Mazda appears to be setting it sites on Subaru with the announcement that all 2022 CX-5 crossover models will come with i-Activ all-wheel drive as standard operating equipment.
As Mazda’s best-selling vehicle in America, the CX-5 has been embraced for almost a decade for its outstanding design, quality craftsmanship, excellent performance and fuel efficiency. This version features significant vehicle dynamic improvements to elevate its driving experience.
The most recognizable change is the CX-5’s refreshed exterior styling. Designers opted to minimize character lines in favor of reflective body surfaces that create a distinguished, elegant, appearance. The front fascia adopts a new signature wing that extends outward from the front grille, creating a three-dimensional texture that attracts the eye.
My tester, the CX-5 Signature, was powered by a 2.5-liter, turbocharged engine that delivers 227 horsepower, 310 lb-ft of torque, and 27 miles per gallon fuel economy down the highway. The compact crossover seats up to five adults and comes with a generous cargo area behind the second-row seats. The engine is paired with a Skyactiv-drive automatic transmission with sport mode.
Making i-Activ standard emphasizes the enhanced driving dynamics Mazda customers value, and is part of the brand’s expansion into the premium marketing space. The system continuously monitors weight transfer, based on acceleration and cornering forces, and shifts power to the appropriate wheels, providing drivers near instant response. All-wheel drive also provides additional safety on various road conditions experienced in the Northwest.
My week behind the wheel put the CX-5 system to the test, experiencing rain squalls, sleet, mist and even a couple sun breaks. I didn’t venture over Stevens Pass, but I have no doubt it would have passed that test as well.
In addition, the 2022 model introduces Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) which enables the driver to select the most appropriate drive model to optimize driving capability with one touch of a switch.
Updates to the suspension include improvements to the dampening control structure and increased frame rigidity, which help suppress unpleasant vibrations, reduce road noise, and help to provide a quieter cabin and higher quality of ride comfort.
Comfort and convenience features reach premium portions. My favorites were the heated and ventilated Nappa leather seats, Bose premium sound system with 10 speakers, wireless phone charger, navigation system with traffic sign recognition, Bluetooth, four USB ports, power moonroof, and power lift gate.
Other goodies included radar cruise control, an adaptive front lighting system, front and rear parking sensors, high beam control, heated power mirrors, push button start and electronic parking brake.
Top-of-the-line safety and security features have earned the CX-5 a “Top Safety Pick” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, and make this vehicle a smart buy.
A suite of safety features includes blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, rear cross traffic alert, traction control, dynamic stability control, smart brake support,
360-degree view monitor and traffic jam assist.
Base Price: $39,875
Price As Driven: $40,270
Destination charge is included in base price. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. List price may vary at local dealerships.
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