Sports Utility Vehicles (SUV); is it the catchy name? the versatility? or is it the “new normal”? They’ve been around for a while, and they’re one of our most popular Novated Lease vehicle enquiries so we thought we’d see what all the fuss is about.

When it comes to SUVs, there’s plenty of options on the market. This time we pulled the keys to Mazda’s CX-5 Maxx Sport out of the hat and were lucky enough to be given an example from Pakenham Mazda.

Finished in “Soul Red” that adds an extra 5kw of power (red car = more power), we focused on what champion SUVs are made of… safety, reliability, and family appeal. Naturally our off-road fanatic, James, got excited when he saw the AWD badge, but the CX-5’s natural habitat doesn’t require a bulbar, snorkel, lift kit, 32’s and winch to get the job done.

With both hands on the leather-bound steering wheel giving us access to all the important things including media, cruise control and phone connectivity, we took off and headed for the freeway. The 140kw and 252nm of torque coming from the naturally aspirated 2.5L engine had no problem getting to triple digits. Equipped with a smooth, six-speed automatic gearbox, the CX-5 cruised quietly and comfortably as we left the hustle and bustle of suburbia where the CX-5 would do most of its work, to the Latrobe Valley in Victoria, where many might start on a weekend day trip, or extended getaway.

We were fortunate enough to enjoy all the good bits during our test drive, like leather seats, a more than capable stereo with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, climate control and passive safety features. However, our time together was short which meant that a trip to the ‘servo’ was not required, but we were on track to make the manufacturer claimed, combined 7.5L/100km look achievable.

As tested, our AWD CX-5 Maxx Sport was a very palatable $38,950 and for $3,000 less, the FWD variant represents great value and for the month of June is part of Eziway Leasing's EOFY Special Offers. It has enough room for shopping and school bags with 440 litres of boot space with the seats in place, and a suitcase devouring 1342 litres with the seats down. As far as future value is concerned, given the popularity of these cars, there’s a good chance the demand will still be high when it comes time to moving it on and getting into your next car.

All in all, after our day spent with the Mazda CX-5 Maxx Sport from Pakenham Mazda, we can see why this car is a Novated Lease favourite in the SUV world.

AUTHOR

Nick Kotsonis | Corporate Relations

T 03 8768 5777

E nickk@eziway.net.au