November 16, 2016

2016 LA Auto Show: 2018 Mazda CX-5: This is It (w/ 27 Photos)


Mazda is ready to push the compact crossover envelop even further with the unveil of the second-generation CX-5 at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Not much technical details were given during the launch, but it’s said to roll out as early as February 2017 in Japan with other markets to follow thereafter.

With a tagline of “an SUV all customers will enjoy”, Mazda is aiming to improve driving pleasure that everyone, not just the driver, will enjoy. To achieve this, the CX-5 is engineered around human sensibilities and will prioritize passenger comfort with a quieter cabin and a more pleasant ride while not compromising the responsive performance that the CX-5 has been known for.




The design moves further away from the likes of the Mazda3 and Mazda6 and is now closer to the CX-3 and CX-9 crossovers. This evolution of the KODO – Soul of Motion design language remains both sensual and bold while a new color, Soul Red Crystal, highlights Mazda’s aim for beauty and quality. From the general shape, it is clear that Mazda is now relying on more mature sensibilities and as such, is defined by keywords such as: “mature physique”, “elegant form”, and “fine fit and finish”.

Inside, the 2018 CX-5 promises a premium and upscale interior built around ‘ambiance’, ‘form’, and ‘texture’. All elements in front of the driver flow outward from the center of the steering wheel while real wood and metal trims emphasize depth and strength. Mazda has also improved the driving position with the shift knob positioned higher (up to 60 millimeters) making it easier to operate. At the back, the rear seats feature a two-step reclining mechanism (the first for Mazda) for added comfort. Luggage space is more or less the same as before: 505 liters versus 500 liters previously.

Catering to a wider set of audience, the 2018 CX-5 is up to 10 percent quieter than the current model at highway speeds. At the same time, it is available in various interior color packages: pure white, black leather, or black fabric.




The 2018 CX-5 will remain powered by two Skyactiv-G (gasoline) engines in two displacements: 2.0-liter and 2.5-liter while a sole Skyactiv-D (diesel) with 2.2-liters of displacement comprises the diesel-fed line-up. No power figures were given, but it’s safe to assume that all powerplants will receive tweaks and enhancements to provide a more linear driving performance and outstanding fuel efficiency.

In order to promote handling and driver appeal, it has a lower center of gravity as well as wider front and rear treads (widened by 10 millimeters) while the A-pillars have been moved back 35 millimeters compared to the previous model. It uses front MacPherson Struts and rear independent multi-links. Body rigidity has also been stiffened by 15.5 percent. The CX-5 will also receive the new Skyactiv-Vehicle Dynamics suite, the first of which is the G-Vectoring Control, something seen in the refreshed Mazda3 and Mazda6. And as always, the CX-5 is fitted with i-Activ AWD, a predictive type of AWD system that provides surefooted traction without sacrificing much in fuel economy.

The 2018 CX-5 has a lot to live up to given its predecessor has won more than 90 awards and accolades worldwide including the 2012-2013 Japanese Car of the Year.




2018 Mazda CX-5 Specifications:
  • Body Type: SUV
  • Seating Capacity: 5
  • Overall Length x Width x Height: 4,550 mm x 1,840 mm x 1,690 mm
  • Wheelbase: 2,700 mm
  • Engine: Skyactiv-G (2.0, 2.5); Skyactiv-D (2.2)
  • Transmission: 6-speed AT
  • Front Suspension: MacPherson Struts
  • Rear Suspension: Multi-link
  • Steering: Electric, Rack & Pinion
  • Front Brakes: Ventilated Disc
  • Rear Brakes: Solid Disc
  • Tires: 225/55 R 19 (f & r)




15 comments:

  1. Boxy designs with sleek curves always gets my attention.
    Reminds me of the current Volvo design.

    ReplyDelete
  2. It looks like an Audi, especially the interior. Quality must also be superb, based from the material quality from the Mazda 3 2017. I really love the Mazda brand and the cars. Competitors couldn't compete with the design and material quality. The brand I can think are Hyundai and Kia which can compete with Mazda's interior design but not with interior design and material quality. Honda's material quality is good but not that superb when you compare lets say a Mazda 3 Speed and a Civic RS. To those who will oppose my statement, try sitting or test driving a Civic then a Mazda 3, touch and feel the steering wheel, the leather on the door panels, the quality of the leather seats, etc. You'll see. Toyota and Honda just couldn't match Mazda's design and material quality, as well as driving dynamics.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. *compete with Mazda's exterior design

      Delete
  3. ayoown!!! tumama din ang looks!.. at least naiba naman sa itsura ng mga mazdas. ok na. Dehins muna ako mag ka kape.

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  4. Will definitely wait for next year. Found my next ride. Excited!!

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  5. Looks good but I've seen that fuckin design for like a million times already. It didn't shock me like the first time I saw the kodo design. It's new but it looks old already, but still looks good nonetheless.

    ReplyDelete
  6. Lalong pumangit.
    Parang butas ng puwet ng babaeng manok yon bunganga !

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Ano kinaibahan ng pwet ng babae sa lalakeng manok?

      Delete
    2. Para malaman mo, magkatay ka ng manok.
      Puwit lang kasi ng tao at baboy ang alam mo.

      Delete
  7. can you finally turn off the i-stop system permanently?

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  8. Any idea if Mazda plans to bring back the CX-7 nameplate?

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  9. Are the available engines for the new Mazda CX-5 carryover or all-new?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It seems they are carryover. Likely they'll have some tweaks done to them.

      Delete

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