Buying a used Mazda CX-5
If you’re looking for a car that falls neatly between the SUV and crossover-SUV category, the Mazda CX-5 may be the one for you. Introduced by Japanese manufacturer Mazda in 2012, this model is one of the brands best selling cars across the globe. Read our guide on buying a used Mazda CX-5, what’s available, what to look out for and the best way to buy one with SPOTiCAR.
What models are available?
One of the best family SUVs on the market, the Mazda CX-5 is spacious, practical and stylish. With two generations, the first in 2012 and the second from 2017 onwards, sales have been steady and it provides buyers with an affordable alternative to its rivals. The CX-5 doesn’t have electric or hybrid engines yet, but there are various petrol and diesel options to suit your needs.
- 2.0L Skyactiv-G 165hp: The standard non-turbocharged petrol engine in two-wheel drive. It comes as six-speed manual or automatic.
- 2.5L Skyactiv-G 187hp: Only available in GT Sport spec (with a sport driving mode) this non-turbocharged petrol engine only comes as an automatic. It’s louder but reactive and highly efficient with reduced fuel consumption technology.
- 2.5L Skyactiv-G 250hp: This is the turbocharged petrol version which comes with a unique 4-3-1 exhaust to improve efficiency.
- 2.2L Skyactiv-D 150hp: This diesel engine is front-wheel drive and comes in manual or automatic.
- 2.2L Skyactiv-D 184hp: Choose from front or four-wheel drive and manual or automatic with this higher horsepower diesel engine.
The 2022 Mazda CX-5 has five different trim levels with varying specifications.
- SE-L: The entry level trim still has all basics you’d expect from a family SUV like 17” alloys, air conditioning, DAB radio with 6 speakers and an integrated Mazda navigation and multimedia system. The SE-L safety features include cruise control, lane assist and smart braking.
- Newground: The main differences with the Newground are the 19” alloys, heated seats and plush interiors with leatherette trim, suede inserts and silver accents throughout.
- Sport Edition: With the same 19” Black diamond cut alloys as the Newground, the sport model adds a reverse parking aid camera, a leather-wrapped heated steering wheels and a head-up display.
- Sport Black Edition: Equipped with the same features as the Sport Edition, this trim has exclusive Gloss Black bumpers, wheels arches and nature wing plus a red accent on the front grille.
- GT Sport: Finally, the most luxurious trim level has ventilated front seats as well as heated, exclusive interior and exterior colourways as well as a driver attention alert, adaptive headlights, 360-degree parking aid camera, power liftgate and advanced smart braking.
Which Mazda CX-5 should you choose?
If you’re looking for a good value used Mazda CX-5, the basic SE-L trim with a 2.0L petrol engine will still offer you great standard equipment, decent driveability, good safety features and plenty of space. The 2.5L petrol engines are ideal for those looking for more power but they can be noisy and don’t perform as well at low revs. Sport Editions, complete with the sport driving mode, are the most fun with speedy gear changes while the diesel engines give drivers the best fuel economy.
What should you look out for in a used Mazda CX-5?
Mazda has a relatively strong reliability record but it’s still important to service a Mazda CX-5 every 12 months or 12,500 miles. There’s only been one official recall of the second generation CX-5, but here’s what you should look out for:
- Soot build-up: This was the issue that caused the official recall which should not be fixed on all Mazda CX-5 models. When you find a used model, speak to the retailer to double check.
- Oil dilution: Some diesel engines have suffered with oil dilution, but the issue is rare and many have been fixed in a software update.
- Ignition coil: If the engine light is on or flashing, it might be a faulty ignition coil. This should be picked up during the retailer servicing, but you can double check on a test drive.
- Led daytime lights: Although daytime lights failing isn’t a huge issue, it can be costly to fix. Inspect beforehand and ideally negotiate with the retailer to fix it before you purchase.
SPOTiCAR part exchange programme
Does it sound like the Mazda CX-5 is the model for you? If so, make the most of our part exchange programme to sell your current vehicle. Enter some details and your registration to get a free estimate in a matter of clicks and if the price meets your expectations, you can book in with our retailers to discuss the next steps. Easily find a retailer closer to you to get started. They will also be able to discuss finance options for the Mazda CX-5.
