Skip advert
Advertisement

Mazda CX-5 review – an involving and competent SUV - Interior and tech

As well as being one of the best-looking SUVs thanks to a sharp line and concept-car nose, it’s also one of the best to drive

Evo rating
RRP
from £24,895
  • Composed handling, keen engines, first-rate fit and finish
  • Not as roomy as some, limited engine line-up

Interior and tech

The CX-5 is not groundbreaking inside. The design is conventional, the materials are the usual set of leathers and plastics, and the dominant colour is black. However, what it lacks in exuberance it more than makes up for with a sensible, ergonomic design, and a solid, quality finish.

The icons on the buttons are clear and easy to read, as are the dials. None of the functions seem misplaced, hard to reach or annoyingly different just for the sake of it. The infotainment is simple and easy to use, too: switching between the radio and satnav – a task you might frequently undertake – requires the press of just one button. 

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Can electric beat petrol? Alpine A290 meets Mazda MX-5 – car pictures of the week
Mazda MX-5 v Alpine A290
Features

Can electric beat petrol? Alpine A290 meets Mazda MX-5 – car pictures of the week

Alpine’s A290 is under consideration by evo contributor Peter Tomalin as a replacement for his MX-5. A comparison is in order…
19 Sep 2026
Polestar 3 review – electric SUV updated to face the BMW iX3
Polestar 3
In-depth reviews

Polestar 3 review – electric SUV updated to face the BMW iX3

Polestar’s stylish electric SUV has big competition now from BMW and Mercedes-Benz, so an update was in order
18 Sep 2026
The Ferrari Luce reminds me of a £2k Peugeot, but then I am just a man with a Biro
Ferrari Luce Le Mans
Opinion

The Ferrari Luce reminds me of a £2k Peugeot, but then I am just a man with a Biro

We’re all armchair experts in car design, but in reality it requires real skill, says Porter
18 Sep 2026