The KF-generation Mazda CX-5 is an SUV that truly proves you can have your cake and eat it too. Practical, efficient and packing Mazda’s trademark Jinba Ittai driving experience, the stylish KF CX-5 is an SUV that perfectly complements your family’s needs, while still being able to put a smile on your face on a twisty back road.

Succeeding the successful KE-generation CX-5, the KF CX-5 highlights the sensual Kodo Design language, more efficient powertrains, and vastly improved build quality and safety equipment.

A few years on, KF CX-5 units trade for roughly the price of a new Honda HR-V. However, though vastly more attainable now, are the maintenance costs going to be too high? As is commonly known for Mazda vehicles. Let’s take a closer look.

The (KF) Mazda CX-5 range in Malaysia

Launched at the tail end of 2017, the KF CX-5 was initially made available in five variants across three powertrain options. There were two SkyActiv-G naturally-aspirated four-cylinder mills in 2.0-litre and 2.5-litre guises, producing 164 PS and 210 Nm and 194 PS and 257 Nm respectively, as well as an oil-burning 2.2-litre SkyActiv-D turbodiesel developing 175 PS and 420 Nm.

Also read: Used Toyota C-HR - From RM 100k, can you get more style than this? How much to maintain and repair

In all variants, power was sent to a SkyActiv-Drive 6-speed automatic. At the outset, there were four 2WD variants and a sole 2.2D AWD variant at the following prices:

In terms of equipment, the base GL variants featured LED projector headlights, 17-inch wheels, dual-zone climate control (inclusive rear AC vents), and the proprietary MZD Connect infotainment system with six speakers and a seven-inch touchscreen.

Stepping up to the 2.0G GLS variant added LED DRLs, front foglamps and taillights, a 10-way powered driver seat, Adaptive Front-Lighting System (AFS), keyless entry and walk away lock as well as and leather upholstery. The GLS variant also adds selected driver aids such as autonomous emergency braking, blind spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert.

The 2.5G 2WD GLS pretty much offers the same equipment save larger 19-inch wheels. However, the range-topping 2.2D GLS diesel specifies the Mazda i-Activesense suite that comprises lane departure warning (LDW), lane keep assist (LKA) and driver attention alert.

Just two short years later, in 2019, Mazda Malaysia launched the facelifted KF CX-5. There were still five variants on offer, however, Bermaz now offered the 228 hp / 420 Nm 2.5T AWD High as the range topper, replacing the previous 2.2D AWD GLS variant. 

The biggest change of the KF CX-5's 2019 facelift was the instrument cluster, which was now similar in design to the Mazda 3, featuring revised graphics and 4.6-inch TFT LCD screen on the 2.0L variants and a larger 7.0-inch unit on the 2.5G, 2.2D and 2.5T variants. 

Elsewhere, both 2.0-litre models now featured 17-inch wheels, whilst the other models featured 19-inch wheels.

Other notable standard equipment included dual-zone automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, upgraded Mazda Connect infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and the Commander Control knob. 

The (KF) Mazda CX-5 to buy and current market prices

Used units of the KF CX-5 range from just above RM 100k for early 2017 units and rise to just under RM 120k for the newer 2018 pre-facelift units, depending on variant. Typically, the 2.0G and 2.2D GLS variants fetch the highest used market prices. 

Whereas facelift 2019 and up units typically start at approximately RM 115k entry-level 2.0 Mid variants and go up to RM 150k for the highly specified 2.0 High and handful of 2.5T AWD variants that are less than 2 years old. In most of these cases, these facelifted KF CX-5s will still benefit from their manufacturer warranties. 

Also read: Used Honda Jazz (GK) - from RM 40k, last of its line hatchback, how much to maintain and repair?

In choosing the right CX-5 for you, the 2.0 GL and corresponding 2.0 Mid variants are perfect for the budget-conscious buyer who is buying the CX-5 for its style, practicality and safety. 

Whereas, if you're the type that enjoys a spirited drive every once in a while, the 2.2D 2WD turbodiesel is the variant for you: light on its feet, beautifully balanced and offering stellar power delivery, without the voracious thirst of the 2.5T. 

For the thinking buyer, why not check out 2.5 GLS variants, which offer more power, and the complete salvo of creature comforts, but are roughly priced around the same as the 2.0 GLS variants, if you can live with the higher yearly road tax costs.

With several variants and a healthy supply of used KF CX-5s on the market, there's a high chance of finding one that's perfect for you. However, be sure to check for overall presentation, and service history to ensure there are no surprises later on. The true measure of a CX-5 is how it drives, so be sure to test drive the vehicle before buying and take a friend/mechanic who knows these models well.

Alternatively, check out these immaculate KF Mazda CX-5 examples available on Carsome. For a limited time, get up to RM 1,500 more in cash offers when you trade in your existing car for a new Carsome car. 

Also read: Buying a used Honda City (GM7) or Jazz (GP5) Hybrid - This is how you maintain one properly

Maintenance and common problems of the KF Mazda CX-5

First things first, there was a recall issued for the Mazda CX-5 here. It comprised 15,780 models manufactured between 2017-2019 that required their fuel pump modules replaced. Therefore, it goes without saying that if you’re in the market for a pre-facelift model, ensure that this box is ticked.

Also Read: Bermaz recalls 19,685 Mazda vehicles over fuel pump replacement

Otherwise, Mazda's best-selling model has a solid reputation for being reliable with prompt periodic maintenance. Additionally, since Mazda is the only car company that offers both a 5-year manufacturer warranty and free maintenance package, pretty much every CX-5 should have a complete service history with official Mazda service centres. 

With that said, most complaints from owners revolve around suspension noises that arise from wear and tear after a few years. The cause can be placed firmly on the type of rubber used in the construction of the bush not working well with Malaysian weather.

At circa 100k km, lower arm bushes are known to harden and in some cases crack, causing increased steering freeplay and roadshock, as is known also with the preceding KE CX-5 generation. Some owners also report cabin rattling/knocking noises after a few years, this is typically centred around the lower regions of the dash and sunglass compartment on the roof. 

Perhaps more worryingly are sporadic complaints of engine oil consumption in the 2.5T variant - which triggers a check light. As we know, there is no solution yet besides just topping up the oil. For now, at least, as cases are limited, we'll just count it as a cautionary measure. 

Conclusion

In a nutshell, the CX-5 is one of the best used vehicle options on the market for owners who desire a practical SUV for the family, that still manages to stir the soul courtesy of its overall flair and driving performance.

Of course, if you need to have the most space and practicality for five passengers, we would still recommend either the Honda CR-V or Nissan X-Trail, but if you can live with its proportions, trust us when we say the CX-5 is the one that will put a wider grin on your face. 

As always, take your time in looking for well presented and maintained car, or leave it to the experts at Carsome, when finding your next dream car.