Mazda CX-5 Makes Production Debut at 2011 LA Auto Show
Mazda has unveiled the production-ready 2013 CX-5 crossover at the Los Angeles Auto Show, confirming a 2.0-litre SkyActiv petrol engine for North America.
Mazda has taken the wraps off the final production version of its 2013 CX-5 compact crossover at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show, confirming the model’s North American specification and powertrain. The CX-5, previously previewed in prototype form, arrives as Mazda’s newest entry in the compact SUV segment and the first to fully adopt the company’s SkyActiv engineering philosophy.
Mazda confirmed the CX-5 will be powered by a 2.0-litre SkyActiv-G direct-injection petrol engine for the US market, producing 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. Buyers can choose between a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic gearbox, though all-wheel drive is only offered with the automatic. The engine is designed to run on regular 87-octane fuel, a point Mazda highlighted as a cost-saving measure for buyers.
Engine, transmission and fuel economy
Initial speculation had suggested a diesel option, but Mazda’s North American launch sticks to petrol for now. The SkyActiv-G unit is part of Mazda’s push for improved efficiency without resorting to hybrid technology. Official estimates put the front-wheel-drive CX-5 at 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway, while the all-wheel-drive model drops slightly to 26/32 mpg. These figures position the CX-5 as one of the more economical petrol-powered crossovers in its class at launch.
| Engine | 2.0-litre SkyActiv-G direct-injection petrol |
|---|---|
| Power | 155 hp |
| Torque | 150 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD (manual/auto), AWD (auto only) |
| Fuel economy (FWD) | 26/33 mpg (city/highway) |
| Fuel economy (AWD) | 26/32 mpg (city/highway) |
Market launch and pricing
Mazda has not released final pricing, but the CX-5 is expected to start between $20,000 and $25,000 in the US. The model is scheduled to reach North American dealerships in early 2012. With its focus on efficiency and competitive pricing, the CX-5 will compete directly with established rivals in the compact SUV sector.
Context in the compact SUV market
Mazda’s decision to reveal the CX-5 at Los Angeles puts it in direct contention with other new compact SUVs making their debut at the same show, including the 2013 Ford Escape. The CX-5’s combination of fuel efficiency, regular-fuel compatibility and manual gearbox availability sets it apart from some rivals, though diesel and hybrid options remain absent from the US line-up for now.
The CX-5 will be a key part of Mazda’s US line-up for 2012, aimed at buyers seeking a practical and economical alternative to established names in the segment. Full pricing and equipment details are expected closer to launch.
