2023 Mazda CX-5 Preview: Redesign, Release Date, Price, Hybrid, Interior

It’s no secret that Mazda is currently working on a completely new lineup of vehicles, which will include some completely new technologies, including a completely new RWD platform, inline-six engine etc. However, these novelties won’t come that soon and if we can trust the latest reports, the current generation will remain in production for some more time. Most likely, the 2023 Mazda CX-5 will represent the final production year of the generation, which means that there won’t be changed, at least not significant ones.

So, we count on the same layout, which still has a lot of great things to offer, despite the age. The current generation still offers one of the nicest cabins in the segment, as well as the most engaging handling in the segment. Furthermore, the optional turbo-four engine offers pretty impressive dynamics, while the fuel economy is pretty impressive too.

As there are no changes to come, we presume that the launch date will be scheduled for the last quarter of 2022.

2023 Mazda CX-5 Design

As we’ve just mentioned, the 2023 Mazda CX-5 will most likely represent the final production year of the generation. Therefore, we presume that there will be no changes, at least when it comes to more notable things, starting from mechanics. The current generation offers a great ride quality, characterized by pretty engaging handling. This SUV offers more athleticism than pretty much any other model in the class but at the same time, the ride isn’t too firm either.

When it comes to the styling, there is really nothing we could change on this model. The current version already looks pretty impressive and surprisingly fresh. The combination of sleek profile and Mazda’s famous KODO design philosophy makes this compact crossover look more attractive than most rivals, even though it’s been around for a while.

Interior

Things are equally impressive from the inside. This crossover features one of the nicest cabins in the class. The dashboard features a simplistic design and looks very elegant. Also, the materials are pretty impressive, while the build quality is as impressive.

The front seats are massive and supportive and we particularly like the driving position, even though rearward visibility could be better. On the other hand, the second row isn’t that impressive. It features less room than rivals like Hyundai Tucson or VW Tiguan, and we are not sure if taller passengers can accommodate here comfortably.

The cargo area is another weak point of the current model. You may count on about 31 cubic feet behind the second row and 60 cubic feet of the total cargo volume. That’s way below average for the segment.

Features

Considering that we are talking about the final production year, things probably won’t change in this aspect. Most of the features, standard and optional, should remain the same as in the current model. So, base versions should come standard with goodies like a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Mazda Connected Services, a Wi-Fi hot spot, Bluetooth, two USB ports, a four-speaker stereo, and HD Radio. Additionally, you can get goodies like two rear USB ports, a six-speaker stereo, a 10-speaker Bose sound system, satellite radio, navigation, dual-zone automatic climate control, proximity keyless entry, a moonroof, a universal garage door opener, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster display, and ambient interior lighting.

The same thing goes for safety features. All models will come standard with goodies like adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, automatic high beams, rain-sensing windshield wipers etc.

2023 Mazda CX-5 Engines

Things under the hood won’t’ change either. So, you may count on two familiar powertrain options, both equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. The base model comes with a naturally-aspirated version of the engine, which puts out around 187 horsepower. That’s okay for daily commuting, though you may feel a little bit of struggle on the highway. That’s why the turbocharged version of the engine would be our pick. It features a max output of 250 horsepower and ensures pretty impressive driving dynamics for the class.

Both engines come in pair with a 6-speed automatic transmission, which does a decent job. The base engine returns around 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, which is good for the segment. Of course, the turbo-four is notably thirstier and you may count on 23 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.