Mazda’s compact crossover has always been one of the best models in class and with the updates for the next year, there is no doubt that things will remain the same. For the 2021 Mazda CX-5 version, the Japanese crossover will get a handful of new features, particularly in terms of a new infotainment system. Several more things have been added to the list of standard features, while the new Carbon Edition will be a great choice for all those who are looking for a lot of exclusive styling details. Still, the overall layout remains the same.
This means you may count on a crossover that may not be the most practical in the class, but it offers impressive driving experience, combined with one of the best stylings in the business and arguably the best-looking cabin in the class. Despite the novelties, we won’t see this model much earlier than usual. So, it should hit the market sometime in the last quarter of the year.
2021 Mazda CX-5 Design and What’s New
When it comes to the base design, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 won’t change too much. You may count on the same design that has been around since 2017, which features the brand’s latest, super-gorgeous design language. For the next year, the biggest novelty is the addition of a new special edition, called Carbon Edition. This model will come with several unique styling details and most of them are about Polymetal Gray paint, new wheels and similar details. This version will also come with red upholstery on the inside.
The rest of the novelties is mostly about new features and the most important thing is definitely a new infotainment system, which comes with new software and a large 10.3-inch screen, which replaces the 7.0-inch unit. The new infotainment system includes goodies like the Mazda Connect interface, Mazda Connected Services and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Fans of Mazda’s infotainment system will definitely like the fact that the new screen is also controlled by a rotary switch at the center console.
In the range-topping Signature trim, the list of standard equipment expands and now includes goodies like a higher-definition 360-degree camera, a driver-attention alert, and rear automated emergency braking.
Interior
Other than the new red upholstery in the Carbon Edition model and the larger screen, the cabin of this compact crossover will remain pretty much the same. That definitely isn’t a bad thing. Moreover, we are talking about the best-looking cabin in the class. The layout is gorgeous, while materials feature impressive quality. All in all, we can say that this model is easily on par with premium-badged compact crossovers from Audi or Mercedes-Benz.
The interior quality is really impressive and you will definitely enjoy the ride in this crossover. However, keep in mind that this isn’t the most practical model you can find in the class. Many rivals offer more space in the second row and a bigger cargo area. This one is good for about 31 cubic feet behind the rear seats.
2021 Mazda CX-5 Engine
When it comes to the powertrain, things will also remain the same. Buyers from North America will have a choice of two gasoline and one diesel option. Base versions will come with a naturally-aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, which puts out around 187 horsepower. That’s pretty much okay for daily commuting and most drivers will be satisfied with it. However, the class-leading handling definitely deserves something peppier under the hood. So, it’s no wonder that the Japanese manufacturer also offers a turbocharged version of this engine. With this unit, you may count on 227 horsepower on regular, and a full 250 horsepower on premium gasoline. Both engines come with a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic gearbox. The turbodiesel delivers 168 horsepower and feels pretty torquey.
Mazda has always been great in terms of fuel economy and this model is no exception. The base engine returns around 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. That’s pretty good for the class. The turbo-four is slightly thirstier, while the ratings for the turbodiesel are yet to come.
Release Date and Price
We expect to see 2021 Mazda CX-5 sometime in the last quarter of the year, with the base price around 25.500 dollars. Key competitors are models like Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Focus, Hyundai Tucson etc.