Mazda reveals facelifted CX-5, due here early 2022

MAZDA Australia has revealed its updated CX-5 medium SUV ahead of its 2022 arrival Down Under with the popular high-riding family hauler debuting a new look while promising more comfort and better dynamics when it touches down early next year.

With an entirely new front end and comprehensively redesigned tail-lights, the MY22 CX-5 has taken on a more flowing look that replaces many of the outgoing model’s harsh contours with gentler curves inspired by the current Mazda3.

Each trim level will be differentiated by unique features besides the usual alloy wheel sizes and designs, such as the body-coloured cladding on the flagship Akera, black trim and wheels on the GT SP and the Touring’s lime green grille accent.

The cabin has received a similarly decent nip and tuck, with all grades nabbing new seats and some “new-generation technologies” that are yet to be detailed – full pricing and specifications will be outlined in the lead up to the national launch.

In terms of the powertrains, the familiar array of 2.0-litre petrol, 2.2L diesel and 2.5L petrol engines are expected to be carried across largely unchanged, although Mazda has shown itself to be shunning diesel power recently so a decline in oil-burning variants could be on the cards.

Whether or not any of the powerplants are enhanced or updated as part of the facelift remains to be seen, tough the brand has confirmed that “smoother acceleration” will be on offer thanks to a more “responsive and refreshed transmission”.

The suspension has also come in for an overhaul, with the ‘dampening control structure’ said to be optimised alongside a more rigid body that Mazda claims will help improve ride comfort and NVH levels.

According to Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi, the mid-lifecycle update provides customers with more choice and opportunity to find the vehicle best suited to them.

“A focus on constant improvement and evolution has helped Mazda CX-5 remain a favourite in Australia, with each update building on the winning formula of style, safety and comfort that has held momentum for almost a decade,” he said.

“This latest update meets customer demand for self-expression and personalisation, addressing their style and lifestyle more acutely than ever before

“It also strengthens Mazda CX-5’s position as an important mainstay in our stable, as we anticipate the arrival of new generation, large platform SUVs arriving in 2022.” 

The CX-5 has been one of the dominant forces within the sub-$60,000 medium SUV segment so far this year with 19,918 examples being sold as of August 31, earning Mazda an 18.8 per cent segment share – second only to the Toyota RAV4 (25,873/24.5 per cent).