Since its debut in 2012, the Mazda CX-5 has consistently set the benchmark for the mid-size SUV segment in Australia. Now, in 2025, it continues to capture hearts with its perfect balance of style, performance, and practicality. With many new rivals entering the market, Mazda hasn’t rested on its laurels; instead, it has refined the CX-5’s formula to ensure it stays ahead.
The 2025 model brings subtle yet impactful changes—smarter technology, refined styling, improved efficiency, and an even more luxurious cabin. For Australian families, city commuters, and weekend adventurers, the CX-5 continues to tick all the right boxes.
Exterior Design – Sleek, Confident, and Timeless
Mazda’s Kodo: Soul of Motion design language has aged gracefully, and the 2025 CX-5 is no exception. The latest iteration offers a sharper front grille, reprofiled LED headlights, and new alloy wheel designs ranging from 17 to 19 inches depending on the variant.
The updated front bumper design gives it a more athletic stance, while fresh paint options such as Rhodium White and Zircon Sand add a sophisticated touch. The proportions remain perfectly balanced—long bonnet, muscular wheel arches, and a sweeping roofline—all contributing to a sporty yet elegant look.
Importantly, Mazda hasn’t sacrificed practicality for style. The rear tailgate offers wide access, and ground clearance remains at a healthy 193mm, suitable for light off-road and gravel road duties.
Interior Comfort – Premium Quality Without the Luxury Price Tag
Step inside the 2025 Mazda CX-5, and it feels closer to a premium European SUV than a mainstream Japanese model. Soft-touch materials dominate, the switchgear feels solid, and the seats—whether cloth, suede, or Nappa leather—are exceptionally supportive.
Mazda has updated the cabin with improved sound insulation, creating a quieter ride even at highway speeds. Dual-zone climate control is standard across the range, and higher trims add rear air vents, heated and ventilated front seats, and even a heated steering wheel for chilly winter mornings in southern Australia.
The 10.25-inch infotainment display offers crisp graphics, now paired with faster processing for seamless navigation and smartphone connectivity. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are wireless, and the upgraded Bose audio system in upper trims transforms long drives into a concert-like experience.
Technology & Infotainment – Smart and Intuitive
Mazda has leaned heavily into improving the CX-5’s tech offering in 2025. The infotainment system now supports over-the-air updates, ensuring your navigation maps and software remain up to date without a trip to the dealer.
Key features include:
- 10.25-inch centre display with rotary dial control for ease of use while driving.
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto standard across all trims.
- Head-up display projecting key information onto the windscreen.
- 360-degree camera system for easy parking in tight city spots.
- Connected Services app allowing remote locking, vehicle health checks, and even climate pre-conditioning.
This blend of user-friendly tech ensures the CX-5 feels modern without being overly complicated.
Performance & Driving Dynamics – Fun Meets Practicality
Mazda’s “Jinba Ittai” philosophy—driver and car as one—remains alive in the CX-5. The 2025 model offers a choice of petrol and diesel engines, both paired with a smooth 6-speed automatic transmission.
Engine options include:
- 2.0L Skyactiv-G petrol – 115kW and 200Nm, efficient for city driving.
- 2.5L Skyactiv-G petrol – 140kW and 252Nm, offering more punch for highway overtakes.
- 2.5L turbo petrol – 170kW and 420Nm, delivering near-sporty performance.
- 2.2L Skyactiv-D twin-turbo diesel – 140kW and 450Nm, ideal for long-distance touring and towing.
The G-Vectoring Control Plus system subtly adjusts engine torque to enhance cornering stability, making it one of the most engaging SUVs to drive in its class. Suspension tuning strikes a fine balance between absorbing road imperfections and delivering agile handling.
Fuel Efficiency – Balancing Performance and Economy
With rising fuel prices in Australia, efficiency is more important than ever. The 2025 CX-5’s fuel consumption figures are competitive:
- 2.0L petrol – around 6.9L/100km
- 2.5L petrol – around 7.4L/100km
- 2.5L turbo petrol – around 8.2L/100km
- 2.2L diesel – around 5.7L/100km
For those covering big distances or towing caravans, the diesel remains the smart pick, while urban drivers may find the 2.0L or 2.5L petrol engines more than sufficient.
Safety – 5-Star ANCAP Rating
Safety has long been a Mazda stronghold, and the CX-5 continues to impress. With a 5-star ANCAP rating, it comes loaded with active and passive safety systems:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian detection
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Lane-keep assist and lane departure warning
- Traffic sign recognition
In higher trims, you also get front cross-traffic alert and an improved driver monitoring system that detects fatigue.
Practicality – Space for the Family
The CX-5’s 442L boot isn’t the largest in the class, but it’s well-shaped and expands to 1,342L with the rear seats folded flat. Clever touches like a reversible boot floor and multiple tie-down points make it more versatile.
Rear passengers enjoy ample headroom and legroom, even for taller adults. Families will appreciate the ISOFIX mounts on the outboard rear seats and top-tether anchor points across all three positions.
Model Grades and Pricing in Australia (2025)
Mazda offers a wide range of CX-5 variants in 2025 to suit different budgets and needs:
- Maxx – Well-equipped entry-level model.
- Maxx Sport – Adds extra tech and style.
- Touring – More premium interior materials and features.
- GT SP – Sportier styling, more luxury touches.
- Akera – Top-of-the-line with all available features.
Pricing starts around $37,000 for the base Maxx and climbs to $58,000+ for the fully loaded Akera AWD turbo petrol.
Why It’s Still a Top Choice for Aussies
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 remains a favourite because it delivers a premium SUV experience without the luxury badge price tag. It blends:
- Engaging driving dynamics
- Premium interior finish
- Strong safety credentials
- Efficient engine choices
- Reliable resale value
Whether you’re a young family, a retiree heading on road trips, or a city dweller wanting something stylish yet practical, the CX-5 ticks every box.
Competitors – How Does It Stack Up?
The CX-5’s main rivals in Australia include:
- Toyota RAV4 – More spacious but less engaging to drive.
- Hyundai Tucson – Modern design and tech, but ride quality not as polished.
- Kia Sportage – Strong value, long warranty, slightly larger footprint.
- Subaru Forester – Excellent all-wheel drive capability, but less stylish interior.
Despite stiff competition, the CX-5’s blend of refinement, driveability, and premium feel keeps it at the top of many buyers’ lists.
Final Verdict
In a crowded SUV market, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 continues to shine as a stylish, safe, and satisfying-to-drive family SUV. It may not have the biggest boot or the lowest price, but its combination of driving enjoyment, premium quality, and long-term reliability make it one of the smartest choices for Australian buyers.
If you want an SUV that feels special every time you get behind the wheel, the Mazda CX-5 should be on your shortlist.
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