REFRESHINGLY OLD SCHOOL

Recent mid-life facelifts for large SUVs have all followed certain trends: a minor design makeover, a range of new electrified engines topped by a plug-in hybrid and a reworked interior with a larger, shinier touchscreen.

The Mazda CX-5 has always been a bit different from the rest of the pack, though, standing out for its driving attributes and sharp style. And its facelift is a bit different too: there’s no electrified engines nor touchscreen. And that might well be no bad thing.

While Mazda has added a new “flagship” 191bhp 2.5-litre Skyactiv-G petrol engine above the existing 2.0litre unit, it’s devoid of even the mildest wisp of electrification (and indeed a turbocharger).

Instead, it uses cylinder deactivation to automatically switch between two and four cylinders to boost efficiency, with an official WLTP fuel economy of 15kpl. There’s no vastly inflated official kpl figure that you will never be able to hit here (although, on the flipside, no favourable tax bracket).

It’s refreshingly responsive, offering a useful slug of power that helps offset the not inconsiderable SUV heft of the CX-5. Without any electric boost, there’s no engine-free running from start-up; but while that does make for a little less refinement, the payoff is the surprisingly pleasant roar of the SkyactivG unit.

Once up to speed, it doesn’t lack for refinement or response compared with its rivals; and if you select Sport

Hearteningly nonconformist SUV gains a 2.5-litre petrol engine as part of its update

JAMES ATTWOOD

driving mode, it gives a very pleasing soundtrack. Happily, this engine doesn’t affect the CX-5’s positive handling or driving dynamics, either.

The CX-5 was already one of the most stylish machines in its class, so Mazda wisely resisted the temptation to fiddle with the exterior much.

The updates to the classy, comfortable interior are mild too, the most notable being the larger (10.25in) infotainment screen. Note I didn’t say touchscreen: the system is still controlled purely by a rotary dial.

Your reaction to that will probably be a good judge of the appeal the CX-5 holds for you. It might not win over SUV buyers seeking premium sheen, fancy tech or tax-cutting powertrains, but it continues to plough its own furrow and present a compelling, slightly oldschool alternative.