Looking for a family SUV that doesn’t compromise on driving enjoyment? The Mazda CX-5 has been winning over Australian families since 2012, and there’s good reason why it consistently ranks among the country’s best-selling medium SUVs. A firm favourite with families across Australia, Mazda’s CX-5 blended all the practical benefits of a mid-size SUV with the driving dynamics of a much more lithe and low-riding car.
What Makes the CX-5 Special for Families
The CX-5 isn’t just another SUV in the crowded Australian market. What sets it apart is how it manages to feel like a sporty car while still offering the practicality families need. The current generation combines Mazda’s striking KODO design philosophy with genuine everyday usability.
Whether you’re navigating school pick-ups in suburban Melbourne or planning weekend adventures to the Blue Mountains, the CX-5 adapts to your lifestyle. There’s a world out there to explore, places to see and endless roads to discover. With the Mazda CX-5, every drive feels like the start of something new.
Real-World Practicality
Space matters when you’ve got kids, sports gear, and weekend shopping to consider. The CX-5 offers 442 litres of boot space, expanding to a generous 1,342 litres when you fold the rear seats down. That’s enough room for everything from prams to camping gear, making it genuinely useful for active families.
Pricing That Makes Sense
2025 Model Range
The Mazda CX-5 is available from $36,740 to $55,650 for the 2025 range of models, giving you plenty of options depending on your budget and feature requirements. The range includes:
- G20 Maxx: The entry point at $36,740, perfect for budget-conscious families
- G25 variants: The sweet spot for most buyers
- G35 Akera Turbo: The flagship at $55,650 for those wanting maximum features
Value Proposition
What’s impressive about these prices is what you get included. Even the base model comes loaded with safety features that used to be expensive options. Metallic finishes cost an extra $795, which is reasonable compared to many competitors.
Performance Options for Every Driver
Engine Choices
The 2025 CX-5 offers three four-cylinder engines, each designed for different driving needs:
2.0L Naturally Aspirated: Perfect for city driving and budget-conscious buyers 2.5L Naturally Aspirated: The balanced choice for most families 2.5L Turbocharged: The top variant in the Mazda CX-5 2025 range has a Petrol fuel type with 170kW of power and 420Nm of torque
Fuel Efficiency
The Mazda CX-5 2025 offers fuel consumption ranging from 6.9 to 8.2 L/100km, which is competitive in the medium SUV segment. The naturally aspirated engines are particularly efficient for urban driving.
Safety First Approach
Standard Safety Features
Mazda takes safety seriously, and it shows. With High Beam Control (HBC), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC), Tyre Pressure Monitor (TPMS) and Smart City Brake Support (SCBS) now standard across the range, Mazda CX-5 puts safety as its top priority.
Advanced Driver Assistance
The radar cruise control system is particularly clever. Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC) with Stop & Go adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the car ahead with the ability to bring you to a complete stop in traffic and take off again once traffic moves. This makes long drives and traffic jams much less stressful.
Technology and Comfort
Connectivity Features
Modern families need connectivity, and the CX-5 delivers with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. The infotainment system is intuitive enough that you won’t need to read the manual to figure it out.
Interior Comfort
The cabin feels more premium than the price suggests. Higher trim levels include features like heated and ventilated seats, which are genuinely appreciated during Australian summers and winters. The driving position is excellent, giving you good visibility for both city parking and highway cruising.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 4575mm L x 1845mm W x 1675-1680mm H |
| Boot Capacity | 442L (1342L seats folded) |
| Seating | 5 seats |
| Ground Clearance | 193mm |
| Fuel Tank | 58L |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 2000kg (varies by variant) |
| Service Intervals | 12 months/15,000km |
| Warranty | 5 years unlimited kilometres |
Is the CX-5 Right for You?
Perfect For:
- Families wanting car-like driving dynamics
- Urban drivers who occasionally need SUV practicality
- Those who appreciate good build quality and reliability
- Buyers seeking strong resale value
Consider Alternatives If:
- You need maximum interior space (the CX-60 might suit better)
- Third-row seating is essential
- You prioritize rock-bottom running costs above driving enjoyment
The Mazda CX-5 represents excellent value in Australia’s competitive medium SUV market. It’s not the biggest or cheapest option, but it strikes a brilliant balance between practicality, driving enjoyment, and value for money.
On Thursday the 10th of July 2025 at 18:00 AEST, Mazda will unveil the All-New Mazda CX-5, so current buyers might want to consider waiting to see what improvements are coming. However, the current model remains a solid choice that has proven itself with Australian families.
Whether you’re upgrading from a smaller car or replacing an older SUV, the CX-5 offers the kind of real-world usability that makes daily life easier without sacrificing the driving experience that makes every journey enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the most popular CX-5 variant for families?
A: The G25 variants offer the best balance of features and value, with enough power for family needs without the premium of the turbo engine.
Q: How reliable is the CX-5 for long-term ownership?
A: Mazda has built a strong reputation for reliability, and the CX-5 benefits from a 5-year unlimited kilometre warranty plus 12-month/15,000km service intervals.
Q: Is all-wheel drive necessary in Australia?
A: Most buyers choose FWD for city driving, but AWD is worthwhile if you regularly drive on unsealed roads or in challenging weather conditions.
Also Read:-Mahindra XUV700 Now Offers More Features at the Same Price
