Excitement is in the air as the first images of the much-anticipated third-generation Mazda CX-5 have made their way onto the internet! While the quality might be less than stellar, these glimpses give us an electrifying sneak peek at an SUV that boasts an athletic and sophisticated new design. The current CX-5 has been around for almost a decade now. With that long legacy, it was only a matter of time before Mazda unveiled a groundbreaking new model. With these images surfacing, it’s clear that the official reveal is just around the corner, and the automotive world can hardly contain its enthusiasm!
You may glance at the images and momentarily think this is merely a refreshed version of its predecessor. After all, the two models possess strikingly similar proportions—a detail our keen-eyed spy photographers identified earlier this year when they caught a prototype hitting the roads. However, the fresh CX-5 is set to make a statement all its own. Look closely at the front end; the grille design and the arrangement of the lights reflect the modern aesthetics also seen on the new Mazda 6e saloon and the upcoming CX-6e SUV concept. While those two models are electric, the new CX-5 will embrace a hybrid powertrain. Its grille sports a more open design, complemented by a bumper that features enhanced air intakes to boost performance and efficiency. Just like its predecessor, the new CX-5 will proudly showcase robust wheelarch extensions along with a long, sleek bonnet that contributes to its sporty vibe. However, the sculpted bumper enhances the vehicle’s road presence, giving it a bolder and more assertive stance.
While the solitary leaked image might not unveil all its secrets, our spies have gathered intriguing insights! The upcoming CX-5 will sport a noteworthy twin-exit exhaust system, a hallmark of Mazda's internal combustion lineup, alongside a sleek horizontal rear light cluster reminiscent of the CX-80 SUV. But let’s not forget the interior, which takes cues from the cutting-edge 6e electric saloon. Picture this: a gigantic 37-centimetre touchscreen positioned prominently on the dashboard, revolutionizing the way you interact with your vehicle—though of course, it’s possible this feature might undergo changes in the final production model.
As we delve deeper into what lies ahead for the new CX-5, the introduction of a hybrid powertrain comes as no surprise. This strategic move aligns with industry trends, as competitors like the Kia Sportage, Toyota RAV4, and Hyundai Tucson have already fully embraced electrification. While official technical specifications remain under wraps, we do know that Mazda has engineered its very own hybrid powertrain designed specifically for this dynamic SUV. Moreover, the anticipation doesn’t stop there; a plug-in hybrid variant of the CX-5 seems likely, considering that Mazda's recent models—the CX-60 and the spacious seven-seater CX-80—are equipped with this exciting technology. However, enthusiasts hoping for a zero-emissions version will have to wait. Mazda is gearing up to launch the fully electric CX-6e in 2027, aiming to take on formidable contenders like the Tesla Model Y and other market leaders.
The unveiling of the new Mazda CX-5 is poised to shake up the mid-size family SUV segment. What we've seen so far hints at a blend of style, performance, and innovation. Mazda seems committed to not just keeping pace but setting the standard in this competitive landscape. Stay tuned as we eagerly await the full reveal of this remarkable SUV that promises to combine practicality with excitement, making every journey an unforgettable experience!