MY20 Mazda CX-5 released

The off-road upgrade is a newly developed ‘Off-Road Traction Assist’ function. Added to all CX-5 AWD models, this claims to deliver greater rough road driving potential, with a higher level of control for the driver.

Engaged at the push of a button, Off-Road Traction Assist brings the AWD and traction control systems together to electronically lock the rear differential in the same way true four-wheel drive vehicles operate. The technology also monitors traction to automatically distribute the right amount of torque to the tyres that have the most grip, thus maximising traction in slippery conditions, suppressing wheel spin on loose surfaces and also helping to extricate the vehicle when stuck.

As with MY19 versions, the 2020 GT, Touring and Akera CX-5 model grades are exclusively AWD, but AWD is available on the lower Maxx and Maxx Sport grades, too.

On Maxx Sport, Touring, GT and Akera grades, paddle shifters for the auto transmission are now standard, while Skyactiv-G 2.5 petrol-engined CX-5s have added a Cylinder Deactivation display to MZD Connect, allowing the driver to see when the engine shuts down cylinders to conserve fuel.

Safety tech has been enhanced range-wide, with Mazda’s Smart City Brake Support AEB tech adding night-time pedestrian protection, while the entry-level Maxx grade gets a larger 8.0-inch centre console screen.

NVH has been improved thanks to new headliner material that reduces cabin noise when moving from a smooth to a rough road surface, while all petrol-powered CX-5s now feature a steering vibration countermeasure to reduce transfer of road vibrations through the steering wheel.

CX-5s with the Skyactiv-G 2.5T turbo petrol engine go a step further with the adoption of a quieter exhaust system and sturdier spare tyre pan.

Aesthetic changes include new-look badging, a new key fob design and the addition of Polymetal Grey Metallic to the paint chart.

With the upgrades comes new pricing, but the increases are $200 or less. CX-5 pricing now starts at $30,980 for the 2.0 manual FWD Maxx, with CX-5 AWD pricing starting at $35,980 for the 2.5 auto Maxx. The Akera remains the top of the CX-5 tree, priced from $48,330 for the 2.5, $50,830 for the 2.5 turbo and $51,330 for the 2.2 turbo diesel.

Mazda’s five-year unlimited kilometre warranty and five-year Mazda Premium Roadside Assistance is standard across the 2020 CX-5 range. See your Mazda dealer for details.