Mazda CX-5 2025 – Australia’s Favourite Mid-Size SUV Gets an Update

The Mazda CX-5 has been a household name in Australia for over a decade, earning its reputation as one of the most stylish, practical, and well-balanced mid-size SUVs on the market. With the 2025 update, Mazda hasn’t reinvented the wheel but has carefully refined the formula that has made the CX-5 such a best-seller. The result is an SUV that feels fresh, premium, and perfectly tailored to modern Australian lifestyles.

This long-form review dives into everything you need to know about the 2025 Mazda CX-5 — from exterior tweaks and new interior comforts to safety technology, performance updates, and where it stands in an increasingly competitive SUV segment.

The CX-5’s Legacy in Australia

Since its introduction in 2012, the Mazda CX-5 has consistently ranked among the top-selling SUVs in Australia. For years, it has gone head-to-head with rivals like the Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, and Subaru Forester. Despite fierce competition, the CX-5 has stood out for its blend of stylish design, driver-focused dynamics, and Mazda’s signature upmarket feel at an accessible price point.

In 2025, Mazda has doubled down on these strengths. While it doesn’t introduce a brand-new generation, the facelift ensures the CX-5 remains competitive in a market where Australians are spoilt for choice.

Exterior Design – Subtle Yet Premium Tweaks

Mazda has always positioned its CX-5 as the more stylish choice in the segment, and the 2025 update sharpens that appeal. The brand’s Kodo design philosophy continues to shine, with flowing lines and a bold stance that give the CX-5 a sporty yet elegant look.

Key exterior updates for 2025 include:

• Revised front grille with a more three-dimensional mesh pattern.

• Slimmer LED headlights and taillights for a sharper visual signature.

• New alloy wheel designs, ranging from 17-inch to 20-inch options on higher trims.

• A refreshed colour palette, including Mazda’s signature Soul Red Crystal and a new metallic grey option.

While the changes are evolutionary rather than revolutionary, they give the CX-5 a more contemporary presence, ensuring it doesn’t feel dated against newer rivals like the Honda CR-V 2025 or Nissan X-Trail.

Interior – Comfort, Practicality, and Premium Touches

Step inside the 2025 Mazda CX-5, and you’ll immediately notice Mazda’s ongoing commitment to quality. The interior feels closer to what you’d expect in a luxury SUV than a mainstream one. Soft-touch materials, refined switchgear, and ergonomic design set it apart from many competitors.

Cabin Updates for 2025:

• Larger infotainment system: Now featuring a 12.3-inch display on higher trims with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

• Improved seats with better cushioning for long drives, available in cloth, leatherette, or premium Nappa leather.

• Noise insulation upgrades reduce cabin noise, making the drive more serene.

• Wireless phone charging and additional USB-C ports for passengers.

In terms of space, the CX-5 remains a five-seater, unlike some rivals that offer optional third rows. This focus allows Mazda to maximise comfort for all passengers and maintain a generous 442-litre boot, expanding to 1,340 litres with the rear seats folded flat.

Technology & Infotainment

Mazda has been steadily catching up to tech-heavy rivals, and the 2025 CX-5 makes further strides.

• Mazda Connect system is more responsive, with intuitive menus.

• Head-up display projects navigation, speed, and safety alerts directly onto the windscreen.

• Bose premium audio (available on higher trims) delivers impressive sound quality.

• Mazda Connected Services introduces app-based remote features, such as remote locking, vehicle health monitoring, and even pre-conditioning for climate control.

For Australian families, these tech upgrades make the CX-5 not just a mode of transport but a connected lifestyle companion.

Safety Features – Stronger Than Ever

Mazda has built a reputation for prioritising safety, and the 2025 CX-5 strengthens that further. Standard across all trims is Mazda’s i-Activsense suite, which includes:

• Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go

• Lane Keep Assist and Lane Departure Warning

• Blind Spot Monitoring

• Rear Cross Traffic Alert

• Autonomous Emergency Braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection

• Traffic Sign Recognition

Higher trims add 360-degree cameras and front cross-traffic alert for improved urban safety. The CX-5 is expected to maintain its 5-star ANCAP safety rating, making it a trusted choice for families across Australia.

Performance & Engine Options

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 continues with its familiar but refined engine lineup, catering to different driving preferences.

• 2.0-litre petrol (FWD) – Best suited for urban commuting, efficient but less powerful.

• 2.5-litre petrol (AWD) – A sweet spot offering strong performance for highways and hills.

• 2.5-litre turbo petrol (AWD) – Packs extra punch with over 170kW, appealing to those who enjoy spirited driving.

• 2.2-litre diesel (AWD) – Ideal for long-distance touring with excellent fuel economy and torque.

Mazda hasn’t yet introduced a full hybrid version of the CX-5 in Australia, though mild-hybrid technology is expected to roll out later in 2025. With rivals like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid dominating sales, this is an area Mazda will likely address soon.

Driving Dynamics – Still the Driver’s SUV

One reason Australians continue to love the CX-5 is its driving feel. While many mid-size SUVs prioritise comfort at the expense of engagement, Mazda engineers have ensured the CX-5 retains sharp steering, composed handling, and a sense of connection to the road.

Updates for 2025 include:

• Refined suspension tuning for a smoother ride without losing agility.

• Improved G-Vectoring Control Plus, which subtly adjusts engine torque during cornering for stability.

Whether you’re weaving through city streets or cruising on a country highway, the CX-5 feels reassuringly capable.

Fuel Efficiency & Ownership Costs

Fuel efficiency remains competitive across the lineup:

• 2.0L petrol – ~7.0L/100km

• 2.5L petrol – ~7.5–8.0L/100km

• 2.5L turbo – ~8.5–9.0L/100km

• 2.2L diesel – ~5.5–6.0L/100km

Ownership costs are reasonable, with Mazda’s capped-price servicing offering transparency. Service intervals are every 12 months or 15,000km, whichever comes first. Insurance premiums remain mid-range for the segment, making the CX-5 accessible for families.

CX-5 vs The Competition

How does the 2025 CX-5 stack up against its rivals?

• Toyota RAV4: Offers hybrid efficiency but lacks the CX-5’s premium interior feel.

• Hyundai Tucson: High-tech, stylish, but ride quality not as refined.

• Kia Sportage: Great warranty (7 years) but styling polarises.

• Subaru Forester: Strong practicality, AWD standard, but less engaging to drive.

Mazda’s balance of style, driving dynamics, and quality keeps it firmly in contention as one of the best all-rounders in 2025.

Trim Levels & Pricing Expectations in Australia

While final 2025 pricing will vary by dealership, the CX-5 is expected to maintain a familiar lineup:

• Maxx – Entry-level, practical and affordable.

• Maxx Sport – Adds more tech and comfort features.

• Touring – Mid-range sweet spot with strong value.

• GT SP – Sportier styling with premium features.

• Akera – The flagship, offering luxury touches and full tech suite.

Pricing is expected to start from around $36,000 AUD and climb to $55,000+ AUD for the fully loaded Akera.

Why Australians Still Love the CX-5

The Mazda CX-5’s enduring popularity boils down to balance. It’s stylish without being flashy, practical without being boring, safe without being overbearing, and engaging without sacrificing comfort. In 2025, these qualities remain intact while small updates ensure it doesn’t fall behind competitors.

Final Verdict – A Smart Buy in 2025

For Australians seeking a mid-size SUV that blends everyday practicality with a touch of driving pleasure, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 remains one of the best options on the market. While some may lament the lack of a full hybrid, the updates across design, tech, and refinement ensure the CX-5 continues to set benchmarks in its class.

Whether you’re a growing family, a professional who values style, or a driver who enjoys the occasional spirited run, the CX-5 2025 ticks nearly every box. Its position as Australia’s favourite mid-size SUV looks secure for yet another year.