2012 Mazda CX-5 Review
The Mazda CX-5 is an exceptional car both aesthetically and technologically. It strikes a perfect balance between elegance and brawn which appeals to both a masculine and feminine clientele. It is angling for space in a crowded playing field that is packed with big hitters such as the Nissan X-Trail, Subaru Forester, Toyota Rav-4, Honda CR-V, Mitsubishi Outlander and the VW Tiguan. Even amongst these, the CX-5 stands out as it offers some pretty compelling features that are noteworthy.
Detailed Review
The Mazda CX-5 is a 5-seater crossover SUV that has been in production from 2012 to present. It’s built on the same platform as the Axela and the Atenza. The first generation known as the KE series was in production from 2012 to 2017, the second generation known as KF has been in production from 2017 to present. It replaced both the tribune and the CX-7 that were discontinued due to their declining market value.
The 2012 Mazda CX-5 comes with 2 engine options, these are the 2.2 Litre SKYACTIV-D diesel engine and the 2.0 Litre SKYACTIV-G petrol engine. These are linked to a 6-speed Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission and available in both 2WD and 4WD.
2012 Mazda CX-5 Grades
- Mazda CX-5 20C – This is the base grade that comes with the 2.0L petrol engine, 2WD, 17-Inch alloy rims, Smart Start, i-stop, DVD/Radio player and manually operated clothe seats.
- Mazda CX-5 20S – This is mid range grade that comes with the 2.0L petrol engine, 2WD and 4WD, 17-Inch alloy rims, DVD/Navi system with Bose audio, steering controls and automatically operated clothe seats
- Mazda CX5 XD – This grade comes with the 2.2L diesel engine, 2WD and 4WD, 17-Inch alloy rims, smart start, i-stop, DVD/Radio player with Bose audio, steering controls and manually operated clothe seats
- Mazda CX-5 XD L Package – This is the premium grade that comes with the 2.2L diesel engine, 2WD and 4WD, 19-Inch alloy rims, smart start, i-stop, DVD/Navi system with Bose audio and electrically operated leather seats
2012 Mazda CX-5 Interior
Legroom & Space
The Mazda CX-5 is sufficiently spaced with decent legroom and headspace on both rows. At the first row, both seats have excellent legroom and can comfortably accommodate tall people. At the second row, the legroom is ok and feels adequate even for tall people.
Cabin Storage
There are several storage compartments in the cabin that are useful for storing items such as smartphones, beverages, goggles, handbags etc. At the first row there are 4 cup-holders, door panel storage , a storage shelf below the dashboard, a glovebox and the center-box. For the second row, there are 4 cupholders, front seat jacket pockets and door pockets.
2012 Mazda CX-5 Boot Space
With 500 Litres of space, the boot is big enough to carry luggage for a family of five. When extra space is required, the second row seats can be folded in a split configuration to free up 1620 Litres of storage space.
2012 Mazda CX-5 Extras: Paddle shifts, Sunroof, Automatic Tailgate, Cruise Control
2012 Mazda CX5 Safety Features: SRS Airbags, Curtain airbags, DCS and TCS, ABS, Electronic Stability Control, i-ACTIVESENSE, 3 Point ELR seatbelt, Smart City Brake Support(SCBS)
2012 Mazda CX-5 Exterior
The CX-5 has a well crafted exterior with a sharp front and a rounded exterior. All grades come with alloy rims, fog lights and dual exhaust that gives it a sporty look.
2012 Mazda CX-5 Fuel Consumption
2012 Mazda CX-5 2.0L petrol fuel consumption: 16.0 km/L
2012 Mazda CX-5 2.2L diesel fuel consumption: 18.6 km/L
2012 Mazda CX-5 Acceleration
2012 Mazda CX-5 2.0L petrol accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 10.0 sec.
2012 Mazda CX-5 2.2L diesel accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 9.0 sec.
2012 Mazda CX-5 Fuel Tank Capacity: 56 Litres for 2WD and 58 Litres for 4WD
2012 Mazda CX-5 Stability and Handling
The Mazda CX-5 is a well engineered car with a solid suspension and a perfectly weighted steering. It feels stable on the road with minimal body roll around corners. The petrol engine takes slightly longer to accelerate but once it gains speed it moves effortlessly.
Mazda CX-5 Service Intervals
Minor Service: At 10,000 km for petrol and 5,000 km for diesel. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil
Major Service: At 15,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil
2012 Mazda CX-5 Maintenance – Spare Parts Availability, Cost & Where to buy
Service parts are affordable and widely available in Kenya. Body parts are expensive for now and not as easily available. In Nairobi, most spare shops in Industrial Area and Kirinyaga Road stock the service parts.
2012 Mazda CX-5 Reliability
Mazda builds reliable cars and the CX-5 is no exception. The diesel engine requires extra care and it can be problematic if not properly maintained. We have conducted a detailed analysis of the CX-5 by interviewing current owners, mechanics and dealers to come up with bullet proof guidelines for potential buyers and owners. All this information is contained in the Mazda CX-5 Buyer’s Guide. It’s a book available for purchase and we highly recommend it for first time buyers and owners. Click here to purchase the Mazda CX-5 Buyer’s Guide
Resale Value: Average
Mazda CX-5 Competitors: Nissan X-Trail, Subaru Forester, Toyota Rav-4, Honda CR-V, Mitsubishi Outlander and the VW Tiguan. For a detailed comparison, refer to the Mazda CX-5 Buyer’s Guide
Cost of Ownership
Purchase Price: See Latest Mazda CX5 Prices
Comprehensive Insurance: Average Ksh. 55,000/ per annum- Or
3rd Party Insurance: Ksh. 7,000/- per annum
Change of Tyres(If neccessary) Ksh. 40,000/- for 4 Tyres
What we like about the 2012 Mazda CX-5
1. Excellent handling and ride characteristics
2. Spacious interior
3. Good fuel economy
What we don’t
1. Expensive body parts
Conclusion
The Mazda CX-5 is an excellent SUV that is ideal for both urban and upcountry dwellers. Though it’s a late entrant to the crowded SUV field, we think it will do extremely well in this market thanks to its solid reputation and excellent build quality. Now is the time to get yours before the prices hit the roof.
We also advise that you thoroughly read the Owner’s Manual as it contains vital information on how the car should be maintained. Download the 2012 Mazda CX-5 Owner’s Manual here.
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