Mazda CX-5 Review | Family SUV | Specs | Price in Australia

The Mazda CX-5 has long been one of the most popular family SUVs in Australia. Since its introduction in 2012, it has consistently topped sales charts and earned praise for its sharp styling, driver-focused handling, and premium-leaning interior. In 2025, the CX-5 remains a cornerstone in Mazda’s line-up despite growing competition from rivals like the Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, and Honda CR-V.

Mazda has not reinvented the wheel with the latest CX-5, but instead refined what makes it so appealing. With Australian families demanding a mix of safety, space, fuel efficiency, and modern tech, the CX-5 delivers on nearly every front. This review takes a deep dive into what makes the CX-5 stand out in 2025, from specs and trims to pricing, safety, features, and ownership costs.

Exterior Design: Sleek Yet Practical

Mazda’s “Kodo” design language is instantly recognisable, and the CX-5 wears it confidently. The 2025 update has subtle changes that keep it looking fresh against newer competitors.

• Front Fascia: A bold grille with chrome accents and slim LED headlights give the CX-5 a premium stance. Higher trims feature adaptive LED technology for improved visibility.
• Profile: Sculpted body lines and slightly flared wheel arches give it a muscular yet refined appearance.
• Rear Styling: The tail-lights are sharp and slim, with dual exhausts on some variants for a sporty finish.
• Wheels: Standard 17-inch alloys are available, with higher trims offering 19-inch wheels in darker finishes.

Compared to rivals, the CX-5 still feels more “European” in styling. While some competitors go for aggressive edges or rugged off-road vibes, the CX-5 leans into sophistication, which resonates with urban buyers and families who want something stylish without being flashy.

Interior Comfort and Cabin Quality

Step inside the CX-5, and it’s immediately clear why it’s a favourite among families. Mazda puts a strong emphasis on cabin design and material quality, often punching above its weight compared to mainstream brands.

• Dashboard Layout: Clean, driver-oriented with minimal clutter. Physical buttons remain for climate controls, which many buyers still prefer.
• Materials: Soft-touch plastics, leather trim in higher models, and premium stitching give it an upscale feel.
• Seating: Supportive front seats with optional electric adjustment and heating. Rear seats recline slightly, adding comfort for long trips.
• Space: While not the largest in its segment, the CX-5 balances front and rear legroom well. Taller rear passengers may feel slightly snug compared to the RAV4 or CR-V.
• Boot Capacity: Around 438L with seats up, expanding to over 1,300L with seats folded. It’s practical for groceries, prams, or weekend trips.

Families will appreciate thoughtful touches such as rear air vents, multiple USB-C charging points, and storage spaces for bottles and small items.

Infotainment and Technology

Mazda has steadily improved its infotainment offering, and the CX-5 benefits from the latest refinements.

• Screen: A 10.25-inch central display sits atop the dashboard.
• Interface: Controlled via a rotary dial and shortcut buttons near the gear shifter. Touch functionality works when stationary for smartphone mirroring.
• Connectivity: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.
• Audio: A premium Bose 10-speaker system is available on higher trims, delivering excellent sound quality.
• Digital Display: Semi-digital instrument cluster with a central info screen for navigation, trip data, and driver-assist features.

While some rivals have gone fully touch-based, Mazda’s system prioritises usability and distraction-free operation, which many drivers still prefer.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Safety is a major selling point for Australian families, and the CX-5 comes well equipped across the range. It continues to carry a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.

Standard safety features include:

• Autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian and cyclist detection
• Adaptive cruise control with stop & go function
• Lane keep assist and lane departure warning
• Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
• Traffic sign recognition

Higher trims add:

• 360-degree camera
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Adaptive LED headlights
• Driver attention alert

Mazda has struck a balance between offering advanced tech without overwhelming drivers. Importantly, many of these features are standard even on the entry-level Maxx trim, which is a huge plus for budget-conscious families.

Engine Options and Performance

The Mazda CX-5 offers a choice of petrol and diesel engines in Australia. While it isn’t marketed as an outright performance SUV, its driving dynamics set it apart from many rivals.

• 2.0L Petrol (Front-Wheel Drive): The entry-level engine makes 115kW/200Nm. Adequate for city driving, though it can feel underpowered on highways or with a full load.
• 2.5L Petrol (All-Wheel Drive): Produces 140kW/252Nm. This is the sweet spot for most families, balancing performance and efficiency.
• 2.5L Turbo Petrol (AWD): Delivers 170kW/420Nm. Strong performance, making the CX-5 genuinely quick for its class. Great for those who tow or simply want more punch.
• 2.2L Turbo Diesel (AWD): Produces 140kW/450Nm. Smooth and torquey, ideal for long-distance drivers or those who tow.

All variants use a 6-speed automatic transmission. While some rivals offer more gears or dual-clutch units, Mazda’s traditional torque-converter automatic is smooth, reliable, and well-suited to Australian conditions.

Ride and Handling: The Mazda Difference

Mazda prides itself on delivering cars that are enjoyable to drive, and the CX-5 is no exception. Even in family SUV form, it handles corners with more agility than most competitors.

• Steering: Precise and responsive, making city driving easy and highway cruising stable.
• Suspension: Tuned for comfort without sacrificing control. Recent updates improved ride quality over rougher roads.
• Noise and Vibration: Cabin insulation is excellent, reducing wind and road noise, especially on higher trims.
• Towing Capacity: Up to 1,800kg braked (diesel and turbo petrol), which is solid for a midsize SUV.

Families who value a car that feels composed and enjoyable will appreciate how “Mazda-like” the CX-5 drives compared to more utilitarian rivals.

Trim Levels and Features in Australia (2025)

Mazda offers a wide spread of trims for the CX-5 in Australia, catering to different budgets and needs. The line-up generally includes:

• Maxx: Entry level with fabric seats, 17-inch alloys, and all essential safety tech.
• Maxx Sport: Adds dual-zone climate control, larger alloys, and more interior refinements.
• Touring: Leather trim, power seats, front parking sensors, and advanced driver aids.
• GT SP: Sportier look with black accents, Bose audio, and premium features.
• Akera: The flagship, fully loaded with luxury trim, 360-degree camera, adaptive LED headlights, and Nappa leather seats.

This wide choice allows buyers to pick a model that fits their budget without feeling short-changed on safety or features.

Fuel Economy and Running Costs

Fuel efficiency is a big factor for Australian buyers, especially as petrol prices fluctuate.

Approximate combined cycle figures:

• 2.0L Petrol: 6.9L/100km
• 2.5L Petrol: 7.4L/100km
• 2.5L Turbo Petrol: 8.2L/100km
• 2.2L Diesel: 5.7L/100km

While not class-leading, these figures are competitive. The diesel remains the most efficient, particularly for long-distance driving.

Mazda ownership costs are generally reasonable, with capped-price servicing available. Insurance premiums are in line with other midsize SUVs, and resale values for the CX-5 remain strong, reflecting its popularity and reliability reputation.

Price in Australia (2025)

Pricing varies by trim and engine. Approximate drive-away pricing:

• Maxx (FWD Petrol): From around $38,000
• Maxx Sport: From $42,000
• Touring: From $47,000
• GT SP (Turbo Petrol/Diesel): From $54,000
• Akera: From $58,000–$60,000

This positions the CX-5 slightly above budget competitors but still undercuts many premium brands, reinforcing its value proposition as a semi-luxury mainstream SUV.

How It Compares to Rivals

Against the Toyota RAV4, the CX-5 offers a more premium interior feel but lacks the RAV4’s hybrid fuel efficiency.
Compared to the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage, the CX-5 feels sportier to drive, though its boot space is slightly smaller.
Against the Honda CR-V, the CX-5 has a more stylish cabin but less outright space.

The key advantage of the CX-5 remains its balance: it may not win in any single category, but it scores highly across all of them.

Ownership Experience and Reliability

Mazda has a strong reputation for reliability, and the CX-5 is no exception. Owners consistently report satisfaction with build quality and durability. Common positives include:

• Minimal mechanical issues
• Strong dealer support in Australia
• Good resale value

Servicing intervals are typically every 12 months or 10,000km, with transparent capped-price service costs.

Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the Mazda CX-5?

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 continues to be a standout choice for Australian families who want style, safety, and driving enjoyment in one package.

It’s not the cheapest, nor the largest SUV in its segment, but it nails the “all-rounder” formula. Families who value a balance of comfort, tech, and engaging driving dynamics will find the CX-5 a compelling buy.

If fuel efficiency is your top priority, you may look at hybrid rivals like the Toyota RAV4. If interior space is more critical, the Honda CR-V or Mitsubishi Outlander may offer more room. But if you want a car that feels a cut above mainstream rivals without the luxury price tag, the Mazda CX-5 remains one of the best bets in 2025.