The updated 2022 Mazda CX-5 is now on sale in Australia, carrying higher prices in return for a raft of upgrades to the popular mid-size SUV.
First seen overseas in September last year, the new-look Mazda CX-5 range now kicks off from $32,190 plus on-road costs for the Maxx 2.0-litre petrol (with manual transmission), marking an entry price increase of $800.
Similar price hikes apply across the range, although the flagship Akera diesel now starts at $53,680 plus ORCs – up $1100.
In exchange for the extra outlay, 2022 Mazda CX-5 buyers will be treated to redesigned seats, LED headlights and tail-lights, a “refreshed” automatic transmission and small-scale chassis refinements resulting in claimed lower NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) levels.
Also new for 2022 are rugged-looking Touring Active models, which Mazda says will “appeal to adventure-seekers” through their more robust body cladding as well as the lime green grille and interior accents.
Based on the carryover Touring model grade, the Active is available with either the 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol or 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine, channelling power to all four wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission.
For reference, the smaller 2.0-litre petrol engine has been retained in the Maxx twins but they remain front-wheel drive only.
Higher up the tree and in stark contrast to the rugged Touring Active models, the flagship Akera variants (petrol, turbo-petrol and turbo-diesel) have all adopted body-coloured cladding in a bid to make them stand out as the high-end variants with the more sophisticated look complemented by ‘bright silver’ alloy wheels and a premium Nappa leather interior.
As for the rest of the range, it’s worth noting there have been a few omissions from the 2022 line-up with the Maxx 2.5L, Maxx Sport 2.2L, Touring 2.2L and all three GT models being shown the door.
These axings combined with the introduction of the Active Touring twins takes the 2022 variant count to 12 (versus 16 last model year) in preparation for the slightly bigger Mazda CX-60’s arrival later in the year.
According to Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi, the streamlined new line-up will better serve customer demand “for self-expression”.
“Versatility is synonymous with Mazda CX-5, and this update bolsters that quality; more uniquely defined grades grow the potential for customers to find their perfect fit within the range, selecting the vehicle that best suits their style and lifestyle,” he said.
“It’s a significant update for Mazda CX-5, which remains an Aussie favourite and a mainstay in the Mazda line-up … with vehicle supply returning to pre-pandemic levels, Mazda is well placed to meet customer demand.”
How much does the 2022 Mazda CX-5 cost?
Maxx 2.0L (m) – $32,190
Maxx 2.0L (a) – $34,190
Maxx Sport 2.5L (a) – $37,990
Maxx Sport 2.5L AWD (a) – $40,490
Touring 2.5L AWD (a) – $42,380
Touring Active 2.5L AWD (a) – $42,680
Touring Active 2.2L diesel AWD (a) – $45,680
GT SP 2.5L AWD (a) – $48,790
GT SP 2.5L turbo AWD (a) – $51,290
Akera 2.5L AWD (a) – $50,680
Akera 2.5L turbo AWD (a) – $53,180
Akera 2.2L diesel AWD (a) – $53,680
* Prices exclude on-road costs