Audi Q5: confidently efficient

The all-new second generation Mazda CX-5 was introduced last year, and feels and looks larger than its predecessor despite being dimensionally similar to the first generation CX-5.

Perhaps it has something to do with its large and concave grille with sleek LED headlamps, making the CX-5 look somewhat wider.

Its A-pillars were also pushed bit back to give it a longer looking and swooping hood, adding to its sporty appeal.

The new generation CX-5 feels and looks more sophisti- cated, and this feeling is strengthened by more advanced systems and goodies packed into this vehicle.

The all-new CX-5 is the second edition of Mazda’s acclaimed first full SkyActiv model that features an evolution of the Kodo – Soul of Motion design based on the idea of “Refined Toughness.”

Its interior layout and details adhere to a human-centered approach in line with the jinba-ittai principle.

Loosely translated as rider ( jin), horse ( ba), and one body ( ittai), the engineering and design philosophy behind every Mazda vehicle defines the connection between the driver and the ve- hicle, embodying harmony and using the vehicle as the extension of oneself.

The all-new CX-5 was unveiled in 2016 at the Los Angeles Auto Show, and was the first Mazda diesel ever sold in North America.

Introduced in 2017, the CX-5 is now equipped with G-Vectoring Control (GVC), Mazda’s ground-proving system to enhance driving feel and improve passenger riding experience under the new SkyActiv vehicle dynamics technologies.

The GVC uses the engine to enhance handling as well as ride comfort by intelligently inducing chassis behavior.

It is the first-ever system to use variable engine torque based on steering input, controlling lateral and longitudinal acceleration and deceleration forces to optimize and balance vertical load on each wheel that touches the road.

With this system, traction is greatly improved, giving the driver confidence to push the vehicle to its full potential.

Aside from the GVC system, handling is made much better for the new generation CX-5, thanks to a slightly wider track, stiffer chassis (by about 15 percent), and a lower center of gravity.

Safety driving features include adaptive LED headlamps with 12-split array, improving nighttime visibility and avoid- ing dazzling oncoming traffic.

Its blind spot monitoring uses radars mounted on the rear bumper to enable the driver to detect cars approaching from behind, and in the adjacent lanes, to alert the driver to the presence of cars in the blind spot of either side.

It also has a rear camera display to help the driver when backing up.

Inside, aside from the jinba ittai ergonomics, a multi-function commander allows the driver to easily navigate the CX5’s onboard electronics linked to the infotainment, navigation, and other controls.

The MZDconnect display infotainment monitor screen is prominently displayed on the dashboard, which doubles as a rear camera monitor screen.

For onboard entertainment, it uses the Bose Surround sound system, which is considered a premium for this segment.

Because of these, it is not surprising that in the recently concluded Geneva Motor Show, the Mazda CX-5 became a finalist in the World Car of the Year Awards.

Jockeying for the top awards were two other cars, the Range Rover Velar and the Volvo XC60.

The winner of this year’s World Car of the Year will be announced on March 28 at the New York Auto Show.