MAZDA has upped the ante on its big-selling CX-5 SUV by popping in a bigger, more powerful engine.
The power, now fitted to All-Wheel Drive Maxx, Maxx Sport and GT models, as well as the new range-topping CX-5 Akera, is from its 6-series.
Recently introduced on the Mazda6, the 2.5 litre petrol engine produces 138kW and 250Nm, making
it one of the best performers in the highly competitive medium SUV category.
Performance aside, it’s also said to be the most fuel-efficient in its class, returning 7.4litres/100km.
Front-Wheel Drive models retain the 2.0litre engine, which has been tweaked to provide better acceleration.
In other changes, Bluetooth has now been upgraded across all models. The new mail function enables SMS, MMS and email to show up on the 5.8 inch touchscreen monitor with messages read out by
an automated voice via Bluetooth-connected smartphones.
The address book now also holds up to 1000 contacts, enabling calls to be made instantly by voice
command.
New exterior colours have also been added with Soul Red, Jet Black and Meteor Grey replacing Velocity Red, Black Mica and Metropolitan Grey.
Prices for the CX-5 Maxx 2.5L start at $32,880, with top dog Akera at $45,770. Prices for diesel powered CX-5 models remain unchanged.