Mazda CX-5 Takami 2022 car review

MODEL: MAZDA CX-5 TAKAMI
ENGINE: 2.5-litre turbo-petrol four
POWER: 170kW/420Nm
GEARBOX: 6-speed automatic, AWD
ECONOMY: 9.1l/100km, 213g/km (3P-WLTP)
PRICE: $64,290 + ORC

Following the launch event for the new significantly updated 2022 Mazda CX-5 we have been keen to review the top of the range luxury 2.5-litre petrol turbo model – the Mazda CX-5 Takami. Priced at $64,290 + ORC the Takami moves into the premium SUV category.

Earlier our AA Motoring Experts had the opportunity to review the new Activ model, which sits in the middle of the new range priced at $50,990 + ORC. We were impressed with the technology enhancements, which make the Activ a vehicle that handles well in the city and out on the open road, making it the perfect medium SUV for everyday and occasional off-road use.

Now we had our chance to look at how its luxury sibling stacks up.

Appearance wise what differentiates the Takami from its siblings, apart from its obvious luxurious features, is that it combines a unified, one-colour exterior with the brilliant gloss paint of the bright silver 19-inch alloy wheels, which enhances the solid metal appearance of the vehicle.

Origins of the CX-5

Launched in 2012, the original CX-5 was the first Mazda to feature both Kodo design and Skyactiv technology. It set new dynamic standards, changing perceptions of how engaging a compact SUV could be.

The second generation CX-5 of 2017 saw Mazda’s engineers deliver an SUV that took the Jinba Ittai (car-and-driver-as-one) design and engineering philosophy to the next level. Complimented by the introduction of G-Vectoring Control (GVC), the first of Mazda’s Skyactiv-Vehicle Dynamic technologies, it became more comfortable, refined and responsive. Thereafter, successive updates have built on the many and diverse strengths of the second-generation model.

What’s new for the 2022 model

• New exterior styling
• Improvements to on-board packaging and practicality
• Mazda Intelligent Drive (Mi-Drive) drive mode selection
• Enhanced range of safety features

Performance

The Takami gets the 2.5-litre Turbo Petrol 170kW/420Nm turbo engine, giving it an extra 30kW over the Activ. It also gets the same AWD technology as the Activ but with the grunty turbo engine. Fuel efficiency is a claimed 8.2L/100km (NEDC) with a CO2 emissions rating of 191g/km (NEDC).

The 2022 CX-5 introduces Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive), which enables the driver to select the most appropriate drive mode to optimise driving capability with one touch of a switch.

The new Mi-Drive provides safe and secure driving on a variety of road surfaces as well as off-road. There is a choice of NORMAL and SPORT modes for all models. The SPORT mode provides enhanced responsiveness and acceleration by controlling the engine transmission control systems. Additionally, GVC-Plus characteristics have been optimised, providing a direct feeling and improved handling.

While the Takami doesn’t really look the part for an off-roader, along with the Activ model it comes with an additional OFFROAD selection on the Mi-Drive to optimise control characteristics for off-road driving: i-Activ AWD for high traction control and stability; 6AT for smooth and continuous torque control; GVC-Plus enhanced for vertical load and grip for peace of mind.

The i-Activ AWD system continuously monitors weight transfer, based on acceleration and cornering forces, and shifts power to the appropriate wheels, providing drivers a near instant response to inputs. The i-Activ AWD system has been engineered to help enhance the vehicle's performance, while also providing additional safety in various road conditions. After continuous days of heavy rain and the slippery road conditions we were experiencing in Auckland at the time we reviewed the vehicle, the i-Activ AWD system was both reassuring and noticeable.

Various sensors and systems also control the engine’s idling speed for enhanced uphill driving by increasing creep torque, suppressing slippage and supporting strong launches. We didn’t get the chance to test its off-road capability - while we have no doubt it delivers what it promises to, it just didn’t feel right to get such a beautiful vehicle dirty.

We appreciated smooth accelerations with the more responsive six-speed automatic transmission. Updates to the suspension include improvements to the dampening control structure and increased frame rigidity, which help suppress unpleasant vibrations, reduce road noise, and provide a quieter cabin and higher quality of ride comfort. Overall, these enhancements were noticed making the overall driving experience more enjoyable.

Exterior design

The 2022 CX-5 incorporates a new front design which represents a fusion of elegance and the toughness expected of an SUV. Replacing the mesh surfacing, the front grille design now features a three-dimensional series of piercings that appear to float on the face of the grille, giving it a deeper appearance.

The distinctive signature wing that extends outwards from the grille has been restyled with surface forms rather than lines, assuming the look of a sturdy frame to convey the rugged stature of the updated CX-5.

Luxurious interior

From the minute you slip into the soft and smooth Nappa ‘Aged Merlot’ leather seats you feel a little special. And you are in for a treat being surrounded by the luxurious textures of genuine woodgrain and dual zone climate control with rear vents.

Furthering Mazda's human-centric philosophy, the seats in all the new CX-5 grades are redesigned to provide greater stability to help create a natural and comfortable experience.

It is quite a different environment to the Activ model. While the Activ screams adventure, outdoor and fun time, the Takami’s quiet interior elegance presents more of a luxurious cocoon – like the tranquillity of a health spa.

Mounted high and above the centre console is a 10-inch infotainment touch screen, slightly on the small side by today standards. The infotainment system comes complete with all the standard features such as Apple CarPlay®, Android® Auto and Satellite navigation. The graphics are bold and the menu easy to navigate. The 7-inch display is simplistic, projecting key information crystal clear and in full colour.

It’s great to see Mazda continue to have the infotainment system volume dial placed on the centre console behind the gear lever which we find a lot easier to use than steering controls.

The interior is of a good quality fit and finish and the mood (ambient) lighting adds to the feel, although the one up front, on the roof trim above the gear knob is rather distracting at night. Luckily you can switch them off easily enough.

The two-piece, reversible load space floorboard and the tailgate sill are on the same level to aid loading or can be lowered for extra cargo space. The Activ model we reviewed also features a floorboard with a water-resistant side for wet or dirty items.

The rear outer seats are heated (which is great for those cooler winter mornings) but the switches are on the centre armrest/drink holder which when there’s someone sitting in the centre makes no sense as you don’t have access to the switches.

Safety

The CX-5 has a five-star ANCAP safety rating, meaning Mazda CX-5 puts safety as its top priority. With features such as High Beam Control (HBC), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC), Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Smart City Brake Support (SCBS) now standard across the range.

For peace of mind, and perfect for traffic congestion, is Mazda’s Radar Cruise Control (MRCC) with Stop & Go. This great feature adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the car ahead with the ability to bring you to a complete stop in traffic and take off again once traffic moves.

Verdict

The CX-5 is the best-selling car within Mazda’s global model range and it’s easy to see why. Loaded with luxury features it sets a new standard in affordable luxury in an SUV. It drives well too, taking corners smoothly and quiet on the motorway.

We liked the hands-free power tailgate which works by opening the tailgate by moving your feet under the sensor. It can come very handy especially when laden with shopping bangs. 

The Takami seats five people comfortably with plenty of rear legroom. The 40/20/40 split fold-down rear seatback provides great flexibility when it comes needing extra cargo space and with the ability to fold the seats completely flat, we liked that you get a massive 1,340L of cargo room.

It is a little thirsty when we compare it to other fuel-efficient SUV options coming onto the market, which are widening consumers options and qualifying for the Clean Car Discount. The Takami doesn’t qualify as it doesn’t reach the CO2 emissions threshold.

Pros:

• Powerful engine
• Decent level of spec fitted
• Good quality trim

Cons:

• Fuel economy
• Infotainment screen small
• Body-coloured trim not ideal for off-roading

Safety systems

• Front driver and passenger, front side airbags, curtain airbags 
• Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
• Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) With Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
• Child restraint anchor points ISOFIX x2, top tether x3 
• Cruising and Traffic Support (CTS)
• Driver Attention Alert (DAA) 
• Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) 
• Emergency Stop Signalling system (ESS) 
• Hill Launch Assist (HLA) 
• Lane-keep Assist System (LAS) With Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) 
• Manual Speed Limiter (MSL)
• Real Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
• Smart Brake Support (SBS) 
• Traction Control System (TCS) 
• Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) 
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

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