Mazda CX-5

Mid-size SUV / Crossover, five-door · 2012 to present

The Mazda CX-5 is a popular mid-size SUV that has been sold new in the UK since 2012, competing with rivals such as the Nissan Qashqai, Hyundai Tucson and Honda CR-V. The first generation ran until 2017, when a second generation arrived with sharper styling, revised interiors and updated Skyactiv engines, later receiving facelifts in 2019 and 2021 that brought updated infotainment and trim changes. UK buyers have been offered a range of 2.0 and 2.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engines alongside 2.2-litre diesel options, with manual or automatic transmissions and either front-wheel or all-wheel drive depending on trim. Practical, well-built and known for Mazda's engineering approach, the CX-5 has remained a steady presence in the UK family SUV market throughout its production life, with used examples widely available across both generations.

Body type

Mid-size SUV / Crossover, five-door

Years (UK)

2012 to present

Typical engine

2.0 to 2.5-litre Skyactiv-G petrol or 2.2-litre Skyactiv-D diesel, with front-wheel or all-wheel drive and manual or automatic gearboxes

Fuels available

2 options

Fuel and powertrain options

The Mazda CX-5 is sold in the UK with the following powertrain options across its current and recent model years:

Petrol Diesel

Things to check at MOT

Below are common inspection items that owners and technicians often pay attention to on the Mazda CX-5. These align with standard DVSA MOT criteria. Every individual vehicle is different, and the MOT history of a specific car can be checked on gov.uk using its registration plate.

Check for corrosion around the rear wheel arches and subframe mounting points, particularly on earlier first-generation cars
Inspect tyres for uneven wear, which can indicate suspension or alignment issues on AWD models
Test the operation of all exterior lights, including LED daytime running lights fitted to later models
Check the condition of the timing chain tensioner on Skyactiv-G petrol engines for unusual rattling noises
Examine the diesel particulate filter warning light and exhaust system on 2.2 Skyactiv-D variants for signs of blockage or damage

Frequently asked questions

What is the typical MOT failure point for a Mazda CX-5?

Common issues reported include worn brake components, tyre condition and corrosion on the underbody. For accurate figures specific to any individual car, check the official DVSA MOT history on gov.uk.

Does the Mazda CX-5 have a diesel option in the UK?

Yes, the CX-5 has been offered with 2.2-litre Skyactiv-D diesel engines across both UK generations, alongside petrol variants.

Is the Mazda CX-5 available with four-wheel drive?

Many CX-5 models in the UK are offered with Mazda's all-wheel drive system, though front-wheel drive versions are also available depending on trim and engine choice.

How can I check the mileage and history of a used Mazda CX-5?

Use a free vehicle-check service alongside the official DVSA MOT history on gov.uk to review past mileage records, test results and advisories before buying.

Run a free reg lookup on any CX-5

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