2011 Mazda CX-5 Additional Features

The 2011 Mazda CX-5 should be powered by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder, in both naturally aspirated and turbocharged versions. The Kazamai concept, which may hint at the CX-5's styling, is shown here.

Also like Tribute, every 2011 Mazda CX-5 should come with 4-wheel ABS, 4-wheel independent suspension, an antiskid system, traction control, and a full complement of airbags. The rest of the package will draw heavily on the next-gen Focus/Kuga. That could mean electric power steering to replace hydraulic, and new options such as a rearview camera for the available navigation system. Ford's Sync infotainment voice control may also be offered under a different name.

In all, the 2011 Mazda CX-5 looks like a logical follow-up to the larger CX-7 and CX-9, with even more emphasis on "Zoom Zoom" appearance and driving fun. Our only question is how well this apparent mating of sexy sports car and practical crossover will work in the real world. We'll let you know as soon as we find out.

A Notable Feature of the 2011 Mazda CX-5

Though the 2011 Mazda CX-5 shapes up as a thoroughly modern small crossover, we don't expect it to have any major technical innovations. Affordable pricing takes priority in this market class. So does that preclude a gas/electric hybrid option? Hard to say. The Tribute belatedly got one for 2008, after suppliers were able to deliver more batteries and other hybrid-specific components; previous shortages had delayed the Tribute Hybrid and limited production of the Escape/Mariner version. But Ford is reportedly developing its own new hybrid system, and although the CX-5 would presumably be designed to accommodate it, Mazda may have other ideas. Stay tuned.