This Kuro special edition model has just arrived in British Mazda showrooms.
In late 2019, Mazda Japan released information on a new variant for its global best selling SUV, the CX-5. It was a turbocharged variant for buyers looking for added power delivery. At the time, it was the same engine that was used in the luxurious Mazda CX-9 SUV. This new version also arrived with upgraded cabin features and a slightly higher selling price.
Its immediate rivals would be the BMW X1 that delivered 248hp, the Mercedes GLA that produced 241hp and the base Audi Q5 which has 252hp. Yes, they are all luxury nameplates costing almost 100k more to almost triple in price over this CX-5, but this Mazda CX-5 was no shabby looking SUV with its premium interior and lush paint finish.
The Skyactiv-G 2.5T was a 2.5-liter direct-injection turbocharged petrol engine. It was the first turbocharged unit of the Skyactiv-G engine series which powers Mazda’s luxury SUV, the CX-9. Called, ‘Dynamic Pressure Turbo’ it is a worlds-first turbocharging system that adapts its processes according to engine speed.
Now The Latest Version
The 2021 Mazda CX-5 sees the introduction of Mazda’s flagship 2.5-litre 194ps Skyactiv-G petrol engine to the British CX-5 range for the first time, while powered by the 2.0-litre 165ps Skyactiv-G engine, a new CX-5 Kuro special edition model joins the line-up.
Other highlights of the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Kuro include an upgraded infotainment system across the whole range and the introduction of Connected Services. All models in the range feature a new larger, faster and clearer 10.25-inch centre display screen, more intuitive Mazda Connect Commander operation and an expanded range of Connected Services operable by the latest MyMazda App. Convenience and peace-of-mind connectivity features include remote door locking, a vehicle finder, the remote pre-programming of multiple navigation destinations, service booking request and security alert.
The 18-model 2021 Mazda CX-5 range offers a broad choice of petrol and diesel engines with options for both manual and automatic transmission, plus with a line-up that includes both Mazda’s i-Activ AWD system or front-wheel drive there’s plenty of drivetrain choice. Matched exclusively to front-wheel drive, the 165ps 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G engine is a mainstay of the range and available in all trim levels – SE-L, Sport and GT Sport – with a choice of manual or automatic transmission in each trim. Depending on trim level, the 2021 model year versions of the 165ps Skyactiv-G CX-5 emit 7-9g/km less CO2 alongside corresponding improvements in WLTP economy. With manual versions featuring cylinder deactivation, this popular engine is more efficient than ever.
Having made its UK debut in the Mazda6 last year, the 194ps 2.5-litre Skyactiv-G engine joins the CX-5 Kuro range exclusively in GT Sport trim paired to an automatic gearbox and all-wheel drive. Thanks to cylinder deactivation, this 194ps direct-injection four-cylinder engine seamlessly switches between four and two-cylinder operation to improve real-world fuel economy at no cost to performance.
Skyactiv-D Version
The popular 150ps Skyactiv-D diesel engine is offered with front-wheel drive in SE-L and Sport trim with a choice of gearbox, while the more powerful 184ps engine is offered in Sport and GT Sport trim. With the 2021 model year introduction of the 184ps 2WD Sport model, Mazda’s higher output diesel can now be matched to front-wheel drive or all-wheel-drive. At the top of the range, GT Sport cars are exclusively all-wheel drive. All diesel 2021 Mazda CX-5s are updated for RDE2 compliance and will arrive in the UK this April.
Across all engines the 2021 Mazda CX-5 benefits from optimized throttle pedal calibration for better response and control with improved engine response to throttle inputs, while the responsiveness of the six-speed automatic transmission has also been improved.
With its perfectly balanced execution of Mazda’s Kodo design philosophy, the award-winning styling of the Mazda CX-5 has been left alone. However, the introduction of the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Kuro Edition adds a unique looking model to the range.
Kuro Explained
Limited to 750 examples, the 165ps Skyactiv-G powered Kuro Edition is offered with a choice of free-of-charge Soul Red Crystal Metallic or Polymetal Grey Metallic paint, which is contrasted by 19-inch black alloy wheels and black mirror caps.
Inside, the Kuro CX-5 features a power adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats and black half leatherette and suede seat trim over and above the SE-L it’s based on, while complementing the unique exterior, the cabin features black dashboard and door inserts plus red stitching on the seats, steering wheel, knee pads, gearshift surround, armrest and door surround.
