CX-5 on 17in wheels. Photo credit: William Leong from Mazda CX-5 Club Malaysia
The Mazda CX-5 SUV was launched here back in May with a pleasing set of features, including the very unusual (for its size) 19-inch alloys with 255/55 rubber. That has been changed to more realistic 17-inch wheels, according to a notice by Bermaz Motor posted on their website and Facebook page.
The notice explains that customers who had placed their booking on or before July 20 will get the 19-inch rims with the original price (RM155,219 for the 2WD, RM165,219 for the AWD, OTR without insurance), but those who placed their names for the CX-5 from July 21 onwards will get the 17-inch rims, at the same price. Word from Mazda CX-5 Club Malaysia is that a RM3,000 top up is required if you still want the 19s.
This spec change may not be that bad a thing, depends on how one looks at it. While the 19s look great on the CX-5, much better than the 17s without a doubt, the smaller wheels will contribute to less unsprung weight and tyre replacement costs will be significantly lower. The latter isn’t so much of an issue with mega-buck Cayennes and X6s, but the CX-5 isn’t aimed at money-no-object customers, and 17s are also par for the course in this segment.
Click here for our review of the Mazda CX-5.
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AI-generated Summary ✨
Comments express disappointment and frustration about the downsizing from 19-inch to 17-inch wheels for the Mazda CX-5, especially since many had booked earlier expecting the larger rims. Several buyers feel misled by the initial promises and lament the lack of clear communication from Bermaz. There are complaints about the additional costs for upgrading to 19-inch wheels and concerns over the handling and ride comfort with smaller rims. Some commenters believe Mazda should compensate affected buyers, and a few suggest canceling orders or boycotting the brand due to perceived unethical practices. Overall, sentiments are negative, highlighting a sense of being misinformed and undervalued, with many feeling disappointed by the company's last-minute changes and lack of transparency.