The all-new 2013 Mazda CX-5 today was named to WardsAuto World’s 10 Best Interiors list, as chosen by the publication’s editors. A newcomer to the compact crossover SUV segment, CX-5 boasts the best highway fuel economy of any SUV sold in North America – including hybrids – thanks to SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY, the brand’s innovative engineering philosophy on fuel-saving technologies, says the company.
“To separate itself from the competition, the 2013 CX-5 had to offer not just the same features and options as other compact crossover SUVs, but be better, stronger and smarter than those other offerings,” said Jim O’Sullivan, president and CEO, Mazda North American Operations (MNAO).
“For CX-5 to be honoured with such a distinct award is a testament to Mazda’s passionate attention to every detail — from dynamics and engineering to safety and design.”
All new or significantly changed production vehicles are eligible for review by the editors of WardsAuto. Interiors are rated based on material selection, ergonomics, driver information, safety, overall value, touch points/comfort, fit and finish as well as aesthetics/design harmony. There is no price cap for vehicle entries. The 2013 CX-5 Grand Touring was entered this year.
Previously known as “Auto Interiors of the Year” as part of the Automotive Interiors Show held annually in Detroit, WardsAuto became the title sponsor in 2005, renaming the awards to Ward’s 10 Best Interiors in 2011. The Mazda5 and MAZDASPEED3 were selected for the prestigious list in 2008 and 2010, respectively.
The 2013 CX-5 features high-level standard interior equipment such as a SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual transmission, cloth seat upholstery, power windows with a driver’s side one-touch auto open/close, push-button start, a tilt-and-telescopic steering column, steering-wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls as well as auxiliary and USB connection ports.
As tested, the CX-5 Grand Touring adds standard luxury cabin amenities in the form of a SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission, leather-trimmed seat upholstery, heated front seats, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, dual-zone automatic climate control, a 5.8-inch in-dash color monitor with rearview camera, a power moonroof, 40/20/40-split fold-down rear seats, Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio connectivity with steering-wheel-mounted controls, a Bose Surround Sound System, HD Radio Technology and Sirius Satellite Radio.
