By Malusi Msomi

The Mazda CX-5 has been around for a while now, yet it continues to hold its own in one of South Africa’s most competitive segments.

With newer rivals arriving almost every year, the CX-5’s recipe remains refreshingly simple: attractive styling, a premium-feeling cabin, and a driving experience that prioritises comfort and refinement. The Carbon Edition adds a few visual enhancements to keep things fresh, but does this long-serving SUV still make sense in 2026?

A familiar face with a darker edge

At first glance, there’s no mistaking the CX-5. The overall shape remains familiar, but the Carbon Edition adds black alloy wheels and dark exterior trim, giving it a slightly more purposeful appearance than the standard range.

While some rivals have adopted increasingly aggressive styling, Mazda’s design has aged remarkably well. It’s clean, elegant, and still one of the better-looking SUVs in its class.

A cabin that continues to impress

Step inside and you’ll find one of the CX-5’s strongest attributes. Mazda has always had a knack for building interiors that feel more expensive than their price tags suggest, and the Carbon Edition is no exception. The layout is clean, the materials feel upmarket, and everything is logically positioned.

Equipment levels are generous too. Standard features include a 10.25-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Bose sound system, dual-zone climate control, leather seats with red stitching, and a multifunction steering wheel.

Unlike some newer rivals that have gone all-in on touch-sensitive controls, the CX-5 remains intuitive and easy to use, which is something we continue to appreciate.

Old-school motivation

Power comes from a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre petrol engine producing 121kW and 213Nm, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

In a market increasingly dominated by small turbocharged engines, the CX-5 feels refreshingly old school. Power delivery is smooth and predictable, although it does require a few more revs than some turbocharged competitors to get moving.

The six-speed automatic remains one of the better conventional automatics in the segment, delivering smooth shifts and a relaxed driving experience.

Fuel consumption during our test averaged 7.8L/100km, slightly higher than Mazda’s claimed figure of 6.9L/100km.

We also found ourselves missing the old 2.2-litre diesel engine that Mazda once offered. It delivered excellent fuel economy and felt particularly well suited to long-distance driving.

Why it still works

The CX-5’s biggest strength is how complete the overall package feels.

It remains comfortable, practical, refined, and easy to live with. Rear-seat space is good, the boot is generous enough for family duties, and the ride quality strikes a nice balance between comfort and composure.

While newer competitors may offer more screens, bigger claims, or additional technology, the Mazda counters with a level of polish that many still struggle to match.

Final word

The Mazda CX-5 2.0 Carbon Edition is a reminder that a good product doesn’t necessarily need reinventing.

It may not be the newest SUV in the segment, but it continues to deliver where it matters most. The Carbon Edition adds a welcome touch of visual flair, while the cabin, driving experience, and overall usability remain as appealing as ever.

We still find ourselves missing Mazda’s old 2.2-litre diesel, particularly for its excellent fuel economy, but the naturally aspirated petrol engine remains smooth and easy to live with.

At R688,400, the CX-5 2.0 Carbon Edition continues to present a compelling package. If you’re looking for a midsize family SUV that prioritises quality, comfort, and everyday usability over flashy gimmicks, it remains well worth considering.