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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.

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