Quick look:
- The popular CX-5 SUV goes into its third generation after over 5 million units have been produced and sold globally.
- There will not be a diesel option and the main powertrain is the e-SKYACTIV G MHEV powertrain with a 2.5-litre petrol engine.
The CX-5 has been one of Mazda’s most successful models since the first generation was launched in 2012. Cumulative global production and sales of the CX-5 passed the 5-million unit milestone at the end of 2025.
Notably, the model reached this milestone faster than any other vehicle in Mazda’s history. It is only the third Mazda model ever to reach this volume, following the legacy Mazda 323/Familia and the Mazda3.
Since last year, Mazda has been showing off the third generation of the CX-5 and its launch in many markets has been expected since the end of 2025. Recently, it made its first sales debut in Japan and will now be progressively introduced in various markets.
For the Malaysian market, it is almost certain to be previewed at the coming KL International Mobility Show next month (June 12 – 21) and then have a launch during the third quarter of 2026. Initially, Bermaz will import the vehicles from Japan and then move to local assembly in 2027 at the Mazda Malaysia facility in the Inokom plant in Kedah.
Evolved KODO design
The KODO design language (which its originator said should remain ‘forever’) continues to shape Mazda models but also evolves. For the new CX-5, the rounded lines are now harder and cleaner, giving the SUV a more rugged appearance. The new image follows the brand’s move upwards to a more premium positioning, while maintaining its distinct identity.
Improved rear accommodation
The most significant structural change lies in the physical footprint. Responding to long-standing feedback regarding accommodation for rear passengers in the previous 2 generations, Mazda’s designers extended the wheelbase by a substantial 115 mm, bringing the overall length to 4690 mm.
With this extension, the issue of rear space is directly addressed. There is a noticeably larger rear cabin area with improved legroom and wider-opening doors, along with 61 litres more cargo capacity.
Revised cabin layout
Inside, the cabin layout shows a bold departure from traditional Mazda ergonomics that may divide long-time brand loyalists. The signature analogue rotary command dial on the centre console, which had long been a common feature of Mazda’s driver-centric philosophy, has been removed.
Instead, there’s now a much larger touchscreen (12.9 inches or 15.6 inches, depending on the version) which is the ‘command centre’. Google built-in is standard, giving app versatility but it seems that Mazda believes more in touch and physical controls as the climate controls are also on the digital interface.
Mazda will no longer have a SKYACTIV-Diesel option in the line-up. While this may seem to be a quick response to the current fuel situation, it would have been made well before the Iran War that has pushed pump prices up.
e-SKYACTIV G Mild Hybrid powertrain
The primary powertrain will use Mazda M Hybrid technology which has a 24V MHEV (mild hybrid electric vehicle) unit with a 2.5-litre e-SKYACTIV G engine assisted by small 6.4 bhp electric motor. The motor helps enhance power delivery during stop-and-go urban motoring.
There’s front-wheel drive or, via Mazda’s i-Activ system, all-wheel drive. A 6-speed automatic transmission will be common for the drivetrain, Mazda preferring to stick to a proven, reliable transmission rather than switch to a dual-clutch type.
Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) allows the driver to choose between Normal, Sport and Off-Road drive modes. Coupled with this is the latest version of G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC+) which now incorporates an electronic brake limited-slip differential to improve traction in challenging conditions.
The new CX-5 will also have chassis and suspension improvements, providing enhanced ride comfort and the ‘jinba-ittai’ handling that Mazda enthusiasts love. Brake-by-wire is also new, taking over from the conventional mechanical system and using electronic signals from the pedal to activate the brakes.
