2019 Mazda CX-5 Diesel Technology & Safety Review

The Mazda CX-5 is one of those cars that are deemed pricey, and it’s rightfully so. Filled with more than a handful of tech features up to the brim, the Japanese compact crossover aims to provide a safe and convenient driving experience to go with the critically-acclaimed Jinbai Ittai driver-car connection.

Here’s a closer look at the 2019 CX-5’s technology and safety features found on the range-topping diesel trim.

What’s included: keyless entry, push-start ignition, adaptive LED headlamps with auto-leveling function, rain-sensing wipers, speed-sensing door locks, electronically-adjustable driver (with memory) and passenger seats, electronic parking brake with brake hold, cruise control, auto up/down driver’s window, auto-dimming rearview mirror, dual-zone climate control system, 7-inch infotainment system with Bose speakers, front and rear parking sensors, rear camera, and power tailgate.

These features work without any issues at all but my favorite would be the memory function of the seats. It allows you to store new adjustments even when the car is moving, which is a very convenient feature if you adjust your seats on the fly. Plus, the head-up display isn’t intrusive to the line of sight and displays uncluttered information like blind spot and lane departure warnings, speed limits, and current speed.

What you won’t like: Lack of Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, i-Stop feature

If this review came out two years ago, the lack of Apple CarPlay/Android Auto wouldn’t be an issue. However, the number of cars that has either of the two is increasing, which begs us to ask why the CX-5 doesn’t follow suit.

Nevertheless, the infotainment still connects seamlessly whether via Bluetooth or USB, plus handsfree calls are crisp and clear. The sound quality from the Bose speakers is top notch and could cater to a lot of music genres. The floating screen also displays upcoming intersection – a useful feature in conjunction to your smartphone’s navigational app.

The i-Stop feature in the CX-5, however, remains to be an extra-but-not-really-needed feature.

What’s included: dual front, side, and curtain airbags, blind spot monitor, lane departure warning, speed limit warning, ABS with EBD, five 3-point seatbelts, ISOFIX child seat anchors, stability control, seatbelt reminders, and immobilizer.

In addition to these features, the CX-5 has G-Vectoring Control – not entirely a safety feature but during heavy rains, this technology reduces your chance of having to deal with slippage and loss of traction, especially when tackling mountain passes. It’s also important to note that the blind spot warnings aren’t annoying at all, as are the proximity sensor warnings.