Here are some of the highlights of the CX 5 that makes it a serious proposition in the medium SUV market; On the Individual and Akera models, new-generation LED headlamps and gunmetal 19-inch alloy wheels are introduced. The MZD Connect infotainment system is a simple to operate system that allows easy access to internet radio streaming and social networking services that drivers consider essential. The electronic parking brake, which replaces the conventional handbrake, is a new feature. Satellite navigation is standard on the Individual and Akera models and optional on Active and Dynamic models.

 

The Mazda CX-5 is the first Mazda model in South Africa to adopt the Adaptive LED Headlights (ALH) on the Individual and Akera models, a new-generation headlamp system which implements LED array glare-free high beam technology. With an LED array, the LED light source for the high beams is divided into four blocks which can be switched on and off independently. The system uses a camera to detect the headlamps of oncoming vehicles or the taillights of cars ahead, and turns off only the light-source block which is illuminating in the specific direction of the other vehicles. This makes it possible to drive with the high beams on at all times, significantly improving visibility when driving at night, without dazzling drivers of other vehicles.

 

ALH also features wide-distribution low beams. By adding an LED light source to the side of the headlamps, wide-distribution low beams expand the area of illumination on either side of the vehicle, illuminating areas where traditional headlamps cannot. This makes it easier to see pedestrians and other obstacles at intersections at night. In addition, ALH utilizes the motor of the headlamps' auto-levelling mechanism to automatically raise the axis of lighting when travelling at highway speeds, making it easier to see road signs and obstacles as early as possible.

 

The model line-up continues with the 2.0-litre and a 2.5-litre petrol engines as well as two versions of the 2.2-litre twin-turbo diesel engine. In both manual and automatic transmissions, SKYACTIV body and chassis to deliver precise responsiveness coupled with efficient engine performance.

 

The 2.0 litre 4-cylinder petrol engine has received improvement on the power and torque to deliver a sporty 121kW of power and 210Nm of torque, using only 6.4 litres of fuel every 100km. Muscular 2.5 litre petrol engine punches out 141kW and 256Nm, yet uses just 7.4 litres of fuel per 100km.

The lower powered 2.2 litre 4-cylinder diesel engine produces 110kW of power and 380Nm of torque, while the higher powered 2.2 litre 4-cylinder diesel engine produces 129kW of power and a muscular 420Nm of torque; both using just 5.7 litres of fuel per 100km. With a two-stage turbocharger maximising power and efficiency, the SKYACTIV-D engine is able to meet strict Euro stage IV emissions standards without the need for expensive after-treatment of exhaust gasses.

 

The 2015 Mazda CX-5 keeps the highest safety standards on your side. A new safety measure sees the addition of the Lane Keep Assist (LKA) on the Individual and Akera models which assists by adding a slight amount of torque to steer the vehicle back into the lane.

 

Designed to protect, the CX-5’s rigid body integrates a multi-load path structure to redirect crash energy away from the occupant cell. It has six built-in SRS airbags, including front, side (front) and curtain (front and rear). Safety features include Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) incorporating Traction Control System (TCS) as standard, ABS and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) which optimises braking force according to vehicle load and Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) boosting stopping power at just the right time. In addition, the Mazda CX-5 stands guard with remote control locking and an engine immobiliser.

 

Mazda 2015 CX-5 Model line-up

 

2.0L Active FWD Manual MY15 -

    2.0 Petrol (121kW @ 210Nm)

    Auto headlights

    17” Alloys

    Dual Zone Aircon

    7 Inch display-MZD connect system

    Bluetooth hands free

    Radio / CD / Aux / USB

    Cruise control

    40:20:40 folding rear seats

    ISOFix

    Hill Launch Assist

    Front fog lights

    Push-button keyless start

    6 speakers

    Privacy glass

    Cloth seats

    Audio controls on steering wheel

    Electronic parking brake

    Rain sensing wipers

    Reverse camera

 

2.0L Dynamic FWD Manual MY15 -

    2.0 Petrol (121kW @ 210Nm)

    Smart advanced keyless entry

    19” Alloys

 

2.2L DE Active FWD Automatic MY15 -

    2.2 Diesel (110kW @ 380Nm)

    17” Alloys

    Without reverse camera

 

2.5L Individual FWD Automatic MY15 -

    2.5 Petrol (141kW @ 256Nm)

    Power sliding and tilt sunroof

    Driver seat 8-way power adjustable

    High Beam Control

    Power lumber support - Driver

    BOSE with 9 speakers

    Parking Sensors front and rear

    LED adaptive headlights

    Rear-view mirror with auto dimming

    Blind Spot Monitoring

    Satellite navigation

    Leather seats

 

2.2L DE Akera AWD Automatic MY15 -

    2.2 Diesel (129kW @ 420Nm)

    AWD (ALL Wheel Drive)

 

The 2015 Mazda CX-5 is backed up by a 3-year unlimited kilometre factory warranty and a 3-year roadside assistance, a 3-year service plan and a 5-year Corrosion Warranty are also included.

 

The All-New Mazda CX-3 compact SUV, like the CX-5 also offers the same design, quality and style thanks to the KODO – Soul of Motion design language. It also adopts the full suite of SKYACTIV Technologies and has been carefully crafted to match human sensibilities in order to deliver performance that can be enjoyed without reservation. Its size and packaging aim to make it easy to use in a wide variety of situations.

 

The CX-3 have a stylish interior as well as dynamic performance and sporty handling. Mazda went back to the drawing board, looked at what essential values people seek in a car, and produced a brand new vehicle aimed to create the standard for a new era. With a combination of Mazda's latest technology and design, maximised fuel efficiency and the latest active safety and connectivity technology; the compact cross-over is a successful combination of engineering, design and a flexible driver oriented approach. As with the CX-5 it is fun to drive, is sure footed and can easily cope with  short trips as well as extended road trips where the occupants are safe and comfortable. “TheCX-3 is a vehicle that suits the diverse lifestyles of today’s customers in any scene, from inner-city driving to enjoying the great outdoors - enabling customers to express their unique individuality. We believe the Mazda CX-3 will do well in the Southern Africa market”, comments Mr David Hughes, Managing Director of Mazda Southern Africa.

 

The All-New Mazda CX-3 is designed and built to the highest standard of performance and reliability. This standard is backed up by a 3-year unlimited kilometre factory warranty. To provide complete peace of mind motoring, a 3-year roadside assistance, a 3-year service plan and a 5-year Corrosion Warranty are also included.

 

Model line-up

 

All-New MazdaCX-3 2.0L Active Manual -

Auto 2.0L –

Max power 115 kW @6000 rpm

Max torque  204 N/m @ 2800 rpm

    6 speed Manual/Auto Transmission

    4 speakers

    Bluetooth

    Alarm system

    Cruise control

    Halogen headlights

    Hill Launch Assist

    Manual Air-conditioning

    Power fold mirrors

    R16" alloy wheels

    Seat Lifter (driver)

    Seat material (Cloth)

    Segment radio display

    i-STOP (on Auto model)

    Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)- On Auto model

 

All-New MazdaCX-3 2.0L DynamicManual -

Auto 2.0L –

6 Speakers

 Auto headlights- On/Off

 Climate Control Air-conditioning

 Front fog lamp

 Leather steering wheel, gear, handbrake

 i-STOP

Mazda connect with commander

Parking sensors (Rear)

Rain sensing wipers

Sunglass holder

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)- On Auto model

 

 

All-New MazdaCX-3 2.0L Individual Auto

    7 Speakers

    Bose sound system

    Head up display (HUD)

    Leather & cloth seat combination

    LED headlights

    Integrated Navigation

    Power sliding and tilt glass sunroof

    Rear camera

    R18" alloy wheels

    Privacy glass (rear side & back)

 

Summary;

Although I enjoyed the Mazda CX-5 more as it suited my lifestyle better, both the CX-5 and the CX-3 is great SUV’s that is not only, practical, loaded with cool stuff but is also well manufactured, fuel efficient and just great fun to drive and to enjoy.