The next iteration of Mazda's top seller has been teased – with sharper styling and some form of hybrid assistance – ahead of its global debut next Thursday.
The next-generation 2026 Mazda CX-5 is due to be revealed next Thursday, July 10, ahead of an expected Australian arrival at the end of this year, or early next year.
Mazda has released the first official images of the new CX-5 family SUV, which is tipped to be larger than today's model, and introduce Toyota-like 'full hybrid' power for the first time.
It seems there may be a wait for that hybrid technology, however, as teaser images released by Mazda show an 'e-SkyActiv-G' badge on the tailgate that indicates it will launch in Europe with a lesser mild-hybrid system.
Unlike a Toyota RAV4 Hybrid – or the full CX-5 hybrid due by 2027 – the technology cannot drive the wheels on electric power alone, and in the current CX-5, only delivers a minor fuel saving on paper.
It is unclear if this technology will come to Australia – and if other engines in the current range, including the 2.5-litre turbo-petrol, will continue into the new model.
The CX-5 will be the first Mazda with the company's in-house hybrid system, expected to combine an electric motor with its next-generation 'SkyActiv-Z' petrol engine for greater fuel savings and lower emissions.
The teaser images show little of the CX-5's styling that wasn't already known from spy photos of prototypes testing overseas – and a recent leaked image – with fresh styling inspired by Mazda's larger SUV range, spanning the CX-60 to CX-90.
'MAZDA' script replaces the brand's logo on the tailgate, while the vehicle shown appears to be a near-top-of-the-range variant akin to today's SP, with black exterior trim.
A media release published by Mazda promises a "sharper design" and "more spacious, uncluttered cabin", in line with reports of a growth spurt for the new model.
It says the new vehicle will also offer "advanced, human-centric technology," expected to entail a new interior with larger screens and additional convenience features.
More details of the 2026 Mazda CX-5 are due closer to its global reveal at 6:00pm AEST next Thursday, July 10.
Alex Misoyannis has been writing about cars since 2017, when he started his own website, Redline. He contributed for Drive in 2018, before joining CarAdvice in 2019, becoming a regular contributing journalist within the news team in 2020. Cars have played a central role throughout Alex’s life, from flicking through car magazines at a young age, to growing up around performance vehicles in a car-loving family. Highly Commended - Young Writer of the Year 2024 (Under 30) Rising Star Journalist, 2024 Winner Scoop of The Year - 2024 Winner
