It wasn’t long ago that Mazda was the “zoom-zoom” manufacturer, tugging at enthusiasts’ heartstrings with cars like the MX-5 Miata, RX-7 and RX-8, and multiple Mazdaspeed models. But times change; while the MX-5 remains, Mazda is pushing itself more upmarket these days, not to mention filling its lineup with more SUVs and crossovers with each passing year. That’s not say the Japanese automaker has forgotten about its best-seller, keeping things fresh this year with the 2024 Mazda CX-5 Suna Edition.
Mazda offers six trim levels in the CX-5 lineup, so there should be plenty of options to fit most consumers’ budgets. Pricing ranges from $36,100 for the base GS, up to the top-trim Signature at $44,950. Our tester is the new-for-2024 Suna Edition, priced at $44,200 and exclusive to Canada. But beyond that, there are no significant changes to the CX-5 lineup; since 2022, all-wheel-drive has been standard across the lineup, and that carries over into 2024. That’s how it should be, if you’re in the market for a sport utility vehicle.
The Suna Edition trim brings mostly cosmetic changes to the CX-5. It’s available only in Zircon Sand Metallic over a Terracotta interior, accented by wheels, a front grille, and side mirrors finished in gloss black. It’s still a good-looking crossover and the Suna Edition makes it a bit more unique over the dozens of other CX-5s you’ll likely see on your drive to work. The Suna Edition trimmings are also available on the CX-30 and Mazda3 hatchback.
The CX-5 Suna Edition is powered by Mazda’s turbocharged 2.5-litre SkyActiv four-cylinder engine, pumping out 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on 93-octane gas. Pump in 87 and those figures drop to a still-respectable 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. The CX-5 also soldiers on with Mazda’s tried-and-true six-speed automatic. Performance is more than adequate here; the CX-5 Suna moves along with authority, but don’t expect Mazdaspeed levels of shove. A new transmission with more gears, or even a dual-clutch, would wake things up considerably.
While not the most fuel efficient in its segment, the CX-5 Suna is respectable especially when you consider the power and performance available. Mazda rates the fuel efficiency at 10.8 L/100 kilometres city, 8.7 L/100 km highway, and 9.8 combined. We averaged 11.0 L/100 km in our real-world testing; it may fall below Mazda’s official ratings, but with mostly city driving, those figures make sense.
Ride quality is good. The CX-5 certainly leans more towards the sporty side of the segment, though it’s comfortable and quiet enough for most daily commutes around town. Enthusiasts will certainly welcome the CX-5’s slightly stiffer demeanour, but those looking for a cushy ride may be better-served by competitors like the Toyota RAV4 or the Subaru Forester.
The CX-5 has always been known for its high-quality interior, making it among the best in the non-luxury segment, and that continues with the Suna Edition. Materials are top-notch, build quality is heads-and-shoulders above most competitors, and four adults will fit comfortably. But the CX-5 shows its age in a few ways: the part-digital, part-analog gauge cluster looks outdated, and cargo space is rather sparse compared to the redesigned Honda CR-V. The best the CX-5 can do is 875 litres with the rear seats up, and 1,687 when stowed. The CR-V, on the other hand, offers 1,112 with the seats up, and 2,166 stowed. That being said, unless you’re regularly stuffing junk into your trunk, it’s unlikely you’ll feel the pinch. The CX-5 is still plenty roomy for most.
Mazda’s infotainment doesn’t exactly feel cutting-edge, either. It’s the same 10.25-inch display plus rotary knob setup we’ve seen for years, but at least wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and for 2024, Mazda lets you operate those functions via the touchscreen. Mazda’s native system is operable via the rotary knob on the centre console, which can feel clunky at times, navigating through various sub-menus or simply changing the radio station.
When the CX-50 launched last year, I thought it would only be a matter of time before it took over as Mazda’s best-selling vehicle due to its looks, performance, and price. However, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 Suna Edition retains its place on the podium with its competitive pricing, lovely interior, loyal customer base, and overall value.
