The updated 2022 Mazda CX-5 facelift has been unveiled in Europe, all set to go on sale throughout the continent early next year.
Among the key updates include the introduction of the Mi-Drive drive mode selection, enhanced driving dynamics, new styling and stronger grade differentiation, improvements to on-board packaging and practicality, as well as improved safety features.
Mi-Drive system
The 2022 CX-5 introduces Mazda Intelligent Drive select (Mi-Drive), which enables the driver to select the most appropriate drive mode with one touch of a switch.
Some model grades equipped with i-Activ AWD further benefit from an Off-Road Mode, which makes driving feel more natural on un-made and slippery surfaces.
Mazda’s next generation of Skyactiv-Vehicle Architecture has now been applied to the 2022 CX-5, further evolving the bodyshell, suspension and seats to enhance ride comfort and reduce fatigue.
Mazda says that road noise has also been greatly reduced, particularly when driving on rough surfaces such as gravel.
Design
Design wise, the front of the 2022 CX-5 features a new, more three-dimensional grille and signature wing design. Both front and rear lamp clusters have also been restyled. There is a new exterior colour called Zircon Sand as well.
There is also a new silver underguard-style treatment to the front and rear bumpers and door garnishes, black door mirrors, lime green accents to the front grille, and new wheel designs.
Inside, the CX-5 now offers suede upholstery with lime green stitching and air-conditioning louvres.
CX-5 Sport Black, CX-5 GT Sport
Among the many variants of the SUV is the CX-5 Sport Black, which features a gloss black finish to the front grille, signature wing, lower bumper sections, wheel arches, door garnishes, and door mirrors.
The variant’s 19-inch wheels are also finished in black metallic paint, while the front grille incorporates red accents. Red stitching trims the black leather seats, steering wheel, gear shift lever, and door panels.
Another version is the CX-5 GT Sport, which combines a unified, one-colour exterior and bright silver 19-inch alloy wheels. Meanwhile the interior features Nappa leather upholstery and the woodgrain accents.
Interior of the new CX-5
The interior of the 2022 CX-5 now benefits from a wireless Qi phone charging tray in the centre console.
The two-piece, reversible load space floorboard and the tailgate sill are on the same level to aid loading. There is also a floorboard with a water-resistant side for wet or dirty items.
The updated CX-5’s range of i-Activsense safety systems now includes Cruising & Traffic Support (CTS).
Safety
This system helps reduce driver fatigue by assisting with accelerator, brake pedal and steering operations when stuck in traffic jams.
Last but not least, we have front Adaptive LED Headlights (ALH) that have evolved to give finer control over light distribution.
Successive updates and refinements to every aspect of the vehicle have led to the CX-5 growing into a core model accounting for 21 per cent of annual European sales.
That being said, more details of the 2022 Mazda CX-5 range will be announced later this year.
