2019 Mazda CX-5 CKD Launched In Malaysia - Five Variants, New 2.5 ...

After being previewed earlier in the month, the updated Mazda CX-5 range has finally been launched in Malaysia, with five variants available on sale. The line-up starts with the entry-level 2.0 2WD Mid (RM137k), 2.0 2WD High (RM154k), 2.5 2WD High (RM164k), 2.2D 2WD High (RM169k), and 2.5 4WD High (RM178k) – all models are locally assembled at the Inokom plant in Kulim, Kedah.

First, let’s get the juicy bits out of the way. The top-of-the-line 2.5 litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine produces 228 hp at 5,000 rpm and 420 Nm at 2,000 rpm, and it’s mated to a six-speed SkyActiv-Drive automatic transmission with i-Activ all-wheel drive system as standard.

The blown 2.5 litre mill is the most potent unit of the bunch, making 40 hp more than the CX-5 SkyActiv-D’s 2.2 litre turbodiesel engine (outputs 178 hp, 450 Nm), although torque is lower by 30 Nm. Do note that the diesel engine is only available as a 2WD model – the previous 2.2D GLS AWD option has officially been dropped from the range.

In terms of fuel economy, the 2.5 litre turbo petrol has an average fuel consumption of 8.2 litres per 100 km, whereas the 2.5 GLS 2WD with its naturally-aspirated petrol engine is more fuel efficient at 7.3 litres per 100 km. The 2WD diesel is the most frugal of the lot, consuming just 5.5 litres of fuel per 100 km.

The most affordable pair – 2.0 GL and 2.0 GLS – is powered by the same 2.0 litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine, producing 162 hp at 6,000 rpm and 213 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. The average fuel consumption is 6.9 litres per 100 km. All variants utilise the same six-speed automatic transmission and benefit from Mazda’s i-Stop idling and G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC Plus) systems as standard.

For equipment, all variants get automatic LED headlights, LED combination tail lights, LED fog lamps and LED daytime running lights. However, the base 2.0 GL gets bulb-type DRLs and loses features such as keyless entry, powered tailgate, and front parking sensors. Both 2.0 models sit on 17-inch alloys with 225/65 profile rubbers, while the rest ride on 19-inch items with 225/55 Toyo Proxes rubbers.

In the cabin, the biggest difference is the fitment of a new instrument cluster, much like that seen on the new Mazda 3. The gauge’s graphics are slightly different, but in the middle rests a 4.6-inch TFT LCD screen (2.0L models only), while a larger seven-inch unit is fitted on the 2.5 and 2.2D models. Another revision is the climate control layout (dual-zone automatic system is standard, comes with centre air vents).

All models except for the 2.0 GL gets a 360-degree around view camera as standard, while the top two models are the only ones with the new Active Driving Display, which is a relatively crisp windscreen-projected heads-up display.

Otherwise, all models get electronic parking brake with brake hold, multi-function steering wheel, Mazda Connect infotainment system comprising a seven-inch touchscreen with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Commander Control, and six speakers. Electric powered front seats (10-way driver with memory function, six-way passenger) is available from the 2.0 GLS onwards, including leather upholstery and metal/faux wood trim – the 2.0 GL gets gunmetal trim.

In terms of safety, it’s pretty much identical for all variants. The kit list includes six airbags (front, side and curtain), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (TCS), ABS, EBD, Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), Hill Launch Assist (HLA) and Isofix child seat anchors.

Additional features such as Adaptive Front-Lighting System (AFS), Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) and Smart City Brake Support Forward (SCBS F) are available from the 2.0 GLS onwards, though the 2.5 GLS 2WD gains Driver Attention Alert (DAA) and Smart City Brake Support Reverse (SCBS R), which is Mazda speak for autonomous emergency braking (AEB).

Items like Adaptive LED Headlights (ALH), Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) and Lane-Keep Assist System (LAS) are available on the 2.2D GLS AWD and 2.5 Turbo GLS AWD, although Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC) isn’t available on any models as yet.

Lastly, all models come with a five-year or 100,000 km warranty programme with free maintenance package, and customers get to choose from eight exterior colours – Deep Crystal Blue, Sonic Silver, Meteor Grey, Jet Black, Arctic White, Soul Red Crystal, Machine Grey, and Snowflake White Pearl. Do keep in mind that the last three colours are considered premium paint, which cost an additional RM3,000 each, if you fancy.

Available accessories include Skytint safety window film which costs RM1,900, as well as the illuminated sill plates for RM310 (for four pieces). Those opting for the base CX-5 can also upgrade from the fabric seats to leather upholstery for RM2,900, and the GPS navigation system costs an extra RM1,270.

GALLERY: 2019 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo GLS AWD in Soul Red Crystal

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