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2019 Mazda CX-5 Diesel: Smooth, torquey and pricey

Mazda finally brings a diesel engine to the US in its small CX-5 SUV, and it's expensive.

Jon Wong
Jon Wong was a reviews editor for CNET Cars. He test drove and wrote about new cars and oversaw coverage of automotive accessories and garage gear. In his spare time, he enjoys track days, caring for his fleet of old Japanese cars and searching for the next one to add to his garage.
Jon Wong
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After announcing plans to bring a diesel engine to the US seven years ago, Mazda has finally followed through with the launch of the 2019 Mazda CX-5 Diesel.

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After numerous delays, Mazda's new 2.2-liter twin-turbocharged I4 diesel is available in the CX-5, making 168 horsepower and 290 pound-feet of torque.

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The diesel engine helps the increase the CX-5's towing capacity to 3,500 pounds. That's up from the 2,000 pounds that gas-powered CX-5s are rated for.

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Like the gas engine, the diesel works with Mazda's six-speed automatic transmission, which routes power to all four wheels.

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According to the EPA, the 2019 Mazda CX-5 Diesel returns an estimated 27 miles per gallon in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.

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Diesel fuel economy is slightly better than the 2.5-liter turbocharged I4 gas engine's 22 mpg city and 27 mpg highway ratings.

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The diesel is only available in the range-topping CX-5 Signature trim. 

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While the gas engine starts at $36,890, the diesel engine is quite a bit more expensive beginning at $41,000. Those prices do not include $1,045 for destination costs.

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Outside of the diesel engine, the CX-5 Signature still features a host of standard equipment such as heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, navigation and a HUD (head-up display).

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For 2019, the Mazda Connect infotainment system finally receives Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities.

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