Introduction: The Arrival of the Game-Changing 2013 Mazda CX-5
The 2013 Mazda CX-5 marked a significant turning point in the compact SUV segment. Arriving as the latest member of the Zoom-Zoom family, it was the first vehicle to fully embody Mazda’s groundbreaking SKYACTIV® technology suite. This all-new compact crossover SUV immediately captured attention by offering something rarely seen before: best-in-class highway fuel economy for SUVs in North America, achieving an impressive 35 miles per gallon (mpg). This wasn’t just about economy; the 2013 Cx 5 2013 Mazda also delivered class-leading overall fuel efficiency against its direct competitors, proving that practicality and driving pleasure could coexist.
Jim O’Sullivan, then president and CEO of Mazda North American Operations (MNAO), aptly described the cx 5 2013 mazda as “the vehicle compact SUV shoppers have been asking for – that only Mazda can build.” Entering a rapidly growing and fiercely competitive market, the cx 5 2013 mazda distinguished itself beyond mere aesthetics and features. It brought to the table the performance and dynamic driving experience that had become synonymous with the Mazda brand. The innovative SKYACTIV technology at its core allowed the cx 5 2013 mazda to demonstrate that efficiency doesn’t necessitate sacrificing driving enjoyment, and that a compact size doesn’t mean compromising on essential qualities.
The automotive industry quickly recognized the impact of the cx 5 2013 mazda. It garnered prestigious accolades such as the 2012 Drivers’ Choice Award for “Best Small Utility Vehicle” from MotorWeek and the “2012 Crossover of the Year” from Autobytel.com, solidifying its position as a leader in its class from the outset. The cx 5 2013 mazda wasn’t just another entry into the crowded SUV market; it was a statement of intent, showcasing Mazda’s commitment to innovation and driver-centric design.
SKYACTIV Technology: The Core of the 2013 CX-5’s Innovation
At the heart of the cx 5 2013 mazda‘s revolutionary appeal lies SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY. This wasn’t merely a collection of new components, but a comprehensive philosophy driving Mazda’s “Sustainable Zoom-Zoom” strategy. SKYACTIV was conceived to achieve holistic vehicle efficiency, perfectly harmonizing the Mazda ethos of driver engagement with the demands for improved environmental performance. It’s crucial to understand that SKYACTIV isn’t just a new engine or transmission; it’s a ground-up re-engineering of the entire vehicle, encompassing the engine, transmission, body, and chassis. This integrated approach sets it apart from incremental improvements often touted as “all-new.”
The cx 5 2013 mazda was the first global vehicle to fully embrace all facets of SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY. This clean-slate design aimed to answer the evolving needs of drivers: more space, greater utility, enhanced handling, improved safety, increased performance, and, crucially, better fuel economy. SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY became the bedrock of Mazda’s next-generation vehicles, and the cx 5 2013 mazda served as the flagship, demonstrating the tangible benefits of this pioneering approach to automotive engineering.
Engine and Performance: Efficient Power with the SKYACTIV-G
Powering the cx 5 2013 mazda is the SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter gasoline engine, a testament to Mazda’s engineering prowess. The development goal for the SKYACTIV-G engine was to achieve more with less – more power and torque from a lighter, more efficient design. A key innovation is its exceptionally high compression ratio of 13:1, the highest in the world for a mass-produced car at the time. This high compression, combined with a newly designed 4-2-1 exhaust system and optimized pistons, overcame the traditional challenges associated with high compression engines, such as knocking and the need for premium fuel. The result is an engine that is 10 percent lighter than Mazda’s previous MZR 2.0-liter gasoline engine, yet delivers increased torque, better fuel economy, and reduced emissions.
The SKYACTIV-G engine in the cx 5 2013 mazda produces 155 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 150 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm, with a redline of 6,500 rpm. Coupled with a lightweight body, starting at just 3,208 pounds for front-wheel-drive (FWD) models with the SKYACTIV-MT manual transmission, the cx 5 2013 mazda is among the lightest in its segment. Buyers had a choice of transmissions: the engaging SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual or the smooth SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic. An optional all-new all-wheel-drive (AWD) system further enhanced its versatility, and with a 2,000-pound towing capacity, the cx 5 2013 mazda truly offered a comprehensive package for a wide range of drivers.
Transmissions: Manual and Automatic Refinement
Mazda’s commitment to driving enjoyment is evident even in the transmission options for the cx 5 2013 mazda. The SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual transmission, standard in Sport models, was engineered to bring the crisp, precise shifting feel of the iconic Mazda MX-5 Miata to the compact SUV segment. This wasn’t just a standard manual transmission; it was meticulously refined with a shorter shift-lever stroke, a down-type system utilizing gravity for easier upshifts, lock ball-type synchronizers for smooth gear changes, and a shift load canceller for lighter lever action. The SKYACTIV-MT is also lighter than its predecessor by approximately 4.4 pounds, further contributing to overall vehicle efficiency.
For those preferring an automatic, the SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission in the cx 5 2013 mazda was equally innovative. It uniquely combined the advantages of three transmission types: conventional automatic, Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), and Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT). At lower speeds, it operates like a traditional torque-converter automatic, providing smooth and easy speed control. At higher speeds (above 5-8 mph), the torque converter locks, and the transmission shifts to a dual-clutch-like operation, delivering fast shifts, minimal power interruption, and rev-matched downshifts. The SKYACTIV-Drive is also more compact and lighter, improving fuel efficiency by an estimated four to seven percent compared to conventional automatics. Adding to the driver-centric experience, the SKYACTIV-Drive offers a full manual mode with gear selection via the console-mounted lever, mimicking the operation of race cars. Remarkably, both SKYACTIV-MT and SKYACTIV-Drive were designed concurrently and are built on a shared assembly line – a unique production efficiency for Mazda.
Fuel Economy: Leading the Compact SUV Class
The cx 5 2013 mazda truly shone in fuel economy, boasting the best highway MPG of any SUV in North America at its release. EPA estimates for FWD models reached 35 mpg on the highway, while AWD models achieved 31 mpg. Specifically, FWD models with the SKYACTIV-MT were EPA-rated at 26 city/35 highway/29 combined mpg. FWD models with the SKYACTIV-Drive automatic achieved 26 city/32 highway/29 combined mpg. AWD models, equipped standard with SKYACTIV-Drive, were rated at 25 city/31 highway/28 combined mpg. Notably, the combined city and highway fuel economy of 29 mpg for FWD and 28 mpg for AWD models were also best-in-class when compared to non-hybrid competitors, underscoring the cx 5 2013 mazda‘s leadership in fuel efficiency within its segment.
Safety and Handling: Engineered for Peace of Mind
Safety was paramount in the design of the cx 5 2013 mazda. The SKYACTIV-Body and SKYACTIV-Chassis were engineered to create a vehicle structure that is not only robust and impact-absorbing but also refined and quiet. The cx 5 2013 mazda was designed to inspire driver confidence through precise and predictable handling. Steering and braking controls were calibrated for linear response, reacting proportionally to driver inputs – a hallmark of Mazda’s Zoom-Zoom philosophy, fostering a sense of oneness between car and driver.
The SKYACTIV-Chassis featured a lightweight construction and incorporated a front strut suspension and multi-link rear suspension, along with numerous design refinements. Every component was scrutinized to maximize efficiency, minimize weight, and ensure optimal driver engagement. The SKYACTIV-Body utilized 61 percent high-tensile steel, resulting in a lighter yet stronger body structure with enhanced handling. The overall body structure was eight percent lighter than previous Mazda models. The cx 5 2013 mazda also made history as the first vehicle to utilize 1,800MPa ultra-high tensile steel in its construction, specifically in the front and rear bumper beams, which were 20 percent stronger and 10.6 pounds lighter than previous designs. Standard safety features included six airbags, four-wheel disc brakes, ABS, DSC, TCS, and TPMS. Available advanced safety technologies included Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) with auto-leveling bi-xenon headlamps, and a rearview camera.
Exterior Styling: KODO – Soul of Motion Design
The exterior design of the cx 5 2013 mazda was a striking embodiment of Mazda’s KODO – “Soul of Motion” design language. This philosophy, inspired by the dynamism and beauty found in nature, aimed to capture both power and elegance in a single form. The cx 5 2013 mazda‘s front fascia was dominated by a new five-point “signature wing” grille with a black trapezoidal pattern, lending a masculine depth. Sharp, wraparound headlamps extended outwards, creating a visually engaging front profile.
The sculpted body of the cx 5 2013 mazda featured taut, compact lines. Pronounced front and rear fenders emphasized its sporty stance, hugging the 17- and 19-inch wheel options. Seventeen-inch aluminum alloy wheels with 225/65R17 Yokohama all-season tires were standard on Sport and Touring models, while Grand Touring models featured 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels with 225/55R19 Toyo® A23 all-season tires. A sweeping character line flowed across the sides, and a sharp crease originating at the A-pillar and wrapping around to the stylized tail lamps added further visual interest. The raked A-pillar and fastback C-pillar design contributed to an aggressive profile while also providing occupants with a wide field of view. Beyond aesthetics, the exterior design was optimized for airflow, achieving a low drag coefficient of 0.33, contributing to the cx 5 2013 mazda‘s exceptional aerodynamic performance and fuel efficiency. A rear spoiler with side fins further enhanced aerodynamics and complemented the vehicle’s sporty stance.
Interior Design and Features: Comfort and Functionality
The interior of the cx 5 2013 mazda was designed to be both inviting and functional, creating a driver-focused cockpit with intuitive controls within easy reach. The cabin prioritized comfort and refinement, with black as the base color scheme, offering options for sculpted, body-embracing seats in two colors and a choice of cloth or genuine leather upholstery. The black-on-black layout conveyed a sense of sporty luxury, while the sand-on-black option provided a more vibrant contrast. Soft-touch materials were used extensively on door trims and the upper dash panel, complemented by piano black accents and satin chrome finishes for a premium feel. The instrument cluster featured optimized meter lighting for clear visibility in all conditions. The three-spoke steering wheel included tilt and telescopic adjustment and integrated audio and cruise controls as standard.
The cx 5 2013 mazda offered a segment-leading 106.3-inch wheelbase, providing ample space for five occupants and flexible cargo configurations. Rear cargo space was generous and cleverly designed with 40/20/40-split rear seats – a segment exclusive offering fold-flat independent seats with single-action releases. Rear passengers enjoyed ample legroom (39.3 inches) and knee clearance (2.6 inches), along with spacious headroom (39.0 inches). Front occupants also benefited from generous headroom, shoulder room, and legroom. Six- or eight-way power-adjustable seats were standard on all but the Sport model. An all-new 5.8-inch in-dash touch screen served as the infotainment hub, offering intuitive access to phone, audio, and navigation functions. Steering wheel controls further streamlined infotainment operation. Standard features included push-button start, with an optional advanced keyless entry system available. Available connectivity features included Bluetooth phone and audio, iPod playback, USB and auxiliary jack connections, and an optional nine-speaker Bose Centerpoint Surround Sound System with AudioPilot. A TomTom technology-based in-dash navigation system was also offered, featuring premium maps, lane guidance, voice recognition, and real-time traffic updates.
Trim Levels and Purchasing Power: Value Across the Range
Mazda aimed to make the cx 5 2013 mazda accessible to a wide range of buyers, offering a competitive starting price. The base CX-5 Sport started at a compelling $20,695 MSRP, significantly lower than segment leaders, making it an exceptional value proposition. Even the entry-level Sport model was well-equipped with standard features like 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, daytime running lights, power side mirrors, automatic headlights, body-colored rear spoiler, shark-fin antenna, and power features. The interior included cloth seats, push-button start, power windows, cruise control, tilt and telescopic steering column, steering-wheel-mounted controls, air conditioning, and a four-speaker audio system with USB and auxiliary inputs.
Touring models added features like fog lamps, privacy glass, upgraded cloth seats, a six-way power driver’s seat, rearview camera, upgraded six-speaker audio, leather-wrapped steering wheel, Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), and rear-seat armrest. Grand Touring models further elevated the luxury with 19-inch wheels, automatic headlights, heated mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, moonroof, leather seats, heated front seats, eight-way power driver’s seat, dual-zone climate control, Bose sound system, and Sirius Satellite Radio. Optional packages like the Moonroof/Bose Package and Technology Package (including navigation, bi-xenon headlights, and more) allowed buyers to further customize their cx 5 2013 mazda. A trailer hitch option was available across all trims, allowing owners to utilize the vehicle’s 2,000-pound towing capacity.
Conclusion: The 2013 Mazda CX-5 – A Smart Choice in Compact SUVs
The 2013 cx 5 2013 mazda emerged as a game-changer in the compact SUV segment by seamlessly blending efficiency, driving enjoyment, safety, and stylish design into a compelling package. Its innovative SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY delivered on the promise of enhanced fuel economy and performance without compromise. With its well-appointed interior, available advanced features, and competitive pricing across trim levels, the cx 5 2013 mazda presented a smart and rewarding choice for consumers seeking a versatile and engaging compact SUV. It redefined expectations and set a new benchmark for the class, proving that practicality and driving passion could indeed go hand-in-hand.
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