Mazda CX-5 review - MPG, CO2 and running costs
SkyActiv engine tech makes the Mazda CX-5 decently economical, while insurance should be reasonably cheap
The simple engine choice for the Mazda CX-5 means that some rivals with a broader spread of powertrains are cheaper to run. SUVs such as the SEAT Ateca and Peugeot 3008 offer downsized petrol engines claiming greater efficiency, but the units in the CX-5 are more frugal than their size would suggest. That’s because of Mazda’s low-friction, low compression SkyActiv engine tech, allowing the performance of a larger engine but, when driven sensibly, the economy of something smaller.
In the pursuit of cleaner emissions Mazda has also added 24V mild-hybrid technology and cylinder deactivation across the range. The system shuts down two of the engine's four cylinders under light load, contributing to an 9g/km reduction in CO2.
Under the latest WLTP test procedure, the 2.0 e-SkyActiv G petrol is able to return up to 43.5mpg (combined) with the manual gearbox, and 40.9mpg for the six-speed auto-equipped version, although higher spec cars on bigger wheels and with more kit will deliver poorer figures. The 2.5-litre car delivers up to 37.2mpg on the combined cycle.
The SkyActiv-D diesel also delivers different figures depending on the car's spec. Both the 148bhp (no longer available from new) and 181bhp manual versions manage a best combined figure of 50.4mpg, while adding the auto box sees this reduce to 46.3mpg. Adding all-wheel drive means the figures drop to 44.8mpg for the manual, and 42.8mpg for the auto.
Emissions for the CX-5 see the petrol car ranging from 146-171g/km, while the diesels sit between 147-173g/km. However, rivals such as the Peugeot 3008, Skoda Karoq and hybrid-equipped Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 are less polluting.
Insurance Groups
The stronger, safer CX-5 looks to be competitive in terms of insurance costs. The petrol is the cheapest, starting at group 15, which puts it on par with a 148bhp petrol Karoq. The CX-5 diesels slot into group 18 to 24, depending on which variant you choose.
You can get personalised car insurance quotes fast with our comparison tool powered by Quotezone...
Depreciation
The Mazda CX-5 has residual values in the region of 50 per cent for petrol versions, with diesel variants a little behind on 47 per cent - all of which means it should perform slightly stronger on the used market than a Peugeot 3008 or Skoda Karoq.
To get an accurate valuation on a specific model check out our valuation tool...
Which Is Best
