Next-Generation Mazda CX-5 Will Gain Hybrid Power

Face-lifted second-gen Mazda CX-5 2.0 High pictured. The Japanese automaker confirmed recently that the next-generation version will see a hybrid powertrain available.

The ever popular Mazda CX-5 crossover is due for a new generation soon, and its makers have confirmed that it will gain an electrified hybrid powertrain too. Moreover, unlike its other hybrid models sold overseas that ‘borrows’ Toyota’s hybrid tech, Mazda has elected to develop a new and proprietary hybrid tech for this instead.

The Hiroshima-based automaker confirmed these plans recently in a memo published with its recent financial report. In it, Mazda remarked that it plans “to equip next CX-5 with a Mazda-developed hybrid engine.” This will finally allow Mazda to position the CX-5, arguably one of its global best-sellers, strongly against rivals Toyota and its RAV4 Hybrid, amongst others.

Mazda didn’t specify an exact debut or launch date, but insiders quoted by reputable sources online indicate that the new model, which is already in development, will be shown sometime next year (2025). Also unclear is if the description of a "Mazda-developed hybrid engine" denotes to an in-house petrol engine, electrical components, or a combination both.

Locally, the current-gen CX-5 model employs either traditional Skyactiv-G petrol (left) or Skyactiv-D diesel (right) powertrain options. An ISG-equipped MHEV petrol is available too, albeit only n Europe.

A switch to hybrid power might just be what the CX-5 model needs, especially if it were to continue rivalling against the likes of the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. 

Presently, the second-gen CX-5 is available across several powertrain choices including traditional petrol and diesel combustion (ICE) types, along with a ‘mild-hybrid’ (MHEV) choice in Europe. The latter MHEV type employs an integrated starter generator (ISG), but does not have the ability to propel the vehicle solely using electric, unlike hybrid models offered by rivals Toyota and Honda.

 Apart from the adoption of at least one new and partially-electrified powertrain, the next-gen CX-5 model is expected to align closely in terms of design and amenities with Mazda’s Large Products Technology models like the CX-50, CX-60, CX-70, and CX-90, whilst retain its current base chassis architecture, which offers both front- (FWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) formats.

Little else is known about the next-generation CX-5, but the shift towards partial electrification is a sound move. Apart from Toyota’s RAV4 Hybrid, it could also position itself to rival strongly against the latest sixth-gen Honda CR-V that just adopted a hybrid powertrain choice for the first time.