2013 Mazda CX-5 Philadelphia

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The 2013 CX-5 replaces the Mazda Tribute as the smallest of Mazda's crossover trio, which includes the CX-7 and CX-9. The Mazda CX-5 is based on a new platform, or structure, and uses new suspension, brakes, and interior. It shares a new engine and transmission with the 2012 Mazda 3. The CX-5 is expected to emphasize the enjoyable, zoom-zoom, more-sporting-than-average driving qualities the brand is known for, without a harsh or choppy ride. It is the first vehicle to embody the entire philosophy of SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY, which reimagines every component from the ground up to work together in unprecedented harmony. Not only does the CX-5 use Mazda's SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY, but it's also unique for its impressive fuel economy, responsive handling and bold style. Trim levels for the 2013 CX-5 are the Sport, Touring and Grand Touring.

2013 Mazda CX-5 Exterior

The wheelbase of the CX-5 stretches 106.3 inches, longer than that of the new 2012 Honda CR-V and the new 2013 Ford Escape. Five inches shorter from bumper to bumper than the Mazda CX-7, the CX-5 has a footprint similar to popular SUVs in its class. Seventeen-inch wheels are standard, with 19s available. Uplevel trims have fog lights and adaptive xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights, which is uncommon for a small SUV. The first vehicle to adopt Mazda's Kodo design language from 2010's Shinari concept, the CX-5 takes the brand's now-signature smiling grille and shapes it into a five-point scowl.

Handling of the '13 Mazda CX-5

Powering the CX-5 is Mazda's newest engine, a high-compression 2-liter four-cylinder engine of 155 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. A CX-5 can tow up to 2,000 pounds. An automatic transmission is optional on the CX-5's base Sport trim level and standard with the higher Touring and Grand Touring trims. The automatic is also required with all-wheel drive. Mazda also announced the CX-5 will eventually offer a 2.2-liter turbodiesel engine option; the diesel's 310 lb-ft of torque essentially renders gasoline turbocharged four-cylinders and V6s redundant. Fully independent suspension uses coil springs all around and 17- or 19-inch wheels.  Four-wheel-disc antilock brakes are standard.

New Mazda CX-5 Cabin

Inside of the Mazda CX-5, the instrument panel eschews overt style for intuitive function. It's designed to be easy to learn to operate for Mazda owners and non-owners alike. It's nicely finished, practically laid out and offers among the options Bluetooth streaming, Bose Centerpoint sound system with HD radio, predictive back-up camera, adaptive bi-xenon headlamps and blind-spot warning system. Despite the smallish rear side windows, the CX-5 has real passenger space: Six-foot-plus types fit comfortably in the rear seat of moonroof-equipped models. Cargo space is very flexible because of a three-section split fold-flat rear seat. The CX-5's simple dashboard has white backlit gauges and a vertical panel housing the center controls. The steering wheel has tilt and telescoping adjustments, as well as redundant audio controls.

Conclusions

Standard safety features include six airbags, antilock brakes and an electronic stability system. Adaptive xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights and a blind spot warning system are optional. The CX-5 replaces the Tribute, essentially a warmed-over Ford Escape, in Mazda's lineup, and it represents a new direction in product development for the company's post-Ford era.  The Skyactiv gasoline engine's 13:1 compression ratio and Atkinson cycle technology yields exceptional efficiency in both output and fuel economy. For more on this model, visit the officialMazda CX-5 website!