We're Not Kidding: This is the Refreshed 2020 Mazda CX-5

This is the refreshed Mazda CX-5. Coming in for the 2020 model year, you won’t be finding any changes on the exterior. Instead, the changes are all happening inside. And frankly, they’re so minor that only owners of the current model will be able to spot easily.

You can scroll through the photos in this story, trying to pick out the differences yourself, but if you’re a bit short on time, we’ll make it easier for you and lay it all out:

• It gets an updated gauge cluster with a 7-inch LCD screen embedded at the center of the traditional analog gauges. It’s the very same one you’ll find in the all-new Mazda3 and the refreshed Mazda6.
• The climate control buttons are also borrowed from the all-new Mazda3 and for that, they look more streamlined in appearance.

• Real layered woodgrain paneling now adorns the interior. It’s a slight update from the current woodgrain design.
• One-touch up and down power windows for all. 
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is now standard.
• For safety, it’s not known whether Mazda Philippines will spec the 2020 CX-5 with the i-Activsense driver assist suite, but at least for the top-trim Malaysian produced units (where we source our CX-5), it adds a 360-degree camera on top of lane keep assist, blind spot indicators, and rear cross traffic alert.

Powetrain-wise, the 2020 CX-5 remains unchanged, but it does get G-Vectoring Control Plus or GVC-Plus. The system, which is also standard on the refreshed Mazda6 and the all-new Mazda3, can apply a light braking force selectively to enhancing cornering agility. This is on top of the standard GVC which varies engine torque in response to steering inputs.

Now, normally we’d be the first to tell you to hold out and wait for this updated model to arrive. However, given how minor these updates are, getting the current model may be the more prudent option, especially if you are looking for a deal. Remember, discounts are on offer for the remaining 2019 units, particularly the AWD variants. That said, if you still plan to hold out, the earliest timeline for the 2020 CX-5 to arrive would be early next year.