Launched in 2012, the Japanese SUV shared its platform with the third generation of the Mazda 6.
Under the skin, the CX5 featured Mazda’s SKYACTIVE technology both for the engine and the gearbox. This allows the vehicle to obtain a respectable fuel efficiency for its class.
Mazda didn’t want to follow the same path as other carmakers. It introduced its own design language named Kodo, or the soul of motion.
Behind that marketing, the name was a vehicle where life-inspired shapes (bio-design) and functional yet simple lines from the Japanese minimalism styling met.
Thus, the CX5 featured swept-back headlights inspired by felines and a shield-like pentagonal, wide grille.
The flowing lines from the car’s sides were also inspired by waves and nature.