2022 Mazda CX-5 Turbo Review: Is It Worth the Premium?
Zircon Sand Stunner: First Impressions
The moment the 2022 Mazda CX-5 Turbo arrives in its exclusive Zircon Sand hue, its presence commands attention. Beyond aesthetics, functional upgrades immediately stand out. Body cladding wraps around the lower sections, complemented by chrome window accents and 19-inch alloy wheels borrowed from the CX-9. A redesigned blacked-out grille houses advanced sensors beneath the prominent Mazda badge, while LED headlights eliminate the need for fog lamps. Crucially, Mazda’s door design extends downward, shielding pants from mud during rainy seasons—a thoughtful touch demonstrating user-centric engineering. The 195mm ground clearance ensures confident road presence.
Interior Refinement & Practicality
Step inside, and the CX-5 Turbo reveals its cabin upgrades. CX-9-inspired Nappa leather seats in deep red offer premium comfort, with ventilated front seats proving exceptionally effective. Space shines for four adults, though the center tunnel makes a fifth passenger uncomfortable. Rear doors open wide for easy access, while legroom and headroom impress even taller occupants. Practicality extends to cargo:
- 430+ liters of trunk space easily accommodates bulky items
- 40/20/40 split-folding seats expand capacity to 1,300+ liters
- Underfloor storage keeps valuables hidden
Tech includes a 10-speaker Bose system and wireless Apple CarPlay, though the infotainment system lags behind Mazda’s latest interfaces. Wired Android Auto and piano-black trim that attracts fingerprints remain drawbacks.
Turbo Power: Performance Transformed
Mazda’s boldest move was transplanting the CX-9’s 2.5L turbocharged engine into the lighter CX-5. Outputs jump to 227 horsepower and 434 Nm of torque, routed through a 6-speed automatic transmission with newly added paddle shifters. This transforms driving dynamics:
| Driving Condition | Experience |
|---|---|
| City Traffic | Smooth, linear power delivery; minimal surge |
| Highway/Overtaking | Immediate torque response; effortless acceleration |
| Spirited Driving | 0-100 km/h in 7.7 seconds; engaging handling |
Fuel Efficiency & Real-World Drive
Despite the power boost, fuel efficiency remains competitive:
- City driving: ~8 km/L (mixed stop-and-go)
- Highway cruising: ~15.5 km/L
NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) improvements are significant. Strategic undercarriage materials and acoustic insulation create a serene cabin, even over rough roads. The all-wheel-drive system provides confident grip without intrusive behavior, while the suspension balances comfort and cornering agility. As noted in the test drive, the CX-5 Turbo delivers genuine "smiles per liter" by making mundane drives thrilling.
Premium Price, Premium Value?
Priced at ₱2.38 million, the CX-5 Turbo is the most expensive non-luxury compact SUV in its segment. However, it justifies this with:
- Segment-leading power outperforming rivals like Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4
- Premium materials (Nappa leather, soft-touch surfaces) elevating cabin feel
- Driver-focused dynamics that prioritize engagement over utility
- Exclusive features like ventilated seats and Zircon Sand paint
Key drawbacks include the aging infotainment system and limited rear charging ports. Yet when weighed against the driving experience and upscale ambiance, these feel like compromises rather than dealbreakers.
The Verdict: Who Should Buy It?
After thorough analysis, the CX-5 Turbo isn’t for everyone—but it excels for specific buyers:
- Drivers prioritizing engagement over pure practicality
- Families of four seeking style and comfort
- Those valuing exclusivity without luxury brand premiums
Is it worth the price? For driving enthusiasts wanting a practical yet thrilling SUV, absolutely. The turbo engine transforms the CX-5 into a segment standout, justifying its premium with unmatched performance and refinement. While cheaper alternatives exist, none deliver this blend of excitement and everyday usability.
Ready to test the CX-5 Turbo’s "smiles per liter"? Book a test drive and experience its turbo surge firsthand—then share which feature convinced you in the comments below.
