About the Mazda CX-5
Allen Shayanmanesh purchased this Mazda CX-5 new for $48,500 (including all on-road costs). Allen Shayanmanesh would buy this car again because: “Was the top-selling SUV in Australia seven years in row. Market has changed a lot since I bought the car but it’s still one of the top-selling vehicles in category and has got a lot of improvements since then. “
How reliable has your car been? Tell us about any issues.
The CX-5 has been reliable enough not needing any extra work to be done at service centre apart from regular servicing recommended by Mazda.
The only issue I had was the infotainment screen anti-glare layer, which faded after almost a year. This was reported to Mazda and they replaced the whole screen under warranty. Also auto-folding side mirrors were getting stuck after every car wash or heavy rain. This was then fixed by Mazda by replacing the mirror motors.
What do you think of the ownership experience with your car?
I never regret buying this car. KF series was a big jump from the previous generation with a lot of improvements to NVH, interior, performance, and value for money. I own two Mazdas and never experienced any issues that would turn me away from the brand.
How has the purchase and aftercare experience been with your car?
The purchase process was straight forward after the initial negotiations. The car in desired trim and colour was available and there was no waiting time like now.
Have been fine with servicing and warranty claims. But this is a personal experience, and based on the service centre I visit with my car. So maybe others have different experiences.
Are you happy with the price and features of your car?
Back in 2017 this was the best I could get with $48,500. Yes, it was probably possible to get into an entry-level luxury brand but I never wanted that.
Akera trim level has all the necessary and practical features one could ask for. The few missing things are ventilated front seats, Nappa leather seat trim, Surround-view camera bigger infotainment screen.
What do you think of the performance and economy of your car?
The 2.5-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine is quite punchy and adequate without the complications of turbocharged version. CX-5 is not most fuel efficient SUV in the market, but almost none are in this class unless they have some sort of electrification (hybrid, PHEV).
What do you think of the technology in your car?
The 2017 KF did not have smartphone mirroring at the time so had to retrofit after Mazda introduced it to its line-up in 2018, and pay an extra to get it done.
Later Mazda also introduced the digital instrument cluster for top of the range CX-5 plus couple of other improvements.
What do you think of the ride comfort and handling of your car?
CX-5 being a Mazda focuses on drivability of the car and handling and a bit of zoom-zoom (compared to things like RAV4 and Tucson, or Sportage) so it is a bit on the firm ride but it has never been uncomfortable.
It is a mid-sized SUV so you still have some body roll but again a lot better than most competitors.