Mazda’s turbo CX-5 hits Japan

The popular CX-5 small SUV is now available with a turbocharged 2.5-litre engine - in Japan at least.

Tipped to reach Australian shoes in late 2018, the turbocharged Mazda CX-5 borrows its engine from the larger CX-9 seven-seater and increasingly premium Mazda6 sedan and wagon.

Japanese examples of the CX-5 serve up 169kW of power at 4250rpm, and 420Nm of torque at 2000rpm, representing sizeable 29kW and 169Nm increases compared to the current 2.5-litre model. 

The upgrades make it one of the most powerful cars in its class.

Importantly, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity also feature in Tokyo-spec examples of the popular crossover, which also gains a 360-degree camera and nighttime pedestrian detection system.

Top-spec examples in Japan benefit from soft two-tone leather, real woodgrain trim and 19-inch alloys which might make it to Australia.

Mazda has also tweaked its G-Vectoring control system. Already used to trim throttle inputs to smooth cornering, the updated system now adds a touch of brake on one side of the car to help control rotational yaw. Mazda says it offers “a reassuring feeling of control when changing lanes on the highway and when driving on snow or other slippery road surfaces”.

Full details surrounding the updated model will be revealed closer to its Australian launch.