The Mazda CX-5 was – for a long time – the dominant, top dog of the medium SUV, under $60,000 segment in Australia. Some refreshed rivals have knocked it off the top position in recent years.
But, according to VFACTS, it remains in third spot to the end of July 2024 with 10.6 per cent market share, behind Toyota RAV4 and Mitsubishi’s Outlander, with the Nissan X-Trail breathing down its neck.
Renowned for its sporty flavour and excellent driving dynamics, how does this ageing contender stack up in 2024?
2024 Mazda CX-5 Akera 2.5T: Specifications
Engine: 2.5-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder
Output: 170kW@5000rpm / 420Nm@2000rpm
Gearbox: Six-speed auto
Drive type: All-wheel drive
Wheels: F & R: 19×7.0, 225/55
ANCAP: Five stars
Tare weight: 1695kg
Power-to-weight: 9.97:1 (kg:kW)
Official consumption: 8.2L/100km
Our consumption: 9.4L/100km
Fuel tank/Fuel type: 58L/91 RONPower efficiency: 20.73kW:L/100km
0-60km/h: 3.38 seconds*
0-100km/h: 7.13 seconds*
60-110km/h: 4.97 seconds*
1/4 mile: 15.19 seconds at 151.4km/h*
Max acceleration: 0.699g*
100-0km/h braking: 41.42m in 3.18 seconds*
Max deceleration: -1.172g*
Decibel at idle: 40*
Peak decibel at 60-100km/h: 79*
Starting price: $55,000
*Figures as tested by Driving Enthusiast on the day. Manufacturers’ claims may be different
2024 Mazda CX-5 Akera 2.5T: How much does it cost?
At $55,000 before on-road costs, the CX-5 Akera 2.5T undercuts some of its chief top-spec rivals, such as Hyundai Tucson Premium ($55,600) and Toyota RAV4 Edge ($58,360). There is also some tantalising in-house competition, in the form of the Mazda CX-60, with its new RWD platform and inline-six engine, priced from $59,990 in base Evolve G40e trim.
It is the RAV4 Edge that arguably exudes more showroom appeal than the Mazda, especially with the additional choice of Nutmeg or black trim, versus the sole choice of Dark Russet Nappa leather of the Akera.
Capped-price servicing ranges between $366 and $849 for a total of $3571 over a period of seven years or 105,000km. Intervals are set at 15,000km or annual – whichever occurs first. Warranty is five years/unlimited km, with five years roadside assist.
With the current median fuel price in Sydney at $178.2/L at the time of writing, it would cost $103.35 to fill the CX-5’s 58-litre fuel tank. With an official average consumption of 8.2L/100km, you get a theoretical range of 707km.
2024 Mazda CX-5 Akera 2.5T: Interior & packaging
We’ve been familiar with the CX-5’s general layout for some time now. It works well, with most things where you would expect them to be. The centrepiece of the CX-5 Akera’s Human Machine Interface is Mazda’s MZD Connect click wheel and 10.25-inch infotainment screen, which allows touch inputs when stationary. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Soft touch surfaces, high quality leather and knurled aluminium effect surfaces on the dash and climate controls exude an authentic and aspirational feel. The weight and feel of all main controls is never cheap and we are pleased there are knobs for main climate and audio volume functions to minimise distraction.
However, despite the luxurious feel, the interior design is beginning to show its age. While the materials and build quality are undoubtedly impressive, the overall layout and ergonomics are getting long-in-the-tooth compared to newer competitors. The CX-5’s integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is less seamless than in some rival systems. This is mainly due to having to use the MZD click wheel to navigate it.
This could be a sticking point for those after the most up-to-date, crispest digital UX possible. The absence of a fully digital instrument cluster also highlights the CX-5’s age, as this feature has become increasingly standard in the segment, but with the clarity of the head-up display (HUD), this is a moot point. Happily, it doesn’t use the same plastic panel as the CX-3 for this.
In terms of space, the CX-5 offers adequate room for a mid-size SUV, though it’s not class-leading. The dimensions of 4575mm in length, 1845mm in width, and 1680mm in height are pretty average for the class, but lag behind some rivals for outright footprint.
The boot offers 438 litres of space, expanding to 1340 litres with the rear seats folded down, which is practical but again, not the largest in its class. The rear seats provide decent legroom and headroom, with good rear seat amenities.
The seats themselves are a highlight, with both heating and cooling functions available, ensuring comfort across a range of climates. The front seats, in particular, are well-bolstered, providing excellent support during longer journeys, with lumbar adjustment. However, the manual adjustment of the steering column precludes the CX-5 Akera from the CX-60’s trick height-setting system.
2024 Mazda CX-5 Akera 2.5T: Powertrain & handling
Under the bonnet, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 Akera G50 AWD features a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, which produces a respectable 170kW at 5000rpm and 420Nm of torque at 2000rpm. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, driving all four wheels. The manual override for the gear selector has +/- oriented in favour of enthusiasts, with forward for downshift, backwards for upshift.
Power delivery is always responsive, with no flat spots, lag or delay in delivery. Shove is strongest at low to mid-range, and therefore usable around suburbia, but it tails off slightly at its peak. A quoted 0-100km/h time of 7.7 seconds is respectable without being scintillating. We achieved a tasty 7.13 seconds using a Vbox and private road.
Thanks to precise steering that has just the right amount of assistance, the CX-5 is a very eager and accomplished driver’s SUV, staying composed on all surfaces, despite our many attempts to upset it. The 225/55 R19 Toyo Proxes bite nicely into the road and don’t transmit any undue noise or tyre roar through the cabin.
Despite the neck-breaking progress of the SUV segment in the last 24 months, the CX-5 still acquits itself as a driver’s choice, proving a more dynamic steer than the Toyota RAV4 – itself rather decent these days.
The most telling comparison comes from in-house, however, in the form of the new CX-60. Despite its brand new rear-wheel drive platform and lovely new inline-six engine, that model feels less sure-footed at 10/10ths than the CX-5 Akera, which has better on-limit manners and responses. Hopefully Mazda exploits the potential of its new rear-drive platform soon.
Ride comfort in the CX-5 is generally good, though it leans slightly towards the firmer side, which some drivers might find a bit harsh over rough surfaces. This firmness is a trade-off for the CX-5’s impressive handling characteristics, but it’s something to consider if ride comfort is your main priority. The suspension does a good job of absorbing most road imperfections, but larger potholes and bumps can occasionally jolt the cabin. The towing capacity is 2000kg.
How safe is the 2024 Mazda CX-5 G35 Akera? When launched, the CX-5 received a full five-star ANCAP rating, but that report expired in December 2023. We’re confident it would still score well, and Mazda’s integration of ADAS systems including rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, AEB, blind-spot indicator and more is very well calibrated, and highlights the difference between a Japanese car and some Chinese newcomers with poorly-calibrated systems.
Once the top pick in its class, the CX-5 may have been usurped but sales remain very strong, despite being one of the older contenders. This is testament to Mazda’s large investment in Skyactiv platforms, engines and transmissions to combine fun-to-drive with Japanese reliability. The Akera still stands up well for its class, but is outclassed for technology, cabin design and space by some rivals.
2024 Mazda CX-5 Akera 2.5T: Key attractions/reasons to buy
- Engaging driving dynamics: The CX-5 Akera offers a driving experience that is more engaging than many of its competitors, thanks to its precise steering, good suspension balance, and responsive engine.
- Premium interior materials: Mazda’s commitment to quality is evident in the CX-5’s cabin, which is well-crafted with high-quality materials that enhance the overall experience.
- Comprehensive safety features: The CX-5 Akera comes with a range of safety features, including a superior head-up display, which adds to its appeal as a family-friendly SUV.
2024 Mazda CX-5 Akera 2.5T: Key considerations before you buy
- Ageing interior design: Despite its premium feel, the CX-5’s interior is beginning to show its age, particularly when compared to more modern competitors.
- Noisy cabin at high speeds: Road and wind noise can be more pronounced in the CX-5, especially on Australia’s coarse road surfaces, detracting from the overall comfort.
- Limited rear seat space: The rear seats offer decent space, but taller passengers may find it a bit cramped compared with some of the more spacious rivals in the segment.
2024 Mazda CX-5 Akera 2.5T: Video
How does it rate against its rivals?
- Price
- Quality look & feel
- Interior tech
- Powertrain performance
- Ride & handling
- X-factor (does it stand out in its class?)
Final word
Despite getting on a bit now, the CX-5 still has its place for driver’s who value engagement, and it remains a very capable all-rounder. It still feels premium and classy and the asking price is pretty good for what you get. The turbo is definitely the pick, because otherwise you miss out on a lot of low-to-mid range urge.
