Mazda CX-5 GT diesel 2016 review: Top 5 reasons to buy video
The Mazda CX-5 has become the benchmark for other mid-size SUVs, and the facelift it scored in 2015 has helped it continue to win pretty much every comparison test we do.
The second from the top of the range is the Grand Touring, and like the top three CX-5 trim levels its available with the optional diesel engine. Here are the top five reasons to buy it.
#1 Design
Even though the CX-5’s basic design is more than four years old, it still looks great, balancing SUV proportions with details that match the great looks of the rest of the Mazda lineup. The good looks continue on the inside too, and the Grand Touring’s perforated leather trim is comfortable and easy to keep clean.
#2 Compact but practical
The CX-5 is bit shorter than a few of its rivals, which makes it about as easy to park as a small hatchback. And despite its shorter length, there’s still good room for passengers on the back seat, and cargo (403 litres VDA) in the rear.
#3 Power and handling
The CX-5 is more car-like in its handling than most of its rivals, which is great if you want the SUV look but without any truck-like feel. The optional 129kW/420Nm diesel delivers plenty of easy grunt, and its better fuel consumption (5.7L/100km combined compared with 7.4 for the 2.5 petrol) will mean fewer trips to the servo.
All diesels come with all-wheel drive, which makes little difference around town, but is great for added confidence when driving on gravel or snow.
#4 Multimedia interface
Pretty much everything comes with a touch screen multimedia system these days, but the CX-5’s MZD connect system is particularly easy to use, and all CX-5s aside from the base Maxx model come with satnav built-in.
#5 Safety
All CX-5’s come with a five star safety rating, and the Grand Touring comes with front and rear parking sensors and a reversing camera. There’s also a reasonably-priced option pack that adds blind-spot and rear cross traffic alerts, along with auto emergency braking for the front AND the rear.
Drawbacks
Some important things to consider before you sign up for a CX-5 include the fact that its cargo space isn’t quite as big as some of its competition, and if you’re looking to venture off road, the CX-5 has a bit less ground clearance (150mm laden) than the likes of the Subaru Forester and the Toyota RAV4.
You'll find anything CX-5-related at our CX-5 hub
Related: check out our buying guide for mid-size SUVs here
Plus: find more SUVs under $30k here
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