Mazda CX-5 Turbo CKD looks good on the outside but dated on the inside – Ratings

The Mazda CX-5 is locally-assembled (CKD) at Mazda Malaysia’s manufacturing plant in Kulim. The Malaysia-assembled SUV is also exported to neighbouring countries like Thailand, Indonesia and the Philippines.

We examined how well built the CX-5 is and look at the features available on the Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo.

Build quality is superb as expected from the Mazda brand and it is proudly assembled by Malaysians.

Our test unit wears the Soul Red Crystal metallic paint and despite having a low average paint thickness of 88.9 μm, every panel has a consistent finish of between 87 to 95 μm.

There is virtually no difference in panel gaps and even if there are discrepancies, it’s only a mere 0.5 mm difference. The CX-5 Turbo is the most well put together car we’ve tested on WapCar.

Part of the reason why the CX-5 Turbo is so well insulated is due to the generous use of soundproofing material on the engine bonnet and front fenders. The side windows are all of double-glazed construction to further suppress exterior noise.

The cabin is furnished with high-quality soft-touch materials at all the important touchpoints. Feature-wise, the CX-5 Turbo is decently equipped with the 7.0-inch MZD touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, powered front seats, 360-degree camera and windscreen projected heads-up display.

However, it lacks premium convenience features such as powered sunroof and premium audio sound system available on other class rivals.

The CX-5 Turbo is also only equipped with Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS) such as autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist and lane departure warning. It does not come with adaptive cruise control like some of its class rivals.

Having experienced the new-generation Mazda 3’s interior, the cabin of the CX-5 Turbo does feel a tad bit dated. The Mazda 3 has a much tidier layout and slicker infotainment screen.

Nevertheless, the Mazda CX-5 Turbo is a very well-built and decently equipped SUV. Coupled with the performance of the 2.5-litre turbo engine, it’s asking price of RM 181,770 (OTR without insurance) is justifiable.

2019 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Ratings:

2019 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Driving Performance and Comfort

2019 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Quality and Features

2019 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Full Review