MAZDA SA TEASES THE NEXT-GEN CX-5 WHILE BACKING THE CURRENT BESTSELLER.
The all-new Mazda CX-5 is on the horizon, and anticipation is quietly building among South African fans of the brand. First revealed globally earlier this year, the upcoming model promises notable updates across design, comfort, technology, and safety. But while the spotlight starts to shift toward what’s next, Mazda Southern Africa is keen to remind customers that the current CX-5 is still very much in its prime - and still very much worth your attention.
Mazda SA’s Head of Marketing and Communications, Deolinda Da Costa, explains:
“The next-generation CX-5 marks a significant milestone for Mazda globally. While we look forward to introducing it locally, we’re equally committed to delivering outstanding value and features with our current lineup.”
The new CX-5 is expected to touch down in South Africa in the second half of 2026, though final launch dates are still being firmed up. When it arrives, local customers can expect a 2.5-litre petrol variant tailored to local driving needs and conditions. While mild-hybrid models will be available in global markets, Mazda SA is focused on offering a robust, proven powertrain that suits the South African lifestyle - a move that prioritises performance, reliability, and fuel efficiency over gimmickry.
The CX-5 first debuted in 2012 as Mazda’s first vehicle built entirely on the brand’s SKYACTIV platform - an all-encompassing engineering philosophy that balanced lightness, rigidity, efficiency, and driving engagement. It was also the first Mazda to showcase the brand’s now-signature “KODO – Soul of Motion” design language. Since then, the CX-5 has quietly become one of Mazda’s global success stories. With over 3 million units sold worldwide and a string of awards under its belt, it’s not just a stylish SUV - it’s a cornerstone of the Mazda lineup. In South Africa, it has struck a chord with buyers looking for something more engaging than the average compact SUV. Solid build quality, premium finishes, and that unique Jinba Ittai driver-focused character have helped the CX-5 remain one of the most compelling choices in its class.
Globally, the new CX-5 takes everything that worked and turns it up a notch. Key highlights include: a bolder, more refined design with a reworked grille, new sculpted body lines, and the latest Mazda badging - Improved interior space and comfort, including increased rear legroom and better sound insulation - An upgraded Human Machine Interface (HMI) for more intuitive control of infotainment, navigation, and vehicle functions - Enhanced driver assistance tech, with local specifications to be confirmed closer to launch.
But even with the next-gen buzz building, Mazda SA is doubling down on the current CX-5 as a premium offering in its own right. From a full-colour Head-Up Display to confident handling and standout aesthetics, the SUV continues to punch above its weight. Add in Mazda’s comprehensive 5-year Unlimited Kilometre Warranty, Service Plan, and Roadside Assistance, and you’ve got a package that’s hard to argue with. For those torn between buying now or waiting for the new generation, Mazda Assured offers a neat solution. The brand’s flexible finance plan gives customers the opportunity to get into a current CX-5 today and seamlessly upgrade to the next-generation version down the line. That’s forward-thinking peace of mind - Mazda style.
As Da Costa concludes: “We’re enthusiastic about the future, but equally confident in the value our current CX-5 provides. Whether customers are ready to purchase now or prefer to wait for the next generation, Mazda has a solution to meet their needs.”
Take a look at the YouTube video from the chaps at Mazda down under who, just like the sun rise, get some new motoring models first - like the all-new Mazda CX-5. It's pretty rad, this thing: Unveiling The All-New 2025 Mazda CX-5 | Mazda Austrailia
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