2024 Mazda CX-5 2.2D 2WD High Review

In Malaysia's C-segment SUV market, high cost-performance and comprehensive configurations have always been the core demands of consumers. Many models try to strike a balance between practicality and comfort, but very few truly achieve both. The 2024 Mazda CX-5 2.2D 2WD High, as a popular contender in this segment, highlights a 191PS diesel engine, abundant intelligent safety features, and a comfortable driving experience as its key selling points, attracting the attention of both family users and consumers who value driving quality. The main purpose of this test drive is to verify the vehicle's performance in daily commuting, weekend family trips, and other scenarios, to see if it can truly meet the dual needs of 'balance' and 'quality'.

When we first saw the 2024 CX-5 2.2D 2WD High, its overall design continues Mazda's signature Kodo design language but with more refined details. The front sports a large shield-shaped grille, complemented by chrome accents and sharp LED headlights on both sides, creating a high level of recognition; the side profile features smooth lines flowing from the fender to the rear, with strong character lines enhancing the muscular appearance, while 19-inch multi-spoke wheels elevate the visual appeal, matching the robust positioning of an SUV; at the rear, the LED taillights feature smoked treatments, and the dual-outlet exhaust layout complements the steady yet sporty style. As for the lighting system, it comes standard with LED headlights equipped with automatic lighting, providing clear nighttime illumination. The addition of front fog lights and daytime running lights further enhances driving safety.

Stepping into the car, the materials and layout of the interior leave a positive first impression. The dashboard is covered with soft-touch materials, accented with silver trim, delivering a quality feel that exceeds many models at similar price points. A 7-inch full-color touchscreen sits atop the dashboard. The operation is smooth, though the screen size seems a bit conservative by today’s standards; physical buttons are retained below for ease of use while driving. In terms of configuration, the driver's seat is 10-way electrically adjustable, while the passenger seat is 6-way adjustable. Both seats allow for multi-angle adjustments, making it easy to find a comfortable seating position. The dual-zone automatic air conditioning allows independent adjustment for front and rear seating areas, and the rear row also features air vents to cater to the needs of passengers in the back seats. Notably, the car is equipped with a 220V/230V power outlet, which is very practical for users needing to connect external devices.

In terms of space performance, the CX-5’s dimensions are 4550mm×1840mm×1680mm, with a wheelbase of 2700mm, which is on par with other vehicles in the C-segment SUV category. The front row offers ample space, with a passenger height of 175 cm still having a fist and a half of headroom. The rear legroom is about two fists, and headroom is about one fist, ensuring ample space even for three passengers in the back seat without making it feel crowded. As for storage capabilities, the trunk offers a standard volume of 442L, capable of accommodating three 20-inch suitcases with ease. The rear seats support a 40/20/40 split-fold design, which allows for expanded cargo space when folded down, making it convenient for transporting bulky items. Additionally, door panel storage compartments, the central armrest box, and other small storage spaces inside the car are sufficient for everyday use.

In terms of powertrain, this car is equipped with a 2.2L diesel engine, delivering a maximum power of 140kW (191PS) and a maximum torque of 450N·m, paired with a 6AT transmission. During actual driving, the power response during the starting phase is not particularly brisk, but as the rpm increases, the torque advantage of the diesel engine becomes increasingly apparent, providing strong acceleration in the mid-to-late range. During overtaking, a slight press on the accelerator is enough to give a noticeable push-back sensation. When switched to sport mode, the transmission’s shift logic becomes more aggressive, and the power output is more direct, suitable for scenarios requiring rapid acceleration. However, when driving at low speeds in congested traffic, the transmission occasionally exhibits minor shift shocks, but overall performance is still within an acceptable range.

The handling and chassis performance are one of the highlights of the CX-5. The steering wheel offers precise handling with minimal play, and it becomes steadier during high-speed driving, giving the driver plenty of confidence. The suspension system adopts a front MacPherson and rear multi-link independent suspension combination, tuned for comfort without sacrificing support. When passing over bumpy roads, the suspension effectively filters out most minor vibrations, ensuring rear-seat passengers do not feel significant jolts. During cornering, the body roll is well-controlled, and the suspension provides adequate support to keep the vehicle stable. Additionally, this car has a minimum ground clearance of 195mm, offering good passability and making it capable of handling lightly unpaved roads without issues.

In terms of fuel consumption, the official combined fuel consumption figure is 5.5L/100km. During our actual test drive, with urban roads and highways each accounting for half of the journey, we measured a fuel consumption of approximately 6.2L/100km. Considering real-world driving conditions and driving habits, this result is quite impressive and can effectively reduce daily operating costs. Regarding noise control, the cabin's sound insulation performance is good, with both wind and tire noise at acceptable levels during high-speed driving. The noise of the diesel engine is also not particularly noticeable inside the vehicle, ensuring a comfortable driving and riding experience.

When it comes to safety features, the CX-5 performs very comprehensively, featuring 6 airbags, ABS, vehicle stability control, lane change assist, lane departure warning, active braking, and a series of active safety configurations as standard. The addition of a 360-degree panoramic camera and front and rear parking sensors also makes parking much easier. These features are relatively abundant among vehicles in the same price range, providing all-around safety protection for users.

To sum up, the core strengths of the 2024 Mazda CX-5 2.2D 2WD High lie in its balanced product capabilities: the low fuel consumption and high torque of the diesel engine cater to both economic and power demands, while the rich safety features and comfortable interior materials enhance the driving experience. Its flexible spatial accommodations meet the multi-scenario needs of family users. Compared to competitors in its class, such as the Honda CR-V diesel version, the CX-5 offers a more competitive price and a more comprehensive feature set; compared to the Toyota RAV4, its diesel engine has a significant advantage in torque output.

This car is clearly suited for specific groups: family users focusing on fuel economy and a balance of power, as well as young consumers pursuing driving quality and safety features. Whether for daily commuting, weekend family outings, or long-distance driving, it can provide a pleasant experience. If you are looking for a C-class SUV with no obvious shortcomings and balanced overall performance, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 2.2D 2WD High is worth considering.