I was really dissapointed by the acceleration.
I'm sure many will tell you here, the engine is very good at the upper revs. It's very rev happy, and the acceleration is mapped with economy in mind. But when needed, a big boot will give it to you. The main Australian magazine gave it a bad rap on the way the revs were mapped this way but their pros and cons were simply:
Pro: Well packaged; capable dynamics
Cons: High tech four-cylinder engine struggles with weight, auto is eco-obsessed
And for the competition....
Toyota RAV4: You'd buy upper spec Cruiser L for typical Toyota reliability, low running costs and decent resale, not for the off-the-pace four-speed auto, ho-hum dynamics or dated interior.
Subaru Forester XT: Smooth boxer engine is saddled with four-speed auto, sadly but general refinement is good. Solid and dependable rather than truly engaging.
Effectively media has said nothing in its class will touch the CX-5 for dynamics. In one review it said that for once, BMW should be copying Mazda for steering feel not the other way around. It's also got the most modern engine and transmission in class.
If you can live with acceleration being lacklustre, made up for by dynamics then go for it.
Meanwhile unfortunately, picking up my Diesel CX-5 this afternoon - an engine which solves your problem.... then some.