Ever since the launch of the first-generation Mazda CX-5 in 2012, the CX-5 has always been an SUV that delivered on the ‘sport’ in Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV). Across both previous generations it was praised by media and customers alike for its combination of driver engagement and comfort. Communicative steering, excellent body control, nimble handling and a well-considered ride combined to make a great day-to-day driving experience.

During the development of the all-new third-generation model, Mazda’s commitment to retaining the CX-5’s jinba ittai feeling of oneness between car and driver was a high priority - in fact the all-new CX-5 sets the bar even higher, enhancing everyday comfort and quietness while deepening the connection between car and driver.

The all-new Mazda CX-5 features updates to the chassis and suspension with softer springs, re-sized anti-roll bars and carefully tuned dampers to better absorb road imperfections. Additionally, rebound damping has been increased front and rear to create better control at lower damper piston speeds. This provides better stability in cornering, while still ensuring a stable and smooth ride. At higher damper piston speeds the enhanced damping more effectively absorbs vibrations from uneven road surfaces improving overall comfort.

With a specification matched to both wheel sizes in the line-up, all models feature a new OEM tyre supply fitment engineered for improved grip and reduced rolling resistance, ensuring the tyres and vehicle set up work together to deliver a well-sorted balance of grip and efficiency. As part of this, the all-new CX-5’s steering feel has been refined to offer a lighter yet more accurate feel, ensuring precision and connection. These revised power steering control settings enhance the jinba ittai feeling from behind the wheel of the CX-5, enabling precise inputs and response with reduced effort.

The pedal response has also been refined to deliver a swifter, more predictable feel and consistent acceleration without gaps or delays. This allows for a more natural and engaging driver experience and makes forward movement smoother for passengers. Comfort for both driver and passenger has also been improved with a new seat design that reduces body sway thanks to the shape and cushioning under the pelvis to keep the spine in a natural S-curve position.

While the majority of cars sold in the UK are front-wheel drive, the all-new Mazda CX-5 retains the option of choosing all-wheel drive. Exclusive-Line and Homura models are available with Mazda’s i-Activ AWD system, which works together with G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC Plus) to provide greater control in varied driving conditions. When entering a corner, the GVC Plus system shifts torque across the axle and adjusts the load balance to improve steering response. Working in conjunction with GVC Plus, the i-Activ AWD drive increases drive to the rear-wheels during cornering to improve stability and traction, shifting forward again when exiting the corner, effortlessly helping traction and stability.

In addition to confident handling and improved traction, all-wheel drive is also well suited to towing. Both the front and all-wheel drive versions of the all-new Mazda CX-5 have a braked towing capability of 2,000kg, making it suitable for trailers, caravans and a wide range of lifestyles.

When it comes to making the all-new CX-5 a fully rounded package, the improvement of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) factors was of equal importance to ensuring the CX-5’s dynamic abilities. With this in mind additional sound-absorbing and insulating materials have been placed in key areas, while precisely tuning the vibration of each component allows unwanted sounds to be minimised. In addition, the updated e-Skyactiv G engine is equipped with a balancer shaft to reduce vibrations and low-frequency noise.

Mazda’s focus on creating a quieter and more comfortable cabin goes hand-in-hand with the focus on a great driving position and the engineering of a dynamically engaging car. They all come together to ensure the Mazda CX-5 is more refined, sharper handling, more engaging and more comfortable than ever before.