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Mazda’s 2016 CX-5 Grand Touring: greater value, sophistication
Published 8:49 am Friday, April 22, 2016
If you’re a fan of mid-size sports utility vehicles, Mazda’s 2016 CX-5 Grand Touring model is worthy of your consideration.
It was first introduced as a 2013 model, and has received a major overhaul this year to provide customers even greater value and sophistication.
CX-5 was Mazda’s first production model to adopt the KODO design language. Features unique to KODO design, including its front-end presence, a forward-leaning stance, as well as the rearward placement of the A-pillars and compact cabin, realized an exterior design with a sharper sense of vitality and dynamism. SUV
styling completely different from anything that came before it has earned the CX-5 high acclaim.
An upscale exterior is executed thanks in part to a bolder grille, eye-like LED headlights, and 19-inch aluminum wheels machined to look three-dimensional. The lineup now includes eight colors with the inclusion of Sonic Silver Metallic and Titanium Flash Mica.
This all-wheel drive crossover seats five adults. On a recent golf excursion to Avalon Golf Course near Burlington, the CX-5 accommodated four passengers and four full-size golf bags. The 40/20/40 split fold-down second seat increases the cargo space to extra-large proportions – although the passenger count drops to two.
My tester was powered by a 2.5-liter, direct-inject engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with sports mode, which allows drivers to switch drive modes for a more responsive driving experience. The engine delivers 184-horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque with an EPA combined city/highway rating of 26 miles per gallon.
The driver seats high in the CX-5, with a commanding view of the road. And it somehow manages to keep the feel of a sedan, with minimal road noise, easy handling, and minimal jostling when trekking down I-5 or city streets.
Interior accents accentuate that sentiment. Parchment leather seats are cushy, yet supportive. Adopting an electronic parking brake gives the floor console a clean and uncluttered look. A power moonroof brightens the space with rear privacy glass eliminating unwanted glances.
Other goodies include a Bose AM/FM/CD/MP3 system with nine speakers, dual-zone climate control, Bluetooth and two USB ports. Also worthy of note are a rear-view camera, push-button start and heated seats.
The Grand Touring comes with radar cruise control that automatically adjusts speed to a predetermined distance, smart brake support that mitigates or prevents rear-end collisions, navigation system and satellite radio.
Not only that, Mazda adds a load of other safety features that will help protect the family. Highlights include blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, dynamic stability control, traction control, hill-start assist and an anti-theft engine immobilizer.
The Lark clan is “in the market” for this size SUV, which translates into sometime in the next decade. The Mazda CX-5 is a serious contender, although the Mrs. still has more homework to do.
MAZDA’S 2016 CX-5 GRAND TOURING
BASE PRICE: $29,470
AS TESTED: $33,855
Base price includes destination charge. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. Prices may vary at local dealerships.