By Clive Moleme

Mazda’s CX-5 has quietly become one of the most respected SUVs in South Africa, and the 2025 CX-5 2.0 Dynamic is proof of why consistency matters. While rivals have gone through radical redesigns or chased gimmicks, Mazda has refined a formula that works: stylish design, solid engineering, and premium features without the premium badge price.

Under the bonnet, the naturally aspirated 2.0-L SkyActiv-G engine produces 121kW and 213Nm of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels through a 6-speed automatic gearbox that feels tuned more for smoothness than outright urgency. This isn’t the car for drag racing, but in real-world driving it’s composed and predictable. Overtaking requires a firmer press of the throttle, yet the CX-5 rewards you with fuel consumption figures of around 7.1L/100km, which is impressive for a family SUV of this size.

On the road, the CX-5 shines with its chassis balance. Mazda has always leaned into the “Jinba Ittai” philosophy, meaning driver and machine in harmony, and it shows here. Steering is precise with just the right amount of weight, body roll is well controlled, and the suspension blends comfort with composure. This is one of those SUVs that feels reassuring on a long highway run but equally happy to be hustled along a twisty road.

Step inside, and the Dynamic trim lifts the cabin closer to entry-level premium rivals. Soft-touch materials, leather upholstery, and subtle chrome accents give a clean, elegant aesthetic. The 10.25-inch infotainment screen now runs the latest Mazda Connect interface, compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 10-speaker Bose sound system delivers excellent clarity, while dual-zone climate control and heated seats enhance comfort. Mazda’s interiors have always been about understated quality, and this one continues the theme.

Practicality is strong: rear passengers enjoy generous knee room and supportive seating, while the 438-litre boot is easily expandable via 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats. Thoughtful touches like a power tailgate and multiple USB-C ports keep it family-friendly.

Safety is comprehensive, with adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and rear cross-traffic alert all standard on the Dynamic spec. Six airbags and a 360-degree parking camera seal the deal, making the CX-5 one of the safest choices in its class.

Priced from R601,300, the CX-5 2.0 Dynamic delivers an experience that rivals often push closer to the R800k mark. Mazda’s 3-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty and service plan provide further peace of mind.

Our final thoughts are that the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.0 Dynamic is not about flashy upgrades; it’s about doing everything right, year after year. Stylish, safe, comfortable, and engaging to drive, it proves why the CX-5 remains one of the most compelling family SUVs in South Africa.