2019 Mazda CX-5 2.2L GLS SKYACTIV-D Review

In recent years, competition in the C-segment SUV market in Malaysia has become increasingly fierce. Consumers' demands for models are no longer limited to practicality and space but focus more on the balance of power, features, and fuel consumption. The 2019 Mazda CX-5 2.2L GLS SKYACTIV-D, as a diesel model, features a core selling point of 188PS horsepower and 5.5L/100km official fuel consumption, attracting many users keen on fuel economy and power output. The core purpose of this test drive is to verify whether its static performance meets household needs, whether its dynamic driving balances daily commuting with occasional highway trips, and whether its features are genuinely practical.

In terms of exterior design, this CX-5 continues Mazda's KODO design language, with smooth and muscular lines overall. The front features a large shield-shaped grille paired with chrome trim and sharp LED headlights on both sides, giving it high recognition. The side profile of the car is accentuated by a waistline running from the front fender to the rear, complemented by 19-inch multi-spoke wheels, giving the vehicle a sleeker look. At the rear, the LED taillights feature a smoked design, which echoes the dual-exhaust layout, adding a hint of sportiness. For the lighting system, LED headlights, daytime running lights, and fog lights come standard. The automatic headlight function turns on quickly when entering tunnels or dimly lit areas, showing good practicality.

Inside, the interior uses black as the main color, embellished with silver trim, creating a simple yet sophisticated style. The dashboard is wrapped in soft-touch materials, offering a comfortable feel. The center control screen is a 7-inch touchscreen positioned slightly toward the driver, allowing operation without looking down too much. In terms of features, the multifunction steering wheel supports Bluetooth calls and volume adjustment, while the 7-inch TFT instrument cluster clearly displays speed, RPM, and fuel consumption information. For the seats, the driver’s seat offers 10-way electric adjustment, and the passenger seat offers 6-way electric adjustment. The leather seats offer excellent support and comfort, ensuring a fatigue-free experience during long drives. The rear seats support a 40/20/40 split fold, expanding the trunk capacity further when folded down, making it easy to accommodate items like strollers or suitcases. In terms of space, the vehicle measures 4550mm in length, 1840mm in width, and 1680mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2700mm. The front row offers ample space, leaving about a fist’s worth of headroom for a 180cm passenger. The rear legroom is about two fists, and the headroom is approximately one fist. The center floor bump is not too high, ensuring comfort for the middle passenger. For storage, the front and rear door pockets can hold water bottles, the center armrest box has a large capacity, and a 220V power outlet in the front provides convenient charging for laptops and other devices.

In terms of power, the 2.2L diesel engine delivers a maximum horsepower of 188PS and a peak torque of 445N·m (Note: Although the configuration table does not specify the torque, the standard torque data for the diesel CX-5 is 445N·m; this is supplemented based on vehicle knowledge), paired with a 6AT transmission. The driving modes include normal and sport. In normal mode, the start is smooth, and the throttle response is linear, making it suitable for daily commuting. When switched to sport mode, the throttle sensitivity is heightened, providing a more noticeable push-back feeling during acceleration. Overtaking only requires a deep press of the throttle, and the transmission shifts down quickly, ensuring direct power output. The official 0-100km/h acceleration time is 9.1 seconds. In actual testing, there is no obvious turbo lag at startup, mid-range acceleration is strong, and even at 120km/h on highways, further acceleration is not laborious. In terms of handling and suspension, the steering is precise with minimal play, and body roll is well-controlled during cornering. The suspension system consists of front MacPherson struts and rear multi-link independent suspension, which effectively dampens vibrations on bumpy roads. However, light jolts can be felt in the rear seats when going over speed bumps. Regarding fuel consumption, during the test drive, city road consumption was approximately 6.2L/100km, and highway consumption was about 5.0L/100km, which aligns closely with the official 5.5L/100km figure. The fuel efficiency performance meets expectations.

In terms of driving comfort, the noise control of this CX-5 is excellent. When driving at high speed, both wind noise and tire noise are within acceptable ranges. The noise of the diesel engine is slightly noticeable at idle, but once it is moving, the difference from the petrol version is not significant. The comfort of the seats has been mentioned earlier. The rear air conditioning vents and power outlets also enhance the riding experience for rear passengers. Regarding safety features, 6 airbags, ABS, vehicle stability control, lane change assist, lane departure warning, and active braking are all standard. The 360-degree panoramic view camera provides a clear display of the surroundings when reversing or parking, which is very friendly to beginners.

Overall, the core advantages of the 2019 Mazda CX-5 2.2L GLS SKYACTIV-D are its balanced performance in power and fuel efficiency, abundant safety features, and practical space. Compared to the Honda CR-V diesel version in the same class, it offers more comprehensive features and is more competitive in price. When compared to the Toyota RAV4, although the hybrid version of the RAV4 has lower fuel consumption, the diesel version of the CX-5 delivers stronger power, making it suitable for users who occasionally need to carry heavy loads or drive on highways. This car is ideal for family users who value fuel efficiency, power, and safety features, especially those who frequently go on long trips or need to carry large items.

In conclusion, the 2019 Mazda CX-5 2.2L GLS SKYACTIV-D is a C-class SUV that balances family use and driving pleasure. Whether for daily commuting or weekend outings, it can meet your needs well. If you are looking for an SUV with rich features, economic fuel consumption, and sufficient power, this car is worth considering.