The Skyactiv motors all have a throttle plate on that DBW unit. I know because I've taken mine apart to clean them. I've owned the Skyactiv 2.0 and now have a CX5 with the 2.5 and a 2012 Mazda 5 with the previous gen 2.5. The throttle response with the previous gen 2.5 is definitely more sensitive to inputs and the 5 speed automatic is more willing to downshift. Even though the Mazda 5 weighs about 500 lbs more than the 3, the older 2.5 makes my 5 scoot pretty good from 0-40 mph. My Mazda 5 also weighs about 125 lbs more than my CX5 Touring. The TBW in the CX5 does take some getting used to but once you've learned how to control it with your right foot you can pretty much make it downshift at will. Push it down slowly and it won't downshift. Give it a quick jab, even if it's just a small one, and it downshifts quickly. It's also fun to take control of the trans with the manual feature on the shifter. I use it a lot in rush hour traffic to hold gears for engine braking so I hardly have to use the brakes.
The CX5's only downfall in my eyes is that its loud inside the cabin during freeway driving. I perceive it as louder inside than even my 5 because of the copious amounts of wind noise. If you don't know, the Mazda 5 is a Mazda 3 that has sliding doors and the previous generation non Skyactiv 2.5. It also rides better, handles better, and fits more cargo than my CX5 does. I only paid $17,775 for a brand new Sport and my CX5 was 24,600. To be fair though the CX5 fits my tall frame better with more leg room and the higher ground clearance for me is a plus. If your just looking for a fun vehicle to drive that can haul some stuff, the Mazda 5 is a better deal. I would recommend you test drive one. The gas mileage is also pretty good too and gets over 31 mpg with mostly freeway driving.