Mazda CX-5 gets turbo engine in US. Are we next?

MAZDA IN America has revealed a new CX-5 specification grade that features the powerful turbocharged engine from the CX-9.

The CX-5 range has been in need of some extra oomph since it was released in 2017, and Mazda’s engineers have figured out a way to fit the 2.5-litre turbo four-cylinder from its seven-seat sibling under the bonnet.

In America the engine comes as part of a new top-of-the-line ‘Signature’ trim package. Locally, Mazda Australia has introduced LE variants to both the CX-3 and CX-9 flagships, featuring more luxurious interior treatments.

Read next: 2018 Mazda CX-5: Which spec is best?

A similar addition to the CX-5 range would likely be called the Akera LE. If Mazda Australia was to follow America’s lead, this is the model that the CX-9’s turbo engine would be fitted to.

Currently, the most powerful petrol engine in the CX-5 line-up is a 2.5-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder, which produces 140kW and 252Nm. Go for an oiler and you get a 2.2-litre twin-turbo diesel sending 140kW and 450Nm to the wheels. The CX-9’s 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine generates 170kW and 420Nm. Mazda America’s new CX-5 Signature hasn’t been throttled back in any way, producing exactly the same power output as the CX-9.

Weighing in on average 200kg lighter than the CX-9, the extra grunt will make a considerable difference to the CX-5’s driver appeal.

Mazda’s engineers have also been hard at work fettling the company’s G-Vectoring Control system, with the CX-5 Signature featuring an updated G-Vectoring Control Plus.

The improved system uses the brakes to add more stability on corner exits, where the standard system focuses solely on corner entry.

Sport Touring and Grand Touring trim levels in the US will receive the atmo 2.5-litre engine, while the Grand Touring Reserve will slot beneath the Signature and also be fitted with the turbo donk.

WhichCar first revealed the CX-5 could be receiving the 2.5-litre turbocharged engine in September this year, after spotting homologation documents that listed a ‘SkyActiv-G 2.5T’ engine on the car’s local certification.

A CX-5 turbo has not been confirmed by Mazda Australia.