Automotive Fleet
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Mazda CX-5 Gets New Style, All CX Models to Get AWD

In its refreshed CX-5, Mazda will make i-Activ all-wheel drive standard across the entire CX lineup in the U.S. market, starting with the 2022 model year.

September 16, 2021
Mazda CX-5 Gets New Style, All CX Models to Get AWD

The 2022 CX-5 will also feature new exterior styling and seating upgrades, and introduces Mazda intelligent Drive Select. 

Photo: Mazda

2 min to read


Mazda is refreshing its CX-5 model for 2022, including making its i-Activ all-wheel drive (AWD) standard across the entire CX lineup in the U.S. market going forward.

The CX-5 crossover receives new styling and driving dynamics for 2022. Most recognizably, all 2022 CX-5 models will have a refreshed exterior, with reflective body surfaces on refined front and rear ends. The front adopts a new signature wing that extends outward from the front grille, and a 3D texture that replaces the outgoing mesh surface. The headlights and taillights receive significant design changes too, with each lamp featuring a pair of horizontally spaced, rectangular LED. All-new aluminum alloy wheels are added as well.

The 2022 CX-5 turbo models will receive additional styling enhancements. Formerly known as Grand Touring Reserve, it offers gloss black finishes outside, while the inside features red accents and stitching. 

As far as its driving dynamics and ride quality, the 2022 CX-5 will have updates to the drive modes, seats, body, and suspension. The 2022 model introduces Mazda intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive), which enables the driver to select the most appropriate drive mode to optimize driving capability with the touch of a switch. The seats are redesigned to provide the driver and occupants with greater stability and a more comfortable experience. More responsive six-speed automatic transmission will provide smooth acceleration. Updates to the suspension include improvements to the dampening control structure and increased frame rigidity to suppress vibrations, reduce road noise, and offer a quieter cabin. 

Mazda’s i-Activ AWD system works to enhance the vehicle's performance in various driving conditions by continuously monitoring weight transfer, based on acceleration and cornering forces, shifting power to the appropriate wheels, and sharpening turn-in response and control. Mazda says making i-Activ AWD standard for all CX models "is part of the Mazda brand’s expansion into the premium space."

The CX-5 is Mazda's best-selling vehicle in the U.S. and debuted nearly a decade ago.

More Vehicle Research

AF news recap
Vehicle Researchby Faith HowellAugust 14, 2026

The Tools Are Smarter, but Are Your Fleet Strategies? | AF News Recap

From a fleet manager’s critical first 90 days to why more technology doesn’t automatically mean better safety, this week is all about turning tools into results.

Read More →
City of Carlsbad public works superintendent sits across from publisher for Automotive Fleet Chris Brown
Vehicle Researchby StaffAugust 14, 2026

Beyond the Hype: How AI Can Make Fleets More Productive

How can AI actually make fleets more efficient?

Read More →
A blue and white AF news recap thumbnail on Ram recalls and hands-on AI
Vehicle Researchby Faith HowellAugust 10, 2026

From a Major Ram Recall to Hands-On AI | AF News Recap

A massive Ram recall, new maintenance cost comparisons, the retirement of a longtime fleet industry leader, and hands-on AI are all making headlines. Here’s what fleet professionals need to know this week.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
commercial fleet sales chart, January through July 2026
Vehicle Researchby Chris BrownAugust 9, 2026

Commercial Fleet Sales Rise 7.1% Through July 2026

Commercial fleet sales were the primary source of growth across the commercial, government and rental segments during the first seven months of 2026.

Read More →
A shot of a Volvo electric vehicle with a man charging it in front of a residence.
SponsoredAugust 7, 2026

Top 50 Executive Fleets

It is that time of year again! Time for the 2026 list of the Top 50 Executive Fleets, presented by Automotive Fleet and Volvo as part of its annual Fleet 500. Download now to see this year's list of companies!

Read More →
Arrival feature app on a map
Vehicle Researchby News/Media ReleaseAugust 6, 2026

What Comes Next for Auto Driveaway?

A new Auto Driveaway feature called Arrive provides recipients with live location updates and ETAs during the final hour of a vehicle move, while fleet customers continue to have end-to-end shipment visibility through the company's customer portal.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Graphic titled "Fleet Hacks" featuring three fleet professionals and highlighting AI-generated fuel-saving posters, field team feedback loops, and time management tips for fleet managers.
Vehicle Researchby Faith HowellAugust 5, 2026

Fleet Hacks: AI-Generated Posters, Fleet Sounding Boards, and Managing Your Time

The new Fleet Hacks series highlights the seemingly small, simple ideas that save fleet managers time, money, and headaches.

Read More →
a Promaster City preview thumbnail
Vehicle Researchby Chris BrownAugust 4, 2026

First Look at the Returning 2027 Ram ProMaster City

The Ram ProMaster City returns for 2027 as a midsize cargo and passenger van with a 2,175-pound payload, 2,000-pound towing capacity, and more than 9 feet of cargo-floor length.

Read More →
An AF news recap thumbnail
Vehicle Researchby Faith HowellAugust 3, 2026

New Fleet Data & EV Charging Updates | AF News Recap

Commercial vehicle competition is heating up, the IRS made a rare mid-year mileage rate change, and EV charging just got easier. Here's what fleet professionals need to know this week.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Fleet 500 cover
Vehicle Researchby Chris BrownJuly 28, 2026

Welcome to the New Fleet 500

Using vehicle registration data for the first time, the 2026 Fleet 500 offers a clear view of the evolving commercial fleet landscape.

Read More →