Introduction to Mazda CX-5
Design and Features Comparison
When you place the 2022 and 2023 Mazda CX-5 side-by-side, you might need a magnifying glass to spot the differences in their exterior design.
This is because the 2023 model is essentially a carryover from the significant refresh the vehicle received in 2022.
That 2022 update refined Mazda’s “Kodo: Soul of Motion” design language, introducing smoother body panels that play with light more elegantly, a redesigned front grille with a three-dimensional texture, and updated LED headlight and taillight signatures that give the SUV a more modern and assertive look.
Both model years share the same athletic stance and flowing lines that have won the CX-5 so many admirers.
Therefore, your choice between the two won’t be based on aesthetics.
Both vehicles present a premium, sculpted appearance that looks far more expensive than their price tag suggests, making either year a fantastic choice for a stylish arrival anywhere in Kenya.
Performance and Engine Specifications
Under the bonnet, the story of similarity continues, which is excellent news for buyers.
Both the 2022 and 2023 Mazda CX-5 models offer the same robust and reliable powertrain options.
The standard engine is a capable 2.5-liter four-cylinder SKYACTIV-G engine that provides ample power for daily commuting and highway cruising.
For those craving more punch, an optional 2.5-liter turbocharged variant delivers a thrilling surge of acceleration that makes overtaking maneuvers effortless.
Perhaps the most significant update, which began in 2022 and carries through to 2023, is that Mazda’s i-Activ all-wheel-drive (AWD) system comes standard across all trim levels.
This is a massive advantage for Kenyan drivers, providing enhanced traction and stability on slippery tarmac during the rainy season or when venturing onto less-than-perfect rural roads.
Paired with a smooth and responsive six-speed automatic transmission, the driving experience in both model years is identical—poised, confident, and engaging.
Interior and Comfort Enhancements
Stepping inside the Mazda CX-5 is where the vehicle truly separates itself from the competition, and thankfully, the high-end experience is consistent across both the 2022 and 2023 models.
Mazda made significant strides in comfort with the 2022 refresh, introducing redesigned seats that offer better support and reduce fatigue on long journeys—a feature that anyone familiar with Kenyan traffic or long-distance travel will deeply appreciate.
This focus on driver and passenger comfort is retained in the 2023 version.
The cabin layout in both is driver-focused and elegantly simple, featuring high-quality materials like soft-touch surfaces and tasteful metallic accents.
Every CX-5 from these years comes standard with a large 10.25-inch infotainment screen, beautifully integrated into the dash and controlled by a convenient rotary knob, reducing driver distraction.
Whether you choose a 2022 or 2023 model, you are getting an interior that rivals those of luxury brands.
Safety Features and Ratings
Mazda’s commitment to safety is uncompromising, and this is another area where the 2022 and 2023 CX-5 models are on equal footing.
Both vehicles come equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies called i-Activsense, which is included as standard equipment.
This isn’t an expensive optional package; it’s a core part of the vehicle’s value proposition.
The suite includes crucial features like Automated Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, which can be a lifesaver in busy urban centers, Lane Departure Warning with Lane-Keeping Assist to help on highways, and Blind-Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.
Furthermore, Mazda’s Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go function makes navigating heavy traffic significantly less stressful.
This dedication to safety is validated by top ratings from international safety bodies like the IIHS, giving you profound peace of mind whether you’re on the school run or a weekend adventure.
Mazda CX-5 Price in Kenya: 2022 vs 2023
Here we arrive at the most crucial differentiator for most Kenyan buyers: the price.
While the two models are nearly identical in features and performance, the Mazda CX5 price in Kenya will vary noticeably between the 2022 and 2023 versions.
As the newer model, a 2023 CX-5 will command a higher purchase price from its country of origin and, consequently, a higher total importation cost.
The 2022 model, having been on the market for an extra year, presents a compelling value proposition.
You are essentially getting the same stylish design, premium interior, standard AWD, and comprehensive safety suite for a more accessible price point.
The final landed cost will, of course, depend on factors like the specific trim level (e.g., Grand Touring, Carbon Edition, Signature), the vehicle’s mileage, and its overall condition.
For the budget-conscious buyer who wants the most bang for their buck, the 2022 CX-5 is undoubtedly the smarter financial choice without any tangible sacrifice in quality or features.
Importing Mazda CX-5 to Kenya: Costs and Benefits
Choosing to import a Mazda CX-5 directly opens up a world of benefits, including access to a wider selection of pristine, low-mileage units and specific trim levels that might be scarce in the local market.
However, understanding the full financial picture is key.
The final Mazda CX5 price in Kenya isn’t just the vehicle’s sale price abroad.
You must factor in shipping costs, marine insurance, import duties calculated based on the KRA’s Current Retail Selling Price (CRSP), the Import Declaration Fee (IDF), Railway Development Levy (RDL), and VAT.
It’s a complex web of calculations and procedures that can be daunting for a first-timer.
This is precisely why partnering with a seasoned and transparent importation service is not just a convenience but a necessity.
A trusted partner demystifies the process, handles all the paperwork, and ensures you’re not met with unexpected costs.
Ready to find the perfect CX-5 without the headache? Cars Kenya offers a seamless, all-inclusive importation service to bring your dream car home safely and affordably.
Conclusion
In the head-to-head battle between the 2022 and 2023 Mazda CX-5, the verdict is refreshingly clear.
There are virtually no significant differences in design, performance, interior quality, or safety features between the two model years.
Both offer the same award-winning package that makes the CX-5 a leader in its class: standard all-wheel drive, a luxurious cabin, and a suite of advanced safety tech.
The decision, therefore, boils down almost entirely to cost.
The 2023 model’s primary “feature” is its newer manufacturing date, which comes with a higher price tag.
For the discerning Kenyan buyer, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 represents an exceptional value.
You get an identical, modern, and feature-rich SUV while saving a considerable amount of money.
When you’re ready to import one of these fantastic vehicles, ensure you have an expert on your side. Reach out to Cars Kenya today for a personalized quote and let our team handle the complexities of importation, so you can focus on the joy of driving your new CX-5.
FAQ
- Is the 2023 Mazda CX-5 better than the 2022 model?
For all practical purposes, no.The 2023 Mazda CX-5 is a carryover model, meaning it is virtually identical to the 2022 version in terms of design, engine performance, interior features, and standard safety technology.The only real difference is the model year and the associated higher price.
- What is the average Mazda CX5 price in Kenya for an imported 2022 model?
The final landed price can vary based on trim level, mileage, and condition, but you can generally expect the total cost for an imported 2022 Mazda CX-5 to range from KES 4.5 million to KES 5.5 million.Higher trims like the Signature or Turbo will be at the upper end of this range.
- Is the Mazda CX-5 expensive to maintain in Kenya?
The Mazda CX-5 is known for its reliability and build quality.Maintenance costs are comparable to other Japanese SUVs in its class like the Toyota RAV4 or Subaru Forester.
With its growing popularity, spare parts are becoming increasingly available and affordable in Kenya, making it a sustainable choice for long-term ownership.
- Does the Mazda CX-5 come with a turbo engine?
Yes, it does.Both the 2022 and 2023 CX-5 models are available with an optional 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G Turbo engine.
This engine provides significantly more horsepower and torque, offering a much more spirited and powerful driving experience for those who desire it.
- Why should I import a Mazda CX-5 with Cars Kenya?
Importing with Cars Kenya eliminates the stress and complexity of the process.We provide full transparency on all costs, handle all logistics from the source country to your doorstep, manage all KRA and NTSA requirements, and leverage our experience to ensure you get the best possible vehicle at a fair market price.
We are your trusted partner for a smooth and secure car importation experience.
