As a mid-model year car, or “2016.5”, Mazda North America wants to make its crossover more attractive to US customers by loading with more standard features.
The CX-5 now comes with a standard backup camera on all trim levels equipped with the SKYACTIV-Drive 6-speed automatic transmission, while Touring versions gain sat-nav as standard, as well as heated front seats.
At the same time, the navigation system is also available as standard on the Grand Touring versions.
“The added content in 2016.5 CX-5 reflects our customers’ tastes toward premium features in a compelling, fun-to-drive, stylish crossover”, said Robert Davis, Senior VP Mazda North American Operations (MNAO). “CX-5 buyers are educated, upwardly mobile, active-lifestyle individuals. With these updates, we aim to provide them with an even greater ownership experience.”
Previously, in order to enjoy the backup cam you would have needed the Rear View Camera Package. By making this widely appreciated feature available on just about every single model in the range as standard, Mazda is actually adding not a gadget but a useful feature.
Just like the previous version, the entry-level Sport models come standard with a 155 HP SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter petrol engine paired to a SKYACTIV-MT 6-speed manual transmission. If you opt for it, you’ll have to do with front-wheel drive and no rear view camera though.
Move up in the range and you get to enjoy the more powerful 184 HP 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G unit as well as MAZDA CONNECT infotainment and a 7″ color display.
Sales for the 2016.5 Mazda CX-5 are set to begin in January, with prices starting from $21,795.
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