New Mazda CX-5 enters production in Japan

The model will be sold in Japan from February before it reaches global markets. The model had its world premiere this month at the Los Angeles auto show.

The first-gen Mazda CX-5 began its life in the production line in November 2011, introducing the full range of SKYACTIV technology and KODO design. Cumulative production hit 1 million units in April 2015, making it the second fastest Mazda to get to the million-unit milestone after the Mazda3. Total production stood at about 1.57 million units at the end of October this year when it went out of production.

With global sales on the rise every year since its launch, the Mazda CX-5 has become the company's core model that makes up 25% of its annual sales volume. Mazda says it used the slogan "an SUV all customers will enjoy," when it developed the new car.

he all-new Mazda CX-5 was announced at the LA Auto show this month with the 2.2-liter SkyActiv-D diesel, SkyActiv-G 2.0 petrol and SkyActiv 2.5 direct-injection gasoline engines. These are mated to either a six-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission. While front-wheel drive remains standard, all-wheel drive is optional.

The CX-5 comes with a new three-spoke steering wheel, push-button start and a 4.6-inch color display in the instrument cluster. On the dashboard is a 7-inch display with the Mazda Connect connectivity system, while a 10-spoke Bose premium sound system is another feature highlight.