By Timothy Albright
About 8 years ago, the Mazda CX5 was not a popular car in Kenya. However, today, it seems that every 20 steps you take, you will spot a Mazda CX5 cruising by, with many of them proudly displaying a captivating wine red color. This remarkable transformation has sparked debates among car enthusiasts in Kenya regarding the vehicle’s performance, reliability, and competitiveness against its rivals.
Intrigued by the buzz and to bring you first-hand information, we took a wine red 2017 Mazda CX5 equipped with a diesel engine for a spin in the picturesque Tigoni tea farms in Kiambu County. Here’s what we discovered:
From the moment we set foot in the Mazda CX5, it exuded a sense of modernity and refinement. Its sleek design, sculpted lines, and bold front grille create an alluring presence on the road. The wine red exterior further adds a touch of elegance, making it a head-turner wherever it goes.
One of the standout qualities of the 2017 Mazda CX5 is its impressive fuel efficiency, which is particularly crucial for Kenyan drivers conscious of rising fuel prices. Equipped with a diesel engine, this CX5 variant offers excellent mileage, allowing you to travel longer distances while making fewer stops at the pump. During our journey to Tigoni, we were pleasantly surprised by its frugality, enabling us to fully enjoy the experience without worrying about refueling.
These diesel engine has however created debate on the reliability as many owners have complained online to having problems with its exhaust system as early as within the first year of ownership.
As we ventured into the hilly terrain of Tigoni, the Mazda CX5’s power and performance came to the forefront. The diesel engine delivered ample torque, ensuring a smooth and responsive drive even on steep inclines. The CX5 effortlessly tackled the winding roads, providing a thrilling and engaging ride. Its nimble handling, combined with precise steering and minimal body roll, instilled confidence and made driving it a a breeze.
In a country known for its diverse terrain, ground clearance plays a crucial role in determining a car’s suitability for local conditions. The Mazda CX5 excelled in this aspect, offering ample ground clearance to overcome obstacles commonly found in Kenyan. Whether it was maneuvering through potholes or taking on uneven surfaces, the CX5’s suspension absorbed the bumps, ensuring a comfortable and stable ride for both driver and passengers.
Pros of the 2017 Mazda CX5:
- Striking and elegant design, turning heads wherever you go.
- Impressive fuel efficiency, allowing for longer journeys with fewer fuel stops.
- Powerful diesel engine providing ample torque for confident hill climbing.
- Nimble handling and precise steering for an engaging driving experience.
- Ample ground clearance, conquering Kenyan roads with ease.
However, as with any car, there are a few aspects that could be improved:
Cons of the 2017 CX5:
- Limited cargo space compared to some of its competitors, potentially posing a challenge for those requiring ample storage capacity.
- The diesel engine, while powerful and fuel-efficient, requires extra care/preventive maintenance.
- For the diesel powered Cx5s, the quality of diesel matters. This is why our AA Membership gives you access to a Kshs 2 fuel discount when you fuel at Total Energies, a reliable diesel supplier.
The 2017 Wine Red Mazda CX5 proved to be a dynamic and reliable companion for Kenyan roads. While it may have some limitations in terms of cargo space and maintenance, these factors are outweighed by its overall strengths.
The Mazda CX5 has successfully established itself as a popular option in the Kenyan market, and its wine red variant adds an element of sophistication to the roads. In the cross over segment, it competes with the Toyota Rav 4, Subaru Forester, Honda CRV, Audi Q5 and VW Tiguan. Which one would you pick?