system.The turbo-diesel is the pick of the CX-5 range, the petrol being "underwhelming" even if the oil burner is only available in the top specification grades.With 129kW of power at 4500rpm and 420Nm of torque at 2000rpm for a claimed 0-100km/h sprint time of 9.4 seconds (the same as the petrol), the 2.2-litre SkyActiv-D four-cylinder turbodiesel features a relatively low compression ratio and a twin-stage turbocharger for a good spread of performance.The stop-start function unobtrusively cuts the engine at idle to save fuel and cut emissions. My average was eight litres/100km over a wide range of driving and a spirited run from Mareeba to Mt Carbine. Mazda suggests 5.7 litres/100km.A lot of the switchgear and buttons are too low in the centre stack. A good driving position is easy to find due to the reach and height-adjustable column and driver's seat, while the sporty three-spoke steering wheel covered in leather is a beauty.The Mazda has the traditional three-barrel instrument canister design for the analogue speedometer and tachometer, with the third for the digitised fuel gauge, trip computer and outside temperature displays. They look classy back-lit in white but the centre console clashes with its red lighting. There's plenty of room front and rear and a 403-litre cargo area with a retractable parcel shelf that is connected to the tailgate.Safety systems include Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (TCS), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Emergency Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Hill Launch Assist (HLA), Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), front, side and curtain SRS airbags, whiplash-minimising front seats and a reversing camera. It likes to rev but it's not raucous and is extremely refined. The new SkyActiv-Drive six-speed automatic works terrifically with this engine, providing instant and seamless response. The gearbox flicks between each ratio quickly and precisely. There's just a slight hesitation from standstill and then the 2.2D's torrential torque flows rapidly.It's quite exhilarating for a compact SUV and from 1800rpm is strong and steady to the 5200rpm redline. The CX-5 is almost perfect in any traffic situation, from stop-start urban crawl, up a hilly incline or on the open road.It's a quiet engine with minimal road noise and just wind rush from the big mirrors upsetting the ambience, particularly when punching into a headwind. The best part of the driving experience is the chassis dynamics. The electric rack-and-pinion steering system is light yet sharp, providing ease and feedback in good measures. The Mazda handles corners keenly, like a well-controlled hatchback, with a flat and sorted posture, to keep the chosen line.The poise of this SUV is quite unbelievable. It's certainly not as rolly-polly as others. It really can be punted along quite quickly and there's a controlled and comfortable ride as well. Inside is a bit disappointing. There's too much black, from the carpets, to the seats and the dashboard. There's not much to break up the sombre interior and the dash is a bit of a slab too.The CX-5 was a delight to drive across the Tableland and is an accomplished open road tourer. It was a bit of a downhill sprinter tackling the Rex Range between Julatten and Mossman.In diesel guise, the CX-5 GT sits at the top of its class, not just in terms of value, but also dynamics, engine efficiency, diesel driveability, transmission, steering feel, manoeuvrability and packaging.Mazda has the freshest SUV but the upright "toothy grin" at the front and the dark interior are not the most appealing. Mums will love its practicality, ease of parking, the elevated driving position, its economy and stacks of gear. Dad will savour its performance and handling, even if it doesn't look as sporty as the CX-7.

The CX-5 is proving yet another hit for Mazda with nearly 8000 sold since its launch in March, almost as many as the Toyota RAV 4 has sold since January. About 40 per cent of them have been diesels.There are many model choices. Entry level is the Maxx FWD petrol manual at $27,800 (auto $29,800, then comes the Maxx AWD petrol auto at $32,300, the Maxx Sport FWD petrol auto at $33,540, Maxx Sport AWD auto petrol at $36,040, the Maxx Sport diesel AWD at $39,040, the Grand Touring AWD petrol auto $43,200 and the Grand Touring AWD diesel auto at $46,200.Standard equipment includes six airbags, stability control, a reversing camera, a 5.8-inch touch screen, cruise control, Bluetooth, single CD audio with iPod, USB and MP3 connection, keyless push-button start, tilt and telescopic steering column, tyre pressure monitoring, a 60-40 split flat-folding, rear seat and a temporary spare wheel.The Maxx Sport adds 17-inch alloy wheels, satellite navigation, dual-zone climate control, auto headlights and wipers, fog lights and a 40-20-40 split rear seat. The GT adds a sunroof, leather seats, 19-inch alloy wheels, Bose audio, front and rear parking sensors, bi-xenon adaptive headlights, day lights, power driver's seat and heated front seatsThe two-litre petrol engine might be frugal but it is not exactly punchy, developing 114kW and 205Nm and mated to either a six-speed manual or automatic.Its forte is frugality, using a combined 6.4l/100km in the front-wheel drive (FWD) version and 6.9l/100km in the all-wheel drive (AWD). Output from the two-litre turbo diesel is 129kW and 420Nm, making it the most powerful in its class. Fuel use on the combined cycle is just 5.7l/100k, not much less than the petrol so the $3000 premium for the diesel is hard to justify on fuel alone.The CX-5 replaces the CX-7 and although it is shorter and narrower, it has more useable interior space, more hip and legroom and a bigger boot with a lower load height. It is also lighter by about 50kg.Styling has that Mazda family look although the protruding wombat-like nose is not its best angle. The interior is spacious. There are numerous storage options and the finish is impressive. The front seats are supportive, with ample adjustment travel, and the spacious split-fold back seat folds flat in one motion.The automatic on test was at best pottering around town or cruising on level to undulating terrain, but showed a dislike for hills due to its modest torque and need for higher revs. Not helping is the transmission which is programmed to pick up higher ratios as soon as possible, so it constantly hunts between ratios under load and needs constant coaxing on the throttle to maintain cruising speed.In line with Mazda's sporty image, the suspension is on the firm side of comfortable -- compliant enough over big bumps and smooth roads but fidgety over secondary surfaces. Handling is accurate and involving with minimal body roll, the brakes are strong and the rack-and-pinion steering is accurate and well-weighted. Noise levels are low apart from tyre roar on coarse chip surfaces.Despite limited wheel travel, underbody clearance is sufficient for modest off-road forays. But it's the case of economy at the expense of driveability. The diesel, available in AWD auto only, is a much better prospect.The payback comes in performance. With more than twice the torque, it leaves the petrol in its wake for composure and flexibility. And for those who live in the hills, tow or regularly drive with a full load, it will be the preferred option.

Fuel prices have edged higher in the past week and that's the direction they'll keep going for now.This week the Australian Institute of Petroleum fuel price report shows the national average for unleaded petrol rose by 1.5 cents a litre in the past week to 137.7 cents.The metropolitan average rose by 1.8 cents to 136.3 cents, while the regional average rose by 0.9 cents to 140.5 cents.CommSec chief economist Craig James says: "The bottom line is that motorists should expect petrol prices to edge their way higher if the positive mood on financial markets continues.Filling up the car with petrol is the single biggest weekly purchase for most households, so the future course of petrol prices will be keenly watched by any consumer-dependent business."But surely not so closely as they're being watched by you. With that in mind, we've found the cars that on current prices can be fuelled for about $1000 in a 15,000km driving year.These cars get Carsguide's Triple-F rating - they are all family and fuel friendly. We've used the manufacturers' claims for combined conditions, so if you're driving is mainly urban you'll go north of these numbers; if there's a good open road component it will be south.We've taken broad averages to arrive at our round figures (see below) but they are indicative of what you can achieve with judicious driving and making your visits to the bowser on the days of the lowest pricing.ANNUAL JUICE USE TAKES INTO ACCOUNT:National average price in the 12 months up to Friday July 27 according to Australian Institute of Petroleum15,000km annual averageManufacturer's claim for combined fuel useULP: 134.7 centsDiesel: 137.9 centsFAMILY SEDANToyota Camry HybridPrice: from $34,990Thirst: 5.2L/100km unleadedAnnual juice use: $1068.60If Toyota is synonymous with sci-fi looking hybrids, its best one is cloaked in anonymity. Indeed it doesn't get much more anonymous than a Camry, the Hybrid version of which looks exactly like the common or garden petrol version.It shares the good bits - seven airbags, five-star crash rating and a full-size spare wheel - but its economy is staggering: 5.2L/100km versus 7.8L/100km for the petrol Camry.  It's also quieter. In addition to using one-third less fuel, it costs $130 for each of the five services for the first four years or 75,000km.The price premium - $1,500 more than an equivalent petrol-only model - might pay off but the Hybrid model can tow only 300kg and the boot is slightly smaller. The top version, with near-Lexus levels of luxury, costs $41,490.FAMILY WAGONHyundai i40 Tourer dieselPrice: From $34,490Thirst: 4.7L/100km dieselAnnual juice use: $1,001.10In contrast with the gormless i45, Hyundai has done a great deal of local adaptation work on the i40 sedan. Even if the wagon does not yet have its specially-adapted-for-Oz suspension settings, it is a much better proposition than the i45.That miraculous fuel figure is for the manual, the action of which is a bit like stirring a stick though thick mud. Yet while the auto is claimed to use almost a litre more per 100km, on open road run between Sydney and Brisbane Carsguide recorded only 4.4L/100km.In any case, the sheer driveability of a diesel combined with a good auto makes it preferable. In solely city duty, the i40 is more likely to use above 8.0L, which is surely still worth it given the diesel's open road flair.SMALL SEDANHonda Civic HybridPrice: $35,990Thirst: 4.4L/100km unleadedAnnual juice use: $937.20Honda does a couple of obvious hybrids and one that's far less so. And the Civic version is arguably the best of its breed. The new Civic is a big jump from its distinctly average predecessor. It is up on quality and is simply far better to drive.It uses two power sources - petrol engine and electric motor - but unlike the Camry (and Prius) which can separate the two when needed, in the Civic Hybrid they work in tandem.This is technically simpler but returns higher fuel figures. The Civic Hybrid gets 4.4L/100km against the Prius's 3.9. Still, it's more spacious than the old model and needs smaller batteries so the boot is bigger.The rear seats don't fold down to increase luggage space. It gets a five-star crash rating, electronic stability and traction control, brake assist and six airbags, but a space-saver spare.SMALL HATCHVolkswagen Golf BluemotionPrice: $28,990Thirst: 3.8L/100km dieselUnlinkAnnual juice use: $809.40Golf can be played in a range of colours but the most efficient is blue. In VW-speak, it's BlueMotion, the in-house term for those selected models tuned for maximum economy and minimum emissions.The Golf BlueMotion costs $28,990 $1000 more than the Golf 77TDI that it replaced but comes only with a manual gearbox. But you're prepared the shift for yourself in order to save the planet, aren't you?A plethora of fuel-miser tech here  low-rolling resistance tyres,  stop-start system, brake energy recuperation, slippery aerodynamics, tall gear ratios and a gearshift prompt indicator  are added to the already frugal 1.6-litre turbo-diesel. It's also a brisk performer with Golf's usual excellent handling and ride comfort. It works as well in city traffic as it does loping along a country road.COMPACT SUVMazda CX-5 Maxx Sport dieselPrice: from $39,040Thirst: 5.7L/100km dieselAnnual juice use: $1,214.10This slips us well over the grand mark, but torque isn't always cheap especially not 420Nm of it. CX-5s are selling like cold beers at the cricket because they are at least in diesel form very lively, economical and practical wagons.There's no doubt the CX-5's success is due to it enlarging in the appeal of the Mazda3 hatchback. But it's a better vehicle thanks to the SkyActiv tech that covers body, engine, transmission, suspension and platform. The bi-turbo four-cylinder diesel engine has class leading economy via its six-speed auto, despite the added weight of all-wheel-drive. Compact enough for comfort in city traffic, it's also very roomy with excellent rear seat leg and head space. The cabin could be a bit more stylish, but it’s simple and the controls are easy to operate. The rear seats split and fold flat. On the road the diesel version slaughters the petrol model.CITY CARFord Fiesta TDCiPrice: from $21,490Thirst: 4.4L/100km dieselAnnual juice use:  $937.10In any guise the Fiesta is well made, affordable and a driver's delight. As a diesel it's also lean running. Made in Thailand, it's big on value. The 88kW/200Nm make this lightweight city car something of a hot hatch, with steering and handling to match.As with other diesels originally derived from Europe, you have to change gear for yourself, though with the arrival of the next EcoBoost petrol engines next year, Ford's excellent twin clutch automatic could become available. Sedan and hatch are identically priced.Though the five door brings the extra load flexibility of its ilk, the sedan's boot approaches that of the next class up in terms of capacity. It'll swallow a monthly grocery shop all right. The diesel is specially calibrated for maximum fuel efficiency and features a coated particulate filter to keep emissions low. The Zetec spec, at $23,490, is worth the extra spend.

All good things come to he (or she) who waits, so they say. And no more was that borne out than in our relationship with the Mazda CX-5. Having initially been disappointed with the performance of the petrol powered medium-size SUV, colleagues had consistently been telling us to wait for the arrival of the diesel version.Well, the wait is finally over. We’ve just driven the all-wheel drive oil burner and it is a red-blooded road warrior compared to its pale performing petrol counterpart.The entire CX-5 range is replete with standard features, which include air-conditioning, Bluetooth, cruise control, MP3/WMA compatible CD player with four speakers and steering wheel mounted audio controls, plus USB input. Mazda satellite navigation comes with a 5.8-inch colour touch-screen on the dash.Added convenience comes from power windows and mirrors, remote central locking, push-button start, tilt-and-reach adjustable steering wheel, trip computer and a tyre pressure monitoring system for the first time in this segment.Only the best to test, I had the range topping Grand Touring spec model with unique features such as xenon headlamps with adaptive front lighting, daytime running lamps and an emergency stop signal flashing the rear lights under intense braking to warn following drivers.Okay, the diesel is 2.2 litres and turbocharged, as opposed to the 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol. Maximum power is 129 kW diesel to 113 kW petrol, most telling is the difference in peak torque, 420 Nm to 198 Nm. Say no more.An engine stop-start system, called i-stop in Mazdas, cuts the engine when the vehicle is at a standstill with the driver’s foot on the brake. It is restarted automatically when the foot brake is released.For those with an aversion to this technology, the system can be cut off by the push of a dash-mounted button. But keep in mind you’re increasing emissions by doing so.On test, fuel consumption came out at 7.2 litres/100 kilometres on town trips, the i-stop weighing in with economy here; on mainly highway running this was bettered by up to 2 litres per 100 kilometres.ABS anti-locking brakes, dynamic stability control, traction control, emergency brake assist, emergency brake-force distribution, hill-start assist, front, side and curtain airbags all conspire to keep CX-5 occupants safe.The Grand Touring also has the option of features new to this vehicle segment. Lane Departure Warning warns the driver of unintentional lane changes; Blind Spot Monitoring keeps an eye out for other vehicles out of the driver’s vision by means of a flashing icon incorporated in either exterior mirror; and High Beam Control automatically switches between high a low beam of the headlights for optimal night vision.Front and back sensors, plus rear-view camera aided parking, while a premium Bose 231 Watt amplifier with nine speakers helped entertain travellers. The whole thing was topped off by a slide-and-tilt glass sunroof letting in welcome rays of winter warmth.The Mazda CX-5 is the first production model to feature Mazda’s new Kodo – Soul of Motion – design theme, in this case the cheetah, the fastest land animal. The body is supposed to represent a forward-leaning sprinter ready to come out of the blocks; the rear positioned cabin representing a predator preparing to pounce. Frankly, that eludes me. It’s an SUV, for god’s sake, admittedly a sharp looking one at that.With keyless entry, inside the cabin were luxury leather seats, the front pair heated and designed to minimise whiplash in the event of an accident, the driver’s spot with eight-way power adjustment and lumbar support, plus rear-view mirror with auto dimming.A rear cabin area is capable of carrying 403 litres of cargo up to the tonneau cover that opens and shuts with the tailgate, expandable to 1560 litres of flat space with the rear 40:20:40 seat backs folded, this operation taking place automatically at the flick of a couple of levers set into the side walls.No tentative take-off, or the problem of running out of legs on steep climbs a la petrol version. Pressing the accelerator pedal, the diesel test car instantly put its best feet forward.Braking was purposeful, the ride firm and choppy on uneven surfaces – not to the liking of all on board. The speed sensitive steering was well weighted and provided just the right feedback to the driver.

There anyone left in Australia who is not in love with some sort of SUV?Macho looking wagons are the family cars of the 21st century and nothing proves it more than the continuing boom in compact SUV sales. Every month the numbers go up, not just deliveries from dealerships but also the selection of showroom starters. When we decided to rate the runners, as we did last month with small cars, there were far more hopefuls than heroes.The Hyundai ix35 is under-done on styling and suspension, the Mitsubishi ASX is too much like a truck, the Suzuki Grand Vitara is best for the bush, and theToyota RAV4 is flat-out too old. They might be nice, but nice is not enough.So we came down to a four finalists as usual and they tick all the boxes. The Mazda CX-5 and Subaru XV are new and funky, the Kia Sportage still rules for value and local tweaking, and the Volkswagen Tiguan has the right badge for brand snobs.I have driven them all before so the comparison run is more like revision than starting from scratch, although there are still some surprises and lots to consider before final judgement.VALUEThis time we left the final four to you. We want to consider what customers are choosing,, not a set of dream machines, even if that means a disparate group that is something of a mis-match on price and equipment.Surprisingly, the Mazda is the cheapest in our field at $33,540 for the front-drive Maxx Sport, then comes the Subaru at $34,490 for the  2.0i-L, followed by the Tiguan 132 TSI Pacific at $35,990 and then Sportage Titanium at $39,720.But it's not just about price, as the Kia ticks all the equipment boxes and also gets a diesel engine, while the Volkswagen runs up short on some stuff - including a rear-view camera - that should be standard in 2012. As always - at least until the BRZ sports car - the Subaru only comes with all-wheel drive and the CX-5 choices reflect its place as Mazda's new SUV hero and the replacement for the larger CX-7.To put things into sharper focus, the CX-5 range runs from $27,800 right up to $48,190, you can buy an XV priced from $28,490 to $34,490, Tiguan stickers span from $24,490 to $42,990 and the cheapest Sportage is the front-drive petrol car at $26,730.Of course, the Kia scores with its five-year warranty , but running costs also favour the CX-5 with Skyactiv technology that gives it fuel economy of 6.4 litres/100km.TECHNOLOGYThe latest Sportage Platinum finally picks up the satnav promised from day one in Australia, complete with traffic warnings. But there are now two clocks and no temperature display, while the Bluetooth audio streaming as not as good as it was. Hmmm.It's diesel engine means top torque, but surprisingly - perhaps it's down to size and weight - it trails the leaders on fuel efficiency. Dig deeper than the trinkets and it's all about the Skyactiv stuff in the CX-5, which brings a very efficient 2-litre petrol engine and six-speed auto complete with stop-start. That's good because the Mazda is a little drab compared with the Hyundai, and some of the costlier cars in the range.The Subaru looks newest and is well equipped, but its engine - despite stop-start - is lacklustre. It is missing any real verve and the manual gearbox can be a little difficult. It's a good thing it has cushy, lovely suspension.The Volkswagen has a great reputation but there is no reversing camera and no satnav, not even a big display screen in the dash. People who expect to be impressed when they first slide into a Tiguan will be disappointed. They will also be disappointed by the worst economy in the group, although this is partly offset by maximum power.DESIGNThe Tiguan looks old and boxy. There is not getting away from it. And, inside, it's black and drab and proof that the substance-over-style approach of the original Beetle still lurks in Germany. The Volkswagen might do the job, and the boot is easy to load, but efficiency comes well ahead of kerb appeal. The CX-5 is a modern update of the Tiguan look, still built around a basic box but with some nice tweaking and trimming. It's the car the women in the Carsguide crew rated tops, although they could have been influenced by the badge and a classy cabin that is nicely styled and well finished.The Kia has a different shape and that's both good and bad. It steps it away from its Hyundai clone and helps it make an impact in traffic. The cabin reflects some smart thinking but the finishing is not as good as the Mazda, despite all the nice bells and baubles.Which brings us to the Subaru. It's a genuinely youthful shape, looks great in the XV's Subaru orange, and turns more heads than the other three combines. But the XV is a bit plain inside and the design work leaves it short of back-seat room and luggage space, especially compared with the Kia and Mazda. The boot is more like a Mini and nowhere good enough for pram people.SAFETYFive-star safety is what you expect and what you get here. Ok, we're still waiting for the official ANCAP rating on the CX-5 but the Mazda has been chosen as a top safety pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in the USA. There are three child seat anchors in all four, they each have ABS brakes and stability control, with six airbags on three and the Subaru going to seven with knee protection in the XV.Mazda adds a tyre-pressure warning for the CX-5, and has lane departure warning available on some models, while Kia shows an off-road bias with downhill brake control in addition to hill-start assist. The VW has a rollover protection system but the lack of a rear camera is a glaring shortcoming in this field. The Subaru and Kia also score with full-sized spares, not space savers, although this decision really hurts boot space in the XV.DRIVINGIt's hard to make direct comparisons, but here I go. The Kia has the biggest cabin and the most equipment, which makes driving nice. It also rides well, is relatively quiet, and has a really punchy engine.The Volkswagen is nothing special, and that's a surprise with some many impressive models in the family. It just feels old, from the drab cabin to the response from the DSG gearbox, although it does everything I ask without complaining.The Subaru wins me with its looks and supportive seats, but the cabin is too small against these rivals and the engine and gearbox are less than impressive. Fair but not good. Then again, I love the suspension, with the plush ride and quietness it brings.The Mazda? Very nice, but. It gets along pretty well, the driving position is good, and I just know that it's making the most of every litre in the tank. But I remember the arrival of the CX-7, and how it felt as more like a sports car than an SUV. And this time the CX-5 has not moved forward enough when everything new is expected to bounce out ahead of the pack.When we head out for some gravel road and dirt-track kilometres, just to check if the SUVs will survive out of the city, we quickly discover a lack of front-end clearance in the Mazda. The torque of the Sportage is great for hills and the Subaru has wonderful suspension that reflects quality engineering.But then we get to loading, and the boot is the XV is a fail. The Tiguan is good, the Mazda is really good, and the Sportage does all we ask despite a full-sized spare beneath the floor. When it comes to parking, the Tiguan suffers without a camera and the rear corners of the Sportage create nasty blind spots.The Mazda is noisier than I expect on coarse bitumen roads, I worry about the economy in the Kia, and the Volkswagen leaves me cold.But driving is not everything, and I also have to consider the badge appeal of the Tiguan, the rock-solid quality and dealer support of the CX-5, the all-wheel drive security and long-term Subaru reputation of the XV, and the equipment and warranty of the Sportage.VERDICTThe winner? It has to be the Kia. The Sportage is still as impressive as when it finished runner-up in our 2010 Car of the Year contest and comes fully loaded, just the way Aussies like it. It has a huge cabin, drives nicely, gets lots of kilometres between stops with that diesel engine, and has that five-year warranty to provide security for shoppers.The cabin quality trails the newer Japanese SUVs, and the steering still feels a bit wonky for the first 10 minutes, but it is truly the one you would be happiest driving home to the family. The CX-5 is a very close second and would probably have been first with more equipment and an engine swap. I drove an all-wheel drive CX-5 diesel auto straight after the comparison closed and it got me thinking.But you cannot judge what you do not have and, just as a CX-5 with the lot would have been punchier and more appealing, the Sportage would still finish on top if we slapped the badge on a Porsche Cayenne for the same money.I like the quietness and comfort of the CX-5, as well as the cabin quality, but it's not the great leap forward I expected from Mazda. It's doing a lot with Skyactiv but, just like BMW with its overdone emphasis on EfficientDynamics, the mechanical stuff only counts at the pumps and for dinner party bragging.The XV is a coulda, woulda, shoulda sort of car. And third. It's more youthful and has a lovely ride, but it falls short on space and performance. Some people also find the cabin is too drab and underdone, particularly compared with the Sportage.And the Tiguan? I expected more, but wasn't really surprised.Fourth place is a reflection of its ageing design, and the focus on SUVs that has made Japanese and Korean cars so popular, and on reflection perhaps we would have done better with a RAV4 in the field. But you cannot judge what you don't have. So the Sportage gets across the line by a short-half-head in what is really only a three-SUV contest, proving that the Korean carmaker is more than just a dollar dealer in 2012.

‘Zoom-Zoom’ goes the Mazda brand hook - but in the case of the new CX-5, the Japanese automaker’s latest addition to the SUV jungle, maybe it should be just ‘Zoom’. Our recent experience with the petrol-powered version of the new CX-5 performance-wise was underwhelming, to say the least. On the other hand, if perky performance is not near the top of the shopping list, the petrol CX-5 has much to offer.The CX-5 is also the first of Mazda’s new-generation products here to fully adopt its SkyActiv technology to powertrains, body structure and chassis.The body is based on an entirely new structure, uses new materials and is assembled in new processes. It is the first to use 1800MP, a high-tensile steel, the highest grade used in a mass produced vehicle for front and rear bumper beams. The body uses 61 per cent high-tensile steel.The CX-5 is the first production model to feature Mazda’s new Kodo – Soul of Motion design theme – based on the movements of animals, in this case the cheetah.There’s no denying the CX-5 sets the standard for good looks in the medium SUV market as positive comments from interested onlookers proved during our time with the vehicle.The CX-5, from top to bottom, is stacked with standard features, which include air-conditioning, Bluetooth, cruise control, CX-5MP3/WMA compatible CD player with four speakers and steering wheel mounted audio controls, plus USB input. Mazda satellite navigation is based on the TomTom system.Added convenience comes from power windows and mirrors, remote central locking, smart keyless push-button start, tilt and telescopic adjustable steering wheel, trip computer and a tyre pressure monitoring system for the first time in this segment.The Maxx Sport spoils its owners with auto headlamps on/off, dual-zone climate control air-conditioning, two extra audio speakers, leather wrapped gear shift knob, handbrake and steering wheel, wipers with rain sensing function, front fog lamps, satellite navigation, rear seats with 40/20/40 split fold back and centre fold-down armrest.Mazda CX-5 is powered by either a 2.0-litre petrol or 2.2-litre diesel, with a choice of front-wheel or all-wheel drive and in three specification levels - Maxx, Maxx Sport and Grand Touring - all with Mazda’s i-stop fuel saving system in which the engine cuts out when not needed, most commonly when the vehicle stops at traffic lights. It starts up automatically when the brake pedal is released.The review CX-5 we have just spent a week testing was the Maxx Sport 2.0-litre petrol front-wheel drive with six-speed automatic transmission. The DOHC engine puts out 114 KW of power at 6000 rpm and 200 Nm of torque at 2000 revs, good for a zero-to-100 km/h time of 9.4 seconds.As befitting its ‘Sport’ moniker, this Maxx rolls on 17-inch steel wheels shod with 225/65 tyres. A rear spoiler completes the picture as well as adding to aerodynamic efficiency.A new suspension system, with front struts and rear multi-link layout, is lighter yet stiffer and a new steering system adjusts feedback according to speed and conditions.There’s a full suite of safety systems including ABS with emergency brake assist and brake-force distribution; dynamic stability control; traction control; an emergency stop rear lamp signal, front, side and curtain airbags, whiplash minimising front seats and a reversing camera.The test car, in automatic, suffered from sluggish take-off and the problem of running out of legs on steep climbs. This could be overcome by flicking into manual mode and giving the powertrain a hand.Sluggish performance apart, fuel economy is outstanding, the SkyActiv engine. Mazda claims 6.4 litres per 100 kilometres on the combined city / highway cycle. In the CX-5 Maxx Sport FWD automatic we managed 5.8 litres per 100km in similar circumstances.Inside, new seats deliver good lateral and vertical grip and improved thigh and lumbar support. Using two different kinds of black fabric and a new structure, they also weigh less.Quality is carried through to the surroundings, with soft-touch dashboard surfaces and door trim offset by a central panel featuring the glossy piano black treatment pioneered in the RX-8.As for carrying capacity, a tonneau cover that opens and closes with the tailgate crowns a rear cargo area capable of carrying 403 litres of cargo up to the tonneau. That expands to 1560 litres of flat cargo space with the rear seat backs folded.A low loading lip, large rear opening and an automatic seat folding system lift cargo carrying convenience to a new level.

We turn the spotlight on the car world's newest and brightest stars as we ask the questions to which you want the answers.But there's only one question that really needs answering -- would you buy one?The CX-5 is a replacement for the sporty CX-7 SUV. It's a softroader that seats five, available in two and all-wheel drive with either a petrol or turbodiesel engine. It's also the first Mazda to get the full gammut of Mazda's Skyactiv fuel saving technology.Prices range from $27,800 to $48,190. This particular one is $45,190 which includes an auto and all-wheel drive, plus the optional $1990 tech pack fitted. A diesel will cost you $3000 more than the equivalent petrol model.Take your pick. There's plenty of competition in the medium off road segment inlcuding the new Ford Kuga, Jeep's new Compass, the Subaru Forester  to name a few.This one gets a 2.0-litre petrol engine that in all wheel drive guise puts out 113kW of power and 198Nm of torque at 4000 revs. It's mated to a six-speed auto with manual shift capability.Not as well as the diesel, that's for sure. The petrol model has been roundly criticised for its lack of performance, especially its slow throttle response. You have to really thrash it to get it moving and that of course is going to eat into your fuel economy.Mazda is claiming best in class economy with a figure of 6.9 litres/100km. We chalked up just over 500km at a rate of 7.9 litres/100km, most of them freeway kilometres.Gets four out of five stars from the Govt's Green Vehicle Guide (Prius is the benchmark with five stars).Hasn't been crash tested yet but every model across the range comes standard with the highest level of safety features including six airbags, stability control, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake force distribution plus a reversing camera.Boxy design provides plenty of head and legroom, with comfortable accommodation for four adults. Quiet inside apart from the intrusion of tyre noise on coarse bitumen.Easy peasy. Big computer screen. Highish driving position provides good vision. Steering feels direct and responsive. Auto has annoying kick down. Optional blind spot awareness system worth a look.Finish good. Offers plenty of utility and you get plenty of kit for your money. Bluetooth standard, with steering wheel phone and audio controls.A well equipped car for the money but we'd recommend driving both the diesel and petrol models before making a decision.

Just what the Australian new car market needs is another compact SUV .... in this case, the answer is yes.A revolution in manufacturing and next-gen developments of the internal combustion engine - that's Mazda's plan and the first incarnation of all this smarty-pants work by Mazda is the CX-5.The lighter (high-tensile steels make up 61 per cent of the CX-5) but not much smaller successor to the CX-7 - we're in the near-entry level Maxx Sport model, with the petrol engine and the six-speed automatic.The features list for the $33,450 auto-only Maxx Sport has no shortage of gear - automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, dual-zone climate control, a six-speaker sound system with USB and Bluetooth phone and audio link, a leather-wrapped gear shifter and steering wheel, front fog lamps and integrated TomTom satnav.The rear bench is has 40/20/40 split-fold seats and there's also cruise control, helm-mounted audio controls, power windows and mirrors, remote central locking, keyless push-button start, reach-and-rake adjustable steering, a trip computer, a tyre pressure warning system and 17in wheels.The Maxx Sport is expected to account for 30 per cent of total CX-5 sales according to Mazda's forecasts, with 70 per cent of CX-5 buyers expected to opt for petrol drivetrains, but with all-wheel drive (that is expected to account for almost two-thirds of CX-5 sales).Mazda is claiming class-leading fuel economy from the clever Skyactiv-G 114kW/200Nm two-litre petrol engine, which has direct injection and a high 13:1 compression ratio - but it only needs 91RON fuel. It's spirit is willing but the flesh is a little underdone - the little petrol powerplant has similar outputs to the 3 Skyactiv but has to haul another 150kg - you can wind it up but you'll never get near the claimed 6.4l/100km.Mazda says the Skyactiv engine has better low and mid-range torque, but there seems to be less of the former and a reasonable amount of the latter. The test car is running the new Skyactiv-Drive six-speed auto, which boasts a full-range lock-up clutch torque converter set-up that Mazda says gives the auto a more direct feel, more like a manual gearbox.The CX-5 also has Mazda's clever idle-stop system that uses the combustion process for the restart, being less reliant on the electric-powered starter motor; it's also one of the quickest, re-starting within 0.35 of a second. The TomTom satellite navigation system has myriad features for traffic monitoring and route selection, with map updates available for download to the SD card, but several times it decided to flip the view and show me where I'd been. Wistful reminiscing is fine for the bar but not practical in a satnav.The CX-5 is a poster-child for the Kodo "Soul of Motion" design theme but it's not to all tastes, particularly the snout, but it's still prettier than a BT-50. It features the new-look Mazda nose and manages to hide the dimensions - it sits on a 50mm shorter wheelbase than the outgoing CX-7 and it's slightly shorter in overall length (153mm shorter), 32mm narrower, but is 65mm taller.The cabin is spacious and can take four adults and their gear in the 403 litre boot without any problem. What will present an issue is the omission of rear ventilation, something that was absent from the CX-7 - and noted by the manufacturer - but has not been rectified.The cargo area also has a clever cargo cargo that lifts with the tailgate and the 40:20:40 splitfold seats which can be quickly folded flat to expand loadspace to 1560 litres.While a CX-5 has yet to have been slung into a wall for NCAP as yet, the US Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has awarded it a Top Safety Pick rating - it's got anti-lock brakes (with brakeforce distribution and emergency brake and hill-start assist), stability and traction control, dual front, side and curtain airbags.There's also a reversing camera that is standard range-wide, something the Japanese brand says is unique to its model range.Snout-heavy styling aside, there's plenty to like about this little SUV, provided you're only looking for a commuter car and not anything to get adventurous in - there's only 150mm clearance after all. It's easy to get into, the cabin is spacious, well-equipped and comfortable - the driver is well accommodated for as well, with most things falling easily to hand.The steering wheel has key controls and there's good connectivity - the touchscreen satnav infotainment screen is easy to see but it's quirky map-rotation habits were disappointing. The rear passengers will notice the lack of rear vents in summer.A rear seat 12-volt outlet wouldn't go astray either, but apart from those two issues the rear seat occupants have good leg, foot and headroom. The ride is tending towards firm but doesn't cause complaints, the payoff coming in good body control and composed road manners in the bends - the Mazda3 on stilts analogy is apt.Steady pace can be maintained by the petrol engine but it's no fireball - the genuine manual change mode of the six-speed auto makes better use of the reasonable flexibility on offer by the little four-pot. Alternatively, you can wring its neck, but that's going to take the fuel economy north of the nine litres per 100km that was returned during our stint.The little Mazda has what it takes to re-define one side of the compact SUV segment, the on-road runners. In front-wheel drive guise it's not set-up for dirt work, but the CX-5 FWD is smooth, quiet and comfortable, but it's not perfect. No rear vents is an oversight, the satnav quirk was annoying and the diesel AWD promises to be the drivetrain of choice (and worth the $5500) if you want a decent amount of grunt under your right foot.

No wonder they held the diesel back for the launch of this car last month. The Skyactiv-D performs so much better than the petrol-powered model that frankly it's embarrassing. But this performance comes at a cost because its available only with the more expensive models, only with all-wheel drive and only with the automatic. No talk of a cheapie . . . not yet.The five-seat CX-5 is a replacement for the sporty CX-7 and the first of Mazda's cars to feature the full array of Skyactiv fuel saving measures. In the short time that it has been out the petrol model has been widely criticised for its lack of throttle response. But anyone driving the diesel for the first time is unlikely to harbour any of these feelings. With 129kW of power and 420Nm of torque, the Skyactiv engine boasts class leading torque and fuel economy and is so far ahead of the field it doesn't bare comparison.It is 2.2-litres in capacity like the old MZR-CD diesel in the Mazda3 and 6, but this is a much more sophisticated engine. Puts out more power and uses less fuel than either one of them too. Operates at a very low compression for a diesel. This means additional precautions to avoid cold start problems, but the benefits are a cleaner, more controlled burn with a 20 per cent reduction in fuel consumption. You can read all about it here: https://www.mazda.com.au/mazda-news/Hallelujah. As well as the diesel this marks the introduction of Mazda's first automatic to be paired with a diesel engine. It's been a long time coming but it's been worth the wait. Together with the six-speed auto, the diesel accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 9.4 seconds, with a top speed of 204km/h. You can change gears manually via the shifter but really with so much torque on tap there's little need. The engine responds quickly to the throttle, delivering effortless performance.Impressive. Not as smooth or quiet as the petrol engine, but not what you'd call noisey either. The tyres are noisier if anything. Good off the mark acceleration and at lower revs coming out of corners. Doesn't suffer from the awkward kick down issues that the petrol engine does. For those interested the diesel all-wheel drive can tow up to 1.8 tonnes.Like the petrol engine is features start/stop technology that automatically shuts the engine down at traffic lights to save fuel. The diesel is rated at 5.7 litres/100km. Normally the manufactuer's claim does not translate to the cut and thrust of daily driving, but in this case we're happy to report the figure is certainly obtainable. We managed 5.6 litres/100km on one leg of the launch without too much effort. We'd expect figures in the mid 7s for daily use.It's all good until you get to the price because the diesel is going to cost you $3000 more than the equivalent petrol model. It's available with the mid spec Maxx Sport and top of the range Grand Touring models, priced from $39,040 and $46,200 respectively both before on-road costs. The optional tech pack which includes automatic high beam, lane departure warning and blind spot monitoring is unfortunately available only with the Grand Touring for an extra $1990.

There's a reason why mid-sized SUVs outsold middleweight cars last month - and vehicles like the CX-5 have to accept responsibility.The ride position is the only giveaway you aren't driving a sedan. And get your hands dirty, or buy gloves, but try the diesel Mazda CX-5 if you can afford the $3000 premium over a comparable petrol model.The 2.2-litre turbodiesel's 129kW/420Nm has the 2.0-litre petrol four-cylinder's 113kW/198Nm blown away at the lights and the bowser.VALUE The diesel Mazda starts at $39,040 for the Maxx Sport with a six-speaker Bose sound system.Spend $46,200 for the Grand Touring version and there are powered and heated leather seats, xenon headlamps,a sunroof, auto-dimming mirror and front, a nine-speaker Bose sound system and rear parking sensors. GT buyers can also stump up another $1990 for the Tech Pack option (see Safety).TECHNOLOGYThe fuel-efficiency benefits of the petrol skyActiv engine comes at the cost of some performance. Only greedy buggers and diesel buyers want to have their cake and eat it too - and they can with the CX-5 turbodiesel.A claimed diesel use of 5.7 litres/100km with the standard six-speed auto is 1.2-litres better than the equivalent petrol version and comes with double the torque and a decent lick more power.DESIGNThink Mazda3 on 'roids and you won't be far off the mark. The CX-5 is a deep-snouted SUV that is a huge dynamic step up on the CX-7.Interior space is generous as long as three adults aren't in the back preparing to endure an interstate marathon and that practicality extends ito decent storage spaces, topped by a 403 litre cargo area.SAFETYSix airbags, ABS with ESP and traction control and a solid chassis make the CX-5 a five-star car. Grand Touring can spend another $1990 for the Tech Pack option which adds a first for this class in blind-spot monitoring, auto high beam control and a lane departure warning system.The high beam system dips the headlights when it detects oncoming headlights at 600m or approaching brakelamps at 500m. The lane departure system operates at speeds of 65km/h up.DRIVINGThe first set of corners is enough to convince me the Mazda is just about the pick of the mid-sized diesel SUVs for handling and driving feel. There's enough play off-centre to keep things tidy on multi-lane highways but the feedback increases with wheel bias to help negotiate hairpins.The extra weight of the AWD system doesn't help but it is the only option with the oilburner. The six-speed auto is crisp and, despite a stutter off the line, the turbodiesel engine has a great midrange and pulls until close to the 5200rpm redline.VERDICTThere's very little to criticise with the CX-5 - it even comes with a full-sized spare and a decent 1800kg braked towing capacity.A few exterior curves, an understated interior with a high-riding seat that doesn't compromise the sedan handling and a willing engine make the CX-5 diesel a smart choice for buyers who will rack up big miles or just want the extra grunt without the pain at the service station.Mazda CX-5 dieselPrice: $39,040-$46,200Warranty: Three years/unlimited kmResale: N/AService intervals: Six months/10,000kmSafety: Six airbags, ABS, EBD, ESC, TCCrash rating: Five starsEngine: 129kW/420Nm 2.2-litre turbodiesel four-cylinderBody: Five-door wagonDimensions: 4540mm (L), 1840mm (W), 1710mm (H), 2700mm (WB), 1585mm/1590mm tracks front/rearWeight: 1591kg-1687kgTransmission: Six-speed auto, all-wheel driveThirst: 5.7 litres/100km, 149g/km CO2