In a bid to push its premium, upmarket positioning into the compact crossover segment as well, Mazda Philippines brings in the 2020 CX-5. Headlining the changes is the availability of a new trim: the CX-5 FWD Sport that has almost all the premium features of the two all-wheel drive variants without the heavy price tag.
“We are pleased to launch an all-new variant in the Mazda CX-5 range which will allow consumers to enjoy the model’s premium features at a more affordable price,” shares Steven Tan, president and CEO of Mazda Philippines. He adds, “Since its introduction in 2012, the Mazda CX-5 has been our third bestselling model with close to 5,600 units sold so far. We believe that by introducing more top-of-the-line features in front-wheel drive trim, we can provide a more luxurious and premium driving experience for an even wider market.”
Aesthetically, the 2020 CX-5 remains unchanged outside. However, a closer look reveals that all variants, barring the base 2.0-liter Pro variant, get Mazda’s adaptive front lighting system which automatically adjusts the headlight beam based on the steering angle. All FWD variants continue with 225/65R17 wheels and tires, while the AWD variant gets larger 225/55R19 wheels and tires along with an electric glass sunroof.
The engine is likewise unchanged for 2020. The FWD variants get a direct-injected 2.0-liter gasoline engine with 156 horsepower and 200Nm of torque. Meanwhile, the 2.5-liter continues with a normally aspirated 2.5-liter gasoline engine with 190 horsepower and 252Nm of torque. All engines are mated to a 6-speed automatic with cruise control. Underneath, the 2020 Mazda CX-5 Skyactiv-G lineup features enhancements in its suspension that are designed to deliver an even more supple ride.
Meanwhile, the interior also boasts of new design elements that elevate the premium feel of the cabin. Like the 2.5-liter AWD Sport variant, the 2.0-liter FWD Sport also features a new 7-inch TFT reconfigurable instrument cluster display that provides needed vehicle information as preferred by the driver. Also new for 2020 are the updated air conditioning system controls that are now similar to the latest Mazda6 and all-new Mazda3’s layout. The Mazda Connect infotainment system now comes with Apple Car Play and Android Auto smartphone mirroring across the 2020 Skyactiv-G range while the 2.0-liter FWD Sport now also features a 10-speaker Bose Premium Sound System, similar to what is standard in the AWD Sport gas and diesel variants.
New black leather seats with orange trim in the AWD and FWD Sport enhance the luxury feel of both variants. Moreover, the FWD Sport features a two-memory setting for the driver, putting it at par with its all-wheel drive equipped siblings in terms of convenience features. And for the first time in a 2.0-liter Mazda CX-5, the power tailgate now comes standard with the FWD Sport.
On the safety front, both 2020 Mazda CX-5 AWD and FWD Sport variants are equipped with 360-degree view cameras. They also both come standard with front and rear parking sensors to aid in maneuvering in tight spaces. Along with standard Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert systems, customers who prefer either an AWD or an FWD Mazda CX-5 will now be able to experience a heightened level of safety and comfort with every drive.
For model year 2020, the Mazda CX-5 will be made available with the following prices: P1,730,000 (2.0-liter FWD Pro), P1,890,000 (2.0-liter FWD Sport), P1,990,000 (2.5-liter AWD Sport).
The 2.2-liter AWD Sport Diesel will remain a 2019 model for now. While the price remains at P2,230,000, discounts of up to P80,000 are on offer (while supplies last). The refreshed diesel variant is expected to arrive sometime next year.