Mazda has confirmed that it will introduce a hybrid variant of the all-new, third-generation CX-5 in 2027. This model will join the CX-50 Hybrid in the company’s electrification strategy for its segment, but unlike the sibling, it will use Mazda’s in-house hybrid technology.
Design
The Mazda CX-5 Hybrid should look nearly identical to the non-electrified petrol and mild-hybrid petrol variants of the third-generation model unveiled last month. There’s not much we expect different visually besides badging and wheel style on the hybrid variant, and this strong commonality would help the company keep the development and production costs in check. Even the exposed exhaust tips, a distinct Mazda design choice, should remain.
Interior
Inside, barring a revised software for the 10.25-inch instrument cluster and the 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system with certain hybrid-specific functions, and the addition of a couple of switches, everything should look the same. The touchscreen, which is the largest ever unit ever seen in a Mazda, should be part of standard equipment.
Skyactiv-Z Hybrid
Mazda has said that the hybrid system will combine a new 2.5-litre Skyactiv-Z engine with electric motors and a lithium-ion battery. The total output is expected to exceed 200 hp, and fuel economy should regularly approach 45 UK mpg on British roads. A short electric-only driving range is also likely, thanks to the modest battery.
Speaking to CarBuzz following the debut of the third-gen CX-5, Stefan Meisterfeld, Vice President of Strategic Planning at Mazda North American Operations, said that the SkyActiv-Z engine’s performance will match or even surpass the turbocharged petrol engine the company offered in the second-gen model.
(Skyactiv-Z) To be Mounted on Next Generation CX-5 in Combination with Mazda Original Hybrid System for Introduction in 2027.
Mazda Motor Corporation Multi Solution Briefing on March 18. 2025
Unlike the CX-50 Hybrid, which uses Toyota’s technology, the CX-5 Hybrid will be a fully Mazda-developed model. A front-wheel-drive layout should be standard, while an electric all-wheel drive option will likely be available. Mazda may not be chasing class-leading boot space, but still, we doubt the hybrid system will have a significant impact on the 583-litre compartment (expected) behind the rear seats of the petrol version.
Release date
Mazda has yet to confirm the availability of the full-hybrid CX-5 for the UK, where it plans to launch the latest model in summer next year. In Australia, where the company has scheduled the sales start in the same year, it has said that it will confirm a hybrid powertrain at a later date. We expect the Japanese automaker to offer the Skyactiv-Z full-hybrid in both the UK and Australia, as well as New Zealand, from mid-2027.
My first real experience with the CX-5 was in Switzerland back in 2013. The original model was an exemplar of the ‘Kodo’ design language, with utility, driving performance, and desirability. About 4.5 million units have been sold of this crossover, and I believe that these traits would be combined with high fuel efficiency in the hybrid version. I’m not expecting a CX-5 Plug-in Hybrid, with the CX-60 PHEV addressing additional electrification needs for that segment.
Shrawan Raja, founder & editor of ElectricVehicleWeb.com
