The Mazda CX-5 2022 remained one of Britain’s most complete mid-size SUVs, offering premium design, engaging handling, and rock-solid reliability without a luxury badge price tag. The 2022 update refined its suspension, styling, and safety systems — cementing its reputation as a benchmark for family crossovers in the UK.
Key Points
- 2.0 and 2.5 Skyactiv-G petrol or 2.2 Skyactiv-D diesel engines
- Front- or all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations
- 0–62 mph in 9.0 seconds (2.5 AWD)
- WLTP economy up to 50 mpg (diesel)
- 522-litre boot, 5-star Euro NCAP safety
- UK prices from £28,000
A Mature Evolution of Mazda’s Best Seller
The 2022 facelift didn’t reinvent the CX-5 — it made it better in all the right ways. Mazda revised the suspension tuning for smoother ride comfort, added new seat frames for better support, and upgraded the cabin insulation for quieter motorway driving.
According to Mazda UK, the CX-5 “continues to deliver premium quality, engaging performance, and advanced technology — all without compromise.”
It competes directly with the Toyota RAV4, Volkswagen Tiguan, and Honda CR-V, yet stands out for its driver-focused feel and refined simplicity.
Exterior Design
The CX-5 retains Mazda’s elegant Kodo design philosophy — long bonnet, muscular arches, and a powerful stance. The 2022 version introduces a reshaped front grille, new LED lights, and fresh alloy designs across the range.
A subtle Soul Red Crystal or Polymetal Grey finish highlights its sculpted surfaces beautifully.
| Dimension | CX-5 | VW Tiguan | Toyota RAV4 |
| Length | 4,575 mm | 4,509 mm | 4,600 mm |
| Width | 1,845 mm | 1,839 mm | 1,855 mm |
| Boot | 522 L | 520 L | 580 L |
The tailgate remains power-operated on most trims, while ground clearance of 190 mm makes it suitable for light off-road use.
Interior and Comfort
The cabin feels genuinely premium for the price. Mazda improved seat cushioning and road noise suppression for 2022, while the 10.25-inch Mazda Connect screen (controlled via rotary dial) became standard across the range.
Key comfort and tech features include:
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Dual-zone climate control
- Heated front seats (from Sport trim)
- 7-inch digital driver display
- Optional 10-speaker Bose audio system
Material quality rivals that of entry-level premium SUVs. Stitching and soft-touch materials cover nearly every surface, and visibility is excellent thanks to a low dashboard and wide mirrors.
For similar cabin-focused crossovers, check the Skoda Scala 2020 review or the 20 Best SUVs to Buy in 2025 Under £40k for benchmark comparisons in comfort and practicality.
Powertrains and Performance
Mazda kept its line-up refreshingly straightforward: two petrols and one diesel.
| Engine | Power | Transmission | Drive | 0–62 mph | Economy (WLTP) |
| 2.0 Skyactiv-G | 165 hp | 6-speed manual | FWD | 10.3 s | 41 mpg |
| 2.5 Skyactiv-G | 194 hp | 6-speed auto | AWD | 9.0 s | 35 mpg |
| 2.2 Skyactiv-D | 150–184 hp | Manual/Auto | FWD / AWD | 9.1–9.9 s | 45–50 mpg |
The petrols use naturally aspirated engines for smooth, linear response — a rarity in this segment. The 2.5 AWD feels strong and relaxed, while the diesel remains ideal for long-distance drivers thanks to excellent torque and economy.
All engines are Euro 6d-compliant, ensuring ULEZ exemption and compatibility with the latest UK emissions standards.
Driving Experience
From my point of view, the CX-5 is one of the most satisfying SUVs to drive on British roads. Steering is accurate and well-weighted, suspension damping is superb, and the body stays composed even over rough surfaces.
Mazda engineers tuned the chassis with a concept they call Jinba Ittai — “horse and rider as one.” The result is an SUV that feels intuitive, agile, and predictable, even on narrow country lanes.
The 2.0 petrol is relaxed but benefits from revs, while the 2.5 and diesel deliver strong mid-range pull. Ride comfort has improved noticeably compared to earlier models, especially at motorway speeds.
For drivers who care about handling and engagement, the CX-5 feels closer to a sporty saloon than a typical crossover.
Efficiency and Ownership Costs
The diesel version returns around 48–50 mpg in mixed UK driving, while petrol models average between 35 and 42 mpg.
Maintenance intervals are every 12,500 miles or 12 months, and reliability remains one of Mazda’s strengths — the CX-5 regularly ranks near the top of UK owner satisfaction surveys.
Insurance groups range from group 15 to 25, and road tax varies by CO₂ output. To check your car’s bracket, refer to the Vehicle Tax Rates section on GOV.UK.
Comfort and Practicality
The CX-5 seats five comfortably, with generous legroom and a 40:20:40 split-fold rear bench. The 522-litre boot is wide and square, ideal for pushchairs or luggage, and expands to 1,620 litres with seats folded.
Cabin ergonomics are simple and driver-centred — large knobs for climate control, physical buttons for volume, and a crystal-clear digital display. The optional head-up display projects speed and navigation directly onto the windscreen.
UK Trims and Prices
| Trim | Highlights | Price (OTR) |
| SE-L | LED lights, 17” alloys, adaptive cruise | £28,000 |
| Newground | Contrasting exterior, suede trim | £29,500 |
| Sport | Heated seats, reversing cam, Bose audio | £31,000 |
| GT Sport | Leather, 19” alloys, AWD | £33,500 |
| Homura | Black pack styling, red stitching | £34,000 |
The Homura trim, new for 2022, adds sporty detailing and red interior accents, giving the CX-5 a more dynamic appearance.
Safety and Reliability
The CX-5 retains its five-star Euro NCAP rating thanks to robust build quality and advanced i-Activsense systems:
- Adaptive cruise and lane-keeping assist
- Front Smart Brake Support (autonomous braking)
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Driver attention alert
Thatcham Research lists it among the safest mid-size SUVs tested, with particularly strong side-impact protection.
Reliability is excellent — few reports of mechanical issues and high parts availability across the UK network.
FAQs
Is the Mazda CX-5 2022 available in the UK?
Yes, with petrol and diesel options, both FWD and AWD.
Is it ULEZ compliant?
Yes, all engines meet Euro 6d standards.
What’s the real-world fuel economy?
Around 38–42 mpg (petrol) or 48–50 mpg (diesel).
Is it a good long-distance car?
Absolutely — refined, comfortable, and quiet at motorway speeds.
How big is the boot?
522 litres, expanding to over 1,600 litres when folded.
Is it reliable?
Yes, one of the most dependable SUVs in its class.
Conclusion
The Mazda CX-5 2022 remains one of the most complete mid-size SUVs money can buy in the UK. It drives beautifully, feels premium inside, and undercuts rivals like the Tiguan and RAV4 on price.
From my point of view, it’s the rare SUV that combines practicality, reliability, and driver engagement in equal measure — a car that’s genuinely enjoyable whether you’re commuting through London traffic or cruising along Scottish A-roads.
