Mazda’s SkyActiv Technology Examined

The presentation of the engine compartment is esthetically pleasing with the cover coming in the same colour as the vehicle body. It’s all been laid out elegantly and everything is easy to access.

The pipe for the windshield washer fluid is transparent and flexible enough to wind its way between the mechanical parts.

Increasingly, manufacturers are including stickers with QR codes on their vehicles. This code gives you access to additional information about the CX-5’s mechanics.

In the middle of the photo, we see a sizeable white steel part that supports the engine. A rubber ring insulates it from the engine and cuts down on vibrations.

Behind the engine is plenty of space for a turbocharger or a larger engine. Even though the SkyActiv system doesn’t include a turbo, you can order the CX-5 with a turbocharged engine.

The ABS brake control unit is located at the front of the vehicle and is easy to access.

The oil tank drain plug and dipstick are easily accessible from the top of the engine. These two parts are rarely located so close together, but it’s obviously quite practical this way.

The engine’s air intake is located at the front of the engine compartment. It’s small but it prevents turbulence nonetheless. Connecting to two air chambers, air circulation is smooth and silent.

Once the plastic shield is removed, you can access the drivetrain and surrounding parts. All are within easy reach.

Under the front of the vehicle is a very big plastic guard. It’s part of the SkyActiv system as it improves the vehicle’s aerodynamics. Air flows smoothly under the vehicle, reducing friction and thereby improving fuel economy.

This plastic cover protects tires from debris coming off the road. It also acts as an air diffuser.

There are standard disc brakes in back. At the top of the photo, you can see that the hand brake cable coming in from the left is mounted directly on the caliper. This design is not the best as it requires frequent maintenance.

The independent multi-link suspension on the CX-5 allows the vehicle to remain very agile and absorbs any imperfections in the road surface. The parts are good in size and the assembly appears solid.

The rear differential is well fixed to the chassis and rubber rings keep vibrations to a minimum. The fact that it is so small helps it fit in between the other mechanical parts.

The CX-5’s rear multi-link suspension is anchored in several places. Unlike a torsion beam suspension, the assembly is complex and requires more maintenance – plus, replacement costs are higher, too.

We noted some plastic shields over the rear wheel wells. They protect the mechanical parts from any debris coming off the road and help diffuse air more efficiently to improve fuel economy.

The exhaust system includes a round metal piece to reduce pipe vibrations. Note that the pipe is attached to the vehicle with rubber adapters, also to absorb any vibrations.

Under the vehicle, on either side, are plastic plates used primarily to improve the aerodynamics and diffuse air more effectively, as this in turn helps reduce fuel consumption. However, salt and debris may accumulate under these plates, especially in winter.

Dual exhaust tips improve air circulation and reduce muffler noise.

By the front wheels, we spotted the independent strut suspension. Since this vehicle comes with AWD, there’s the transmission shaft in the centre, the steering above and the suspension table.

The ball joint is riveted instead of being bolted down, meaning it will be more difficult to change when it’s time to replace it.

The suspension table attaches to the chassis by way of large rubber connectors. The design is well thought out, as it eliminates noise caused by vibrations.

Under the vehicle, accessing the oil filter is easy – you just have to remove a plastic cover. Unlike on the Mazda3, the opening is directly across from the filter.

In the centre of the photo, we see part of the gas tank. It was designed to go around the transmission shaft.

The hexagon-shaped oil drain plug. This may become hard to remove if the edges get damaged.