2017 Mazda CX-5: new and improved, with a diesel engine too

The first generation of the Mazda CX-5 has been a sales success in Canada and elsewhere in the world, thanks to its dynamic style, its road manners and its fuel-efficient powertrains. Mazda is introducing a new generation of its compact SUV, presented at the Toronto Auto Show, and it will available with a diesel engine.

First of all, the bodywork has been completely redesigned, even though its resemblance with the current CX-5 is undeniable. However, its style is closer to that of the Mazda3 and the CX-9, among others. The automaker is also announcing a new paint called Soul Red Crystal, a deeper and even more vibrant colour than the Soul Red paint that’s already available on almost all of Mazda’s models.

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The 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine should still serve as the base powerplant, with 155 horsepower, while the 2,5-litre unit provides a little more muscle with its 187 horses. However, it’s the eventual arrival of the 2.2-litre SKYACTIV-D engine, a turbo-diesel four, that will be the centre of attention. This powertrain promises even lower fuel consumption and should develop about 170 horsepower as well as nearly 300 pound-feet of torque.

The 2017 Mazda CX-5 will be on sale at the end of March at a base price of $24,900 excluding freight and delivery charges.