2022 Mazda CX-5 Revealed With Standard AWD And Refreshed Styling

Following a set of leaked photos a few days ago, Mazda unveiled the facelifted 2022 CX-5.

The mid-life facelift brings fresh design features, more differentiation between the trim levels, chassis improvements, more ADAS systems, and standard i-Activ AWD across the range. The latter becomes a standard feature for all CX models in the US market, starting from the 2022 MY.

Mazda kept the exterior changes of the new CX-5 subtle but noticeable. The redesigned front bumper features a three-dimensional grille underlined by a chrome-finished wing that also connects the new LED headlights, while a wider and lower intake allows the omission of the side inlets. At the back, changes are limited to the thinner LED taillights and a new design for the bumper. Mazda also added the Zircon Sand exterior paint option to the color palette together with a new range of wheel designs.

Each of the available trim levels comes with its own visual touches for both the exterior and the interior.

New Trim Levels

Mazda has refreshed the trim structure of the 2022 CX-5, replacing the Grand Touring Reserve trim with the new 2.5 Turbo, while the range-topping trim is now called 2.5 Turbo Signature. The new 2.5 Turbo model comes with gloss-black exterior trim to differentiate itself from the non-turbo models, while the cabin gets red accents and contrast stitching.

The new range-topping 2.5 Turbo Signature trim adds body-colored cladding contrasted by bright silver wheels, while the cabin gets Nappa leather upholstery and genuine woodgrain trim.

In Europe, the range of the 2022 Mazda CX-5 includes the entry-level Newground, Homura, and High+ trim levels. Entry-level models come with aluminum-style skidplates, black machine-cut 19-inch alloy wheels, and lime green accents on the grille matching the green stitching on the suede upholstery inside the cabin. This grade also comes with a water-resistant side of the reversible loadspace floorboard, which is ideal for storing wet or dirty items.

The mid-spec Homura has a more premium glossy black finish on the grille, bumpers, wheel arches, door garnishes, and door mirrors combined with a black metallic finish on the 19-inch alloy wheels. Again, the red accents on the grille are matching with the red stitching on the black leather upholstery inside.

Finally, the flagship High+ trim level is further distinguished by the body-colored plastics on the bumpers/fenders/side sills combined with bright silver 19-inch alloy wheels. Inside we find Nappa leather and genuine woodgrain texture on the door cards and the dashboard.

Modern Tech For A Modern Cabin

Interior updates on all trim levels include the redesigned seats, the wireless Qi phone charging tray in the center console, and the Mazda intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) allowing the driver to choose between driving modes including a new Off-Road mode. The 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen remains unchanged since it was recently updated. Safety equipment has been improved with additional i-Activsense systems including the Cruising & Traffic Support (CTS).

Besides the visual tweaks, Mazda engineers have also updated the bodyshell, chassis, suspension, and seats, while ride comfort has been enhanced and road noise has been “greatly reduced, particularly when driving on rough surfaces”. The six-speed automatic transmission is now also more responsive.

Also: Hyundai Tucson, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, And Nissan Rogue: Which Is The Best Compact SUV?

As we mentioned earlier, the i-Active AWD system is now standard across the range for the US market. Mazda didn’t announce any changes on the engine range which means the CX-5 will be fitted with the naturally aspirated Skyactiv-G 2.5 producing 187 hp (139 kW / 190 PS) and 186 lb-ft (252 Nm) of torque, and the more powerful Skyactiv-G 2.5 Turbo producing 250 hp (186 kW / 254 PS) and 320 lb-ft (434 Nm) of torque.

More details for the 2022 Mazda CX-5 range will be announced this autumn together with the pricing. The updated model is expected in the US market this winter. Despite the facelift which will keep the second-generation CX-5 in the market for a few more years, the Japanese carmaker is already working on the third-generation model which will be based on a new RWD platform, fitted with Mazda’s upcoming inline-six engine.