Mazda CX-5 Review
2017-2023
The second-generation Mazda CX-5 (KF Series) is a dominant crossover in Kenya, balancing styling, tech, and reliability. Powered by 2.0L/2.5L petrol or 2.2L SkyActiv-D twin-turbo diesel engines, landed prices range from KSh 2.5M to KSh 4.2M.
*This score is awarded by our team of expert reviewers after extensive testing of the car
What’s good
- High 210 mm ground clearance handles unpaved roads and potholes easily.
- Sub-2,500 cc KRA import duty tax bracket advantage.
- Massive 450 Nm torque on 2.2L diesel.
What’s not so good
- Diesel DPF requires low-SAPS C3 oil.
- Firm ride on 19-inch L Package alloy wheels.
Most popular: CX-5 2.2 XD L Package / 2.0 20S / 2.5 25S
5 doorsPetrol, DieselAutomatic
At a glance
- Model
- Mazda CX-5 (KF Series)
- Production years
- 2017–2023
- Body type
- 5-Door Mid-Size Crossover SUV
- Seating capacity
- 5
- Fuel types
- Clean Diesel, Petrol
- Engine sizes
- 1,997 cc (2.0L) / 2,191 cc (2.2L Diesel) / 2,488 cc (2.5L)
- Transmission
- 6-Speed Automatic
- Drivetrain
- FWD or i-Activ AWD
- Ground clearance
- 210 mm
- Source market
- UK / Japan (RHD)
Fuel consumption
Manufacturer / import-market figures: 19.5 km/L (2.2D) / 14.5 km/L (2.0L/2.5L). Tank: 58 L (about 1131 km combined). Real-world use varies with load, traffic and altitude.
Running cost
- City driving
- KES 1,419 / 100 km
- Highway driving
- KES 1,032 / 100 km
- 1,000 km a month
- KES 11,639
- Full tank (58 L)
- KES 13,164
Based on petrol at KES 226.96/L, 15-10-2026 to 14-11-2026. Combined economy unless stated.
Work out a trip cost →Trims & variants
- Setup
2.2L twin-turbo diesel (190 hp / 450 Nm), 6-speed automatic, 19.5 km/L.
Package tiers
CX-5 trims range from practical fabric packages to luxurious Nappa leather executive editions and outdoor adventure specs.
| Package | Level | Key features |
|---|---|---|
| PROACTIVE | Mid executive | Fabric/leatherette seats, 8-inch screen, i-Activesense, power tailgate, 17-inch alloys. |
| L Package / Exclusive Mode | Flagship luxury | Nappa leather, Bose 10-speaker sound, ventilated seats, HUD, 19-inch dark alloys. |
About the Mazda CX-5
All CX-5 engine variants (1,997 cc, 2,191 cc, 2,488 cc) sit strictly below 2,500 cc, qualifying for KRA's standard 25% excise tax bracket.
Disclaimer
Tax figures are estimates based on October 2026 KRA schedules. Always verify specific chassis CRSP entries with your clearing agent prior to purchase.
