Mazda CX-5 updated for 2023 with new range of trim levels

It was only late last year that the Mazda CX-5 was updated for 2022, but Mazda has decided it’s mid-sized SUV needs another tweak for the 2023 model year. Alongside a new trim level lineup comes the introduction of Mazda’s ‘M Hybrid’ powertrain across the range. 

The new CX-5 is available to order now, with Mazda expecting first customer deliveries in March next year. As before there are five different trim options, this time made up of entry-level Centre-Line, Newground, Exclusive-Line, Homura and top-spec Takumi.

Making up around 25 per cent of Mazda’s UK sales, the CX-5 sits as a rival to the likes of the SEAT Ateca, Peugeot 3008 and Honda CR-V. The mid-life refresh launched in January 2022 added new front and rear bumpers, updated headlights and tail lights, plus suspension and seat tweaks aimed at improving comfort and reducing road noise. 

The facelift of the second-generation CX-5 also comes with Mazda’s new Mi-Drive system, which is a series of selectable drivetrain modes that adjust the car’s characteristics to suit the road surface. There’s a new Off-Road mode as part of the update, which Mazda says makes driving “feel more natural on unmade and slippery surfaces”, such as gravel. Every petrol-powered CX-5 now comes with 24V mild-hybrid technology and cylinder deactivation on the 163bhp petrol versions with automatic gearboxes. Mazda says this has reduced average CO2 emissions across the range by 9g/km. 

As for the 2023 round of updates, the new CX-5 kicks off with Centre-Line trim. This comes with either the 163bhp e-Skyactiv G petrol engine or 148bhp Skyactiv-D diesel unit. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto are standard, while the front USB ports are now changed to USB-C. Above that sits the Newground model, adding silver exterior accents, lime green sections in the grille, black door mirrors and 19-inch diamond-cut alloys. The boot features a reversible waterproof boot floor.

Mazda expects the mid-range Exclusive-Line to be the biggest-selling CX-5 in the UK and it comes with a choice of 163bhp e-Skyactiv G petrol or 148bhp and 181bhp Skyactiv-D diesel powertrains. The more powerful diesel comes with the option of front or four-wheel drive. Homura trim is above, coming only with the 163bhp petrol engine, it’s pitched as a sportier offering with gloss black wheel arches, side mouldings and door mirrors. There are red accents in the grille and on the seats, plus 19-inch black alloy wheels. 

Takumi replaces GT Sport as the highest specification of CX-5 and features brown Nappa leather for the interior coupled with wood detailing. The exterior utilises the main body colour for all trims for a “unified one-colour to highlight the CX-5’s dynamic proportions”.  The Takumi also comes with the 2.0-litre 163bhp petrol engine with front wheel drive and 191bhp 2.5-litre petrol with all-wheel drive and an automatic gearbox. There’s also the option of the 181bhp diesel with all-wheel drive.

Find out how we got on with a Mazda CX-5 diesel model in our long-term test review...