Mazda CX-5, Sport Driving Engine Character

Honestly, it's hard to find an equal match that deserves to be used as a benchmark for the Mazda CX-5 in Indonesia. Looking at its dimensions, this medium crossover should compete with other 5-passenger SUVs such as the Kia Sportage and the Hyundai Tucson. But both in Indonesia are only sold in a choice of 2.0 liter engine capacity only. While the CX-5 is now only sold in a choice of 2.5 liter engine.

If you look for a comparison that is sold at a similar price range, the CX-5 meets the Honda CR-V and Nissan X-Trail. The difference is, the two SUVs above provide seven seats. Even then, the Honda CR-V now uses a turbo engine with a capacity of 1.5 liters left. Although the 2.0 liter engined variant is still on sale. Almost all parts of this second generation have changed. Except in the engine sector which is still the same as the previous model, which is still using an engine with a 2.5L capacity.

The latest CX-5 have only undergone revisions or improvements to the control software. This revision resulted in an increase in output by 3PS to 190PS at 6,000 rpm. Likewise with torque, it also increased by 1 Nm to 251 Nm at the same rpm. So, Mazda optimizes the old engine with a greater output but still saves fuel.

Be the Nissan X-Trail as the most appropriate benchmark for the CX-5. Of particular note, the X-Trail has a superior passenger capacity. At least the X-Trail price still hits the CX-5 price range and most importantly, there is a 2.5 liter engine variant.

Compared to the Nissan X-Trail 2.5 alone, the CX-5's performance is far superior. His Skyactiv-G engine, produces 190 PS at 6,000 rpm with a peak torque of 251 Nm at 3,250 rpm. Compare this to the X-Trail 2.5 which has a power of 171 PS at 6,000 rpm with a peak torque of 233 Nm at 4,000 rpm. Of course, the CX-5's performance is superior to other competitors with smaller engines. The CX-5 can be proud to be the car with the best performance in its class.

Not to mention that the engine output is channeled instantly via a dexterous 6-speed automatic transmission. Unlike most of its competitors who have begun to switch to CVT (Continuous Variable Transmission). CVT type transmissions tend to be more moderate in conveying power from the engine to the wheels. On the positive side, the power distribution of the CVT transmission is softer, which adds to the comfort of the passengers. Amazingly Mazda, even though it's not a CVT, the gearshift of its 6-speed automatic transmission does not interfere with the comfort of the cabin occupants.

The selection of this non-CVT automatic transmission makes power always available whenever needed. Because the automatic transmission will always choose the gear position that suits your needs. When you want to overtake the vehicle in front, just step on the gas pedal deeper and the gear position will automatically drop, the engine speed will jump up and provide enough power to maneuver.

Of course, this power distribution is in stark contrast to the Nissan X-Trail or Honda CR-V turbo though. In both cars, there is still a slight lag before the expected power appears. These advantages make the CX-5 still retain its sporty driving character as before. It is true that the superior performance of the CX-5 is not only limited to paper.

It needs to be highlighted when its competitors start following the downsizing trend. Honda installed a turbo on the CR-V and nissan implanted an electric motor on the X-Trail to improve fuel efficiency. Mazda Indonesia actually removed the 2.0 liter engine option for the latest generation CX-5.

Then what is the feeling of driving the latest generation CX-5? The early generation CX-5 was the first car Mazda developed with the Skyactiv concept as a whole. The goal, for a sense of pleasure while driving. Mazda has indeed succeeded in making the first generation CX-5 a medium crossover with the most sporty driving feel at that time.

Even though the sales were positive, not a few complained about the suspension that was too hard and the character of the frame structure that was too stiff. This clearly reduces driving comfort. Even though this car was born for use in urban areas, not a race track.

Mazda engineers turned their brains as they developed the second generation of the CX-5. As a result, this car has a feeling of driving that is far different from its predecessor. The suspension damping is now very soft like a luxury SUV from Europe. The sport character can still be felt a little because of the minimal signs of swaying around corners. This suit is the most fitting compromise that Mazda can make for CX-5 consumers.

Comments