The Mazda CX-5 has long been celebrated for its captivating design and dynamic driving performance in the competitive compact crossover SUV segment. For the 2021 model year, the Mazda CX-5 elevates its appeal even further, introducing a range of enhancements designed to inspire drivers and provide an even more connected and secure driving experience. Key updates for the 2021 Mazda CX-5 include a larger, more intuitive infotainment display, advanced i-Activsense safety technologies, and the striking new Carbon Edition trim. Mazda North American Operations announced that the 2021 Mazda CX-5 is set to arrive at dealerships, bringing these exciting upgrades to consumers.
Across the 2021 CX-5 lineup, drivers will immediately notice the upgraded infotainment system, starting with the standard 10.25-inch center display. This larger screen operates with the latest generation Mazda Connect infotainment interface, offering enhanced usability and clarity. Standard Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ integration ensures seamless smartphone connectivity, while a three-year trial of Mazda Connected Services provides remote vehicle monitoring and control via the MyMazda app. Additionally, a three-month or 2GB trial of the in-car Wi-Fi hotspot allows occupants to stay connected on the go.
Complementing the advanced technology is the CX-5’s engaging driving dynamics. The naturally aspirated 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G engine continues to power the majority of models, delivering 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque using either regular or premium fuel. This engine is paired with a responsive six-speed automatic transmission featuring manual shift and sport modes, ensuring an enjoyable driving experience. While front-wheel drive is standard, Mazda’s i-Activ all-wheel drive system with off-road traction assist is available across all trim levels, providing enhanced confidence in various driving conditions. Standard G-Vectoring Control further refines handling and stability.
Safety remains a top priority for Mazda, and the 2021 CX-5 comes standard with the comprehensive i-Activsense suite of safety features. This includes Mazda Radar Cruise Control with stop and go, Advanced Smart City Brake Support with Pedestrian Detection, Smart Brake Support, Lane Departure Warning with Lane-Keep Assist, and Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. These systems work together to provide drivers with added peace of mind and confidence on the road. Further standard features enhancing convenience and comfort include a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, High Beam Control, Bluetooth connectivity, two front USB inputs, push button start, electronic parking brake, remote keyless entry, rearview camera, automatic LED headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels, rear roof spoiler, and rain-sensing wipers.
Moving up the trim levels, the CX-5 Touring introduces additional comfort and convenience features. Heated front seats, leatherette seats with Lux Suede inserts, and dual-zone automatic climate control elevate the interior ambiance. Rear seat passengers benefit from air conditioning vents, a center armrest, and two USB charging ports. Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry, rear privacy glass, a six-speaker sound system, and auto-leveling LED headlights are also included in the Touring trim.
For those seeking a more premium experience within the Touring trim, the available Touring Preferred SV Package adds significant upgrades. This package includes a Bose® 10-speaker premium audio system, leather seats, a power liftgate, a power moonroof, an auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink®, a six-way power passenger seat, and an eight-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support and memory settings.
The 2021 Mazda CX-5 also welcomes the all-new Carbon Edition, a trim designed to offer unique styling and visual appeal. Building upon the features of the CX-5 Touring with the Touring Preferred SV Package, the Carbon Edition distinguishes itself with an exclusive Polymetal Gray exterior paint, gloss black door mirrors, and striking 19-inch black metallic aluminum alloy wheels. The interior of the Carbon Edition features red leather seats and black honeycomb trim accents on the dashboard and door panels, creating a sporty and sophisticated cabin. Red stitching on the leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob further enhances the distinctive color scheme. The Carbon Edition is available with either the standard Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter engine or the optional Skyactiv-G 2.5 Turbo engine for those seeking increased performance. The CX-5 Carbon Edition Turbo is identifiable by a unique powertrain badge and delivers up to 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel.
The CX-5 Grand Touring trim level further enhances the vehicle with both interior and exterior upgrades. Building on the Touring trim, it includes the Bose® 10-speaker audio system, leather seats, power moonroof, and adds paddle shifters on the steering wheel for a more engaging driving experience. A seven-inch TFT reconfigurable digital gauge display, auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink®, and SiriusXM® satellite radio with a trial subscription are also included. Exterior enhancements for the Grand Touring include a power liftgate, LED taillights, fog lights, daytime running lights, Adaptive Front-lighting System, heated door mirrors, and 19-inch bright silver aluminum alloy wheels. The CX-5 Grand Touring is exclusively powered by the naturally aspirated Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter engine.
Stepping up to the CX-5 Grand Touring Reserve introduces the more powerful Skyactiv-G 2.5 Turbo engine as standard, along with standard i-Activ all-wheel drive and a new turbo badge. The driving experience is further enhanced with a windshield-projected Active Driving Display. Available Traffic Sign Recognition, when equipped with the optional Mazda Navigation System, adds another layer of driver assistance. Premium comfort features in the Grand Touring Reserve include ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, automatic folding door mirrors, and a windshield wiper de-icer.
At the top of the lineup, the CX-5 Signature represents the pinnacle of refinement and technology. New i-Activsense safety features, including Smart City Brake Support Reverse and Driver Attention Alert, are added, along with an upgraded 360° View Monitor with high-definition digital clarity and front and rear parking sensors. The CX-5 Signature includes the Mazda Navigation System with Traffic Sign Recognition and a SiriusXM® three-year traffic and travel link subscription. The interior of the Signature trim is appointed with Caturra Brown Nappa leather seats, genuine layered wood trim, a frameless auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink®, ambient LED interior lighting, 19-inch dark silver aluminum alloy wheels, a black headliner, and Signature trim badging, creating a truly sophisticated and luxurious environment.
The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offers a compelling combination of style, performance, technology, and safety, further solidifying its position as a leading compact crossover SUV. With its expanded features and trim levels, particularly the new Carbon Edition, the 2021 CX-5 provides a variety of options to meet the diverse needs and preferences of today’s drivers.
