2025 Mazda CX-5 hybrid confirmed for Aus

The hybrid version of the next-generation 2025 Mazda CX-5 medium SUV will come to Australia to fight the Toyota RAV4.

Multiple other powertrains will be in the mix for our market, something that will help the new CX-5 – expected to make its world debut soon – continue as Mazda’s most popular model, aided by a healthy increase in size.

Its powertrain line-up will include an all-new Mazda-developed petrol-electric hybrid powertrain and will eventually transition – probably in 2027 – to a next-generation Skyactiv Z family of four-cylinder petrol engines.

Mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains have also been mooted, but not officially confirmed, while it’s understood the familiar transverse front/all-wheel drive powertrain layout will be retained – as opposed to the rear/all-wheel drive set-up of the Large Product Group family.

“Mazda hasn’t confirmed other powertrains apart from saying it will have a full Mazda developed hybrid,” Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi said.

“But you know us, we will take all options that are available to us.

“But it is too early for us to comment on what other things have been planned.”

The addition of a full hybrid CX-5 will aid Mazda significantly in terms of both adding to customer appeal and hitting New Vehicle Emissions Standard targets.

The current CX-5 comes only with naturally aspirated and turbo-petrol engines – the gutsy turbo-diesel was recently axed.

“With the new vehicle efficiency standard coming into effect from January 1 and fines from July 1, what we are seeing in the market is the trend toward hybrid,” Bhindi said

“We will have our CX-5 full hybrid arriving in the next generation that will help us.”

Despite its age, the CX-5 remains Mazda Australia’s top-selling vehicle and since the first-generation launched in 2012 – and the second replaced it in 2017 – it has played a key role in the Japanese brand’s presence near the top of the local sales charts.

As of the end of October 2024 it sits in third place in the mainstream medium SUV standings, which is Australia’s biggest sales segment, behind only the Mitsubishi Outlander and dominant RAV4, which is only offered as a hybrid nowadays.

Asked if the next CX-5 would retain its top-selling tole, Bhindi said: “If the segment opportunities remain the same then it should.

“CX-5 in terms of a model nameplate and offering from Mazda globally and not just in Australia is very important.

“It is very important for all major global markets, so when the next one comes out you’ll see it, drive it, test it.

“The idea is it still does very well for us.”

Join the conversation at our Facebook page
Or email us at editor@carsales.com.au