A NEW, more powerful engine and upgraded infotainment and connectivity systems are highlights of an updated range of Mazda CX-5 SUVs which arrives in UK dealerships this month.

As well as featuring the Japanese company's flagship, 2.5-litre 194ps Skyactiv-G petrol engine for the first time, the new 18-model range also features a new special edition version in the shape of the CX-5 Kuro.

All models in the range now feature a new larger, faster and clearer 10.25-inch centre display screen, more intuitive Mazda Connect Commander operation and an expanded range of Connected Services operable by the latest MyMazda App.

Convenience and peace-of-mind connectivity features include remote door locking, a vehicle finder, remote pre-programming of multiple navigation destinations, a service booking request facility and security alert.

The latest range, which is priced from £27,230, offers a broad choice of petrol and diesel engines with options for both manual and automatic transmission and a choice of four wheel or front wheel drive.

Matched exclusively to front-wheel drive, the 165ps two-litre Skyactiv-G engine is the mainstay of the range and available in all trim levels - SE-L, Sport and GT Sport - with a choice of manual or automatic transmission in each trim. Improvements to the power unit have led to reduced CO2 emissions and improvements in fuel economy.

Having made its UK debut in the Mazda6 last year, the 194ps 2.5-litre Skyactiv-G engine joins the CX-5 range exclusively in GT Sport trim paired to an automatic gearbox and all-wheel drive, with a price tag of £36,860.

The 150ps Skyactiv-D diesel engine is offered with front-wheel drive in SE-L and Sport trim with a choice of gearbox, while the more powerful 184ps oil-burner is offered in Sport and GT Sport trim with the latter only available with all-wheel drive.

Mazda have chosen to leave the CX-5's sleek styling well alone, but the new Kuro Edition, priced from £29,630, adds a sportier-looking model to the range. Limited to 750 examples, the 165ps Skyactiv-G powered Kuro Edition is offered with a choice of Soul Red Crystal Metallic or Polymetal Grey Metallic paint, which is contrasted by 19-inch black alloy wheels and black mirror caps.

Inside, the Kuro CX-5 features a power adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats and black half leatherette and suede seat trim over and above the SE-L model which it's based on, while the cabin features black dashboard and door inserts plus red stitching on the seats, steering wheel, knee pads, gearshift surround, armrest and door surround.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 is available to order now for click and collect, and will be joined in Mazda's SUV line-up by the new Mazda MX-30 in March - Mazda's first battery-electric vehicle - which will sit alongside the CX-5 and the M Hybrid mild-hybrid equipped Mazda CX-30.