Mazda takes safety to the Maxx

MAZDA has boosted the safety and appeal of its strong-selling CX-5 mid-sized SUV, with more i-Activsense technology now applied to entry-level versions, and a nominal pricing revision for all but the Akera.

Until now, base Maxx and Maxx Sport CX-5s were available with optional blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward Smart City braking and a self-dimming rearview mirror, but the update now includes the kit as standard.

Higher grade GT versions were already equipped with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as standard fare but now also get the Smart City Braking with forward and reverse function as standard with the safety updates.

With the extra technology pricing has increased by $700 for each variant except the range-topping Akera, which was already fitted out with the safety features before the update. Entry level 2.0-litre petrol-powered 2WD Maxx versions now start at $27,890 before on road costs with a six-speed manual gearbox, or $29,890 for the six-speed auto.

Mazda reports that although the pricing has increased slightly for most variants, the added value represents a relative reduction in the price of $530 for the Maxx and Maxx Sport and $360 less for the GT if the features had been added optionally under the previous pricing.

The now range-wide blind-sport monitoring uses sensors to monitor vehicles in adjacent lanes and illuminates a warning light in the door mirror to alert the driver of its proximity, if the driver indicates in the direction of the neighbouring vehicle the system sounds an additional warning.

Rear cross-traffic alert boosts safety by alerting the driver of approaching vehicles when reversing out of parking spaces, and Smart City Braking System is Mazda’s autonomous braking technology, which applies the brakes when it detects an imminent collision. With the forward and reverse function, it is able to apply the brakes when travelling in reverse.

The new features join an already kit-heavy safety list for all CX-5s, including ABS, electronic stability control, EBA and six airbags.

Mazda Australia marketing director Alastair Doak said the range update would boost the model’s appeal and maintain its popularity and strong sales.

“We are delighted with the performance of Mazda CX-5 since it arrived on the market in 2012, it has certainly been embraced by many, many thousands of Australians,” he said.

“Safety is becoming more and more important to buyers, particularly technology like Smart City Brake Support which is now standard on the entire CX-5 range.

“Adding even more value will keep the Mazda CX-5 at the top of the list for many prospective customers.”

The CX-5 is Australia’s favourite mid-sized SUV, finding 16,428 driveways to the end of August this year. It maintains a strong lead ahead of the second-place runner and Toyota’s RAV4 which has 13,319 sales to its name.

2016 Mazda CX-5 pricing*

2.0L petrol 2WD
Maxx	$27,890 (+$700)
Maxx (a)	$29,890 (+$700)
Maxx Sport (a)	$33,490 (+$700)
2.5L petrol 4WD
Maxx (a)	$32,890 (+$700)
Maxx Sport (a)	$36,490 (+$700)
GT (a)	$44,090 (+$700)
Akera (a)	$47,410
2.2L diesel 4WD
Maxx Sport (a)	$39,490 (+$700)
GT (a)	$47,090 (+$700)
Akera (a)	$50,410

*Excludes on-road costs